Temporary Research Technician

Temporary Research Technician

Duties include:

• Processing large numbers of arthropod samples under the stereoscope.
• Identifying and recording numbers of major insect and mite pests of small fruit crops.
• Labeling and organizing arthropod samples.
• Assisting with greenhouse and field collection of arthropod samples.
• Assisting with fieldwork involving the excavation and uprooting of blueberry plants from research plots approximately 2–3 times per month, primarily under outdoor field conditions and direct sunlight.
• Performing physically demanding field work that requires prolonged standing, bending, kneeling, digging, and working in variable weather conditions.
• Safely operating heavy-duty hand tools and field equipment, including shovels, hammers, axes, pruning shears, heavy-duty scissors, sharpened cutting tools, and chainsaws, while following all laboratory and field safety procedures.
• Opening and processing plant root masses in the laboratory to extract, collect, and document beetle larvae using hand tools and following established laboratory protocols.

Schedule:

35-40 hours per week, 8 am-5 pm with 1 hour lunch break. Fieldwork days may be longer 10-11-hour days (1-3 days per week, 1-2 times per month).

Requirements and Preferences:

• Work Schedule - 35-40/hrs per week
• Minimum Experience/Education
  - Combination of training and experience required to perform the duties
• Department Required Skills
  - Experience processing large numbers of arthropod samples
• Experience with identifying and recording numbers of major insect and mite pests of small fruit crops
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs.

Required License or Certification
- Valid driver's license

Valid NC Driver's License required? - Yes

Commercial Driver's License Required? - No

Recruitment Details:

• Anticipated Hiring Range - $16.50/hr
• Job Open Date - 08/13/2026

EEO - NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact  to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.