Substitute Research Assistant

Substitute Research Assistant

The Land Institute co-leads the global movement for perennial, diverse, regenerative grain agriculture at a scale that matches the enormity of the intertwined climate, water, and food security crises. An independent 501c3 non-profit founded in 1976, the organization seeks to reconcile the human economy with nature's economy, starting with food. The transdisciplinary team of scientists, together with global partners, are developing new perennial grain crops, like Kernza©, and diverse cropping systems that function within nature's limits and researching the social transformation required for a just, perennial human future.

Substitute-Status Research Assistants are hired on an as-needed basis to provide short-term or intermittent support when work is available. This role does not have a guaranteed schedule or set number of hours, and work assignments may vary based on organizational needs, timing, or conditions such as weather. Substitute-status positions are hourly and non-exempt and do not automatically convert to regular staff roles.

This position is best suited for individuals who value flexible work, can respond to variable scheduling, and are able to step in reliably when called upon.

The Substitute Research Assistant will assist with research activities, including planting, harvesting, weeding, threshing, plant tissue collection, data entry, dishwashing, and other research support tasks. They will be expected to be able to work indoors and outdoors, doing manual, repetitive tasks for hours at a time. This hourly position allows for flexible scheduling that may be dependent on weather and labor availability.

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

The Land Institute believes each employee makes a significant contribution to our success. Those contributions may be outside of regular duties. It is our expectation that each employee will offer his or her services in a courteous, cooperative, and helpful manner, with a positive attitude and in the spirit of teamwork to ensure the success of our company.

Help researchers conduct field and lab work, which may sometimes involve repetitive tasks or sitting/standing for long periods of time, as well as working in extreme heat. Follow field and lab safety procedures and voice any safety concerns when warranted. Complete manual, repetitive tasks. Perform fieldwork, including but not limited to collecting data, threshing, weeding, planting, etc.

Must be at least 16 years of age at the start of the position. Minimum education and experience required: none. Minimum licensure or registration required: none. Minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities required:
Ability to develop constructive and cooperative working relationships with others and maintain them over time. Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of variables in situations where some guidance and standardization exist. Ability to follow instructions, including written safety warnings. Legible handwriting and accurate labeling are required skills. Ability and willingness to provide and/or diligently use provided personal health and protective equipment or supplies, including drinking water, sunscreen, shade hat, insect repellent, and shoes and clothing appropriate for fieldwork.

Demonstrate accuracy and thoroughness; look for ways to improve and promote quality. Prioritize and plan work activities; use time effectively. Consistently arrive at work on time; ensure that work responsibilities are covered when absent.

Tasks involve the regular and sustained performance of moderately physically demanding work, often involving some combination of climbing ladders, bending, reaching, standing, operating equipment, working on uneven terrain, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling, and which involves the lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of moderately heavy objects and materials (up to 60 pounds) and occasionally heavy items (up to 100 pounds).

This hourly position allows for flexible scheduling that may be dependent on weather and labor availability. Generally available to work primarily from 8 am to 5 pm Central Time on weekdays when most of our staff and collaborators are working. Some evening and weekend working hours, depending on the needs of the organization.

This role is primarily based in and around Salina, KS, with some travel possible to field stations within Kansas. Compensation and benefits:
The hourly rate pay band for this non-exempt position is $14.00 - $18.00. The Land Institute is an equal opportunity employer and embraces the opportunity to provide employment to qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. We are pleased to provide reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.