Research Technician Farm Operations

Job Type

Full-time

Description

Vision Bioenergy Oilseeds (VBO) is a agricultural joint venture with the mission of developing, growing and marketing high quality oilseed oil for use in the production of biofuels to help create a cleaner, more sustainable future. We operate a research & development center and processing facility in Nampa, Idaho.

The Research Technician will ensure the Research Station, functions efficiently by performing a variety of duties to maintain and operate the facilities, equipment and farmland. Supports the Station Manager and other scientists on station with scheduling and resourcing research activities and ensuring efficient, functional execution of research activities. Support off-station field plot location growing activities. Primary crops under development include camelina and other oilseeds crops for the renewables energy markets and dietary supplement for livestock feeding markets.

The successful candidate will have:

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture preferred, or up to 5 years of related ag production or field research experience.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an Idaho Private Applicator License (within 3 months of hire).
• Experience with agricultural practices including soil and irrigation management, fertility, weed control, and safe equipment operation.
• Proficiency operating field equipment (e.g., tractors, planters, sprayers, harvesters) and ability to work with GPS/electronic controls.
• Basic equipment and facility maintenance skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and willingness to learn internal systems.
• Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
• Ability to work extended hours during the growing season (April-September), including rotating weekends; occasional evenings, weekends, overnight work, and travel.

We offer a competitive salary, $60K - $75K, based on an individual's experience and skill level, and an above average benefits package including medical, dental, vision, health and dependent flexible spending accounts, health-savings account, company-paid short-term and long-term disability, company-paid life insurance & accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D), voluntary life insurance & accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D), voluntary critical illness and voluntary accident insurance, employee assistance program, 401K/401K Roth with company match, and bonus opportunity program.

MORE DETAILED RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct experiments, to completion, according to specific procedures, exercising independent judgment and discretion as appropriate.
• Maintain healthy plants, collect accurate and timely data.
• Maintain, organize and summarize results of experiments, noting problem areas, while recommending actions to be taken within standard procedures.
• Organize and supervise work of temporary employees and station regular employees ensuring work is performed in safe and efficient manner.
• Interact with state, local and federal authorities to ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
• Manage field plot rotation, field plot health, and timely management for all plots.
• Assist in conducting experiments at other research sites, laboratory areas, or groups.
• Maintain appropriate inventory of chemicals and/or supplies necessary for the completion of experiments at work location.
• Troubleshoot plant or mechanical issues that arise.
• Operation and care of field equipment.
• Operate and maintain irrigation equipment.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.
• Understand and follow all QMS/RMS/HSSE protocols, policies and procedures.
• Ensure that work is performed in a safe and efficient manner.
• Report any accidents, incidents, near misses and hazardous observations to your Supervisor immediately.
• Be proactive about facility care and cleanliness.

Requirements

KEY COMPETENCIES:

• Ability to follow research protocols, collect accurate data, maintain records, and use basic math and computer skills to support data entry and analysis.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision and willing to take initiative.
• Demonstrated ability to plan field activities, manage multiple priorities, and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proactive approach to identifying issues, making timely decisions, troubleshooting processes, and adjusting procedures to maintain efficiency and research integrity.
• High degree of comfort working in changing field conditions, shifting schedules, and seasonal demands.
• Ability to train and guide seasonal staff while maintaining positive, professional working relationships across all levels of the organization.
• Communication & Professional Conduct:
  Clear communication with internal and external partners and consistent professional behavior when representing the organization.
• Safety Awareness:
  Commitment to safe work practices and compliance with agricultural, chemical handling, and equipment safety requirements.

EDUCATION/KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in agriculture is preferred, but not required, and/or up to 5 years' industry related…