Research Technician Field and Lab Operations,Soil Science Job Saskatoon area,Saskatchewan Canada,Science

Research Technician Field and Lab Operations, Soil Science

Primary

Purpose:

The Data‑Driven Innovations with Geospatial Soil Science (DIGSS) research program is seeking a full‑time Research Technician to support field research and laboratory operations. The DIGSS team focuses on understanding soil properties and soil–landscape processes in marginal agricultural areas and wetland environments across the Prairies. Ongoing projects are examining how management practices and environmental factors influence soil variability, greenhouse gas emissions, and long‑term soil carbon storage.

Nature of Work: The successful candidate will support field sampling, laboratory workflows, and the training of undergraduate and graduate researchers to generate high‑quality data. Work occurs in both field and laboratory environments and involves physical activity, including lifting up to 25 kg. Training will be provided for all laboratory and field procedures, safety protocols, and equipment operation. The technician will report directly to Dr.

Chizen and will work closely with members of the DIGSS research team. Travel to field sites and occasional overtime, including evenings and weekends, will be required at peak periods, particularly before seeding (April/May) and after harvest (September/October).

Key Responsibilities:

Coordinate with the DIGSS research team to ensure efficient scheduling of laboratory activities, sample processing, and field operations

Support day‑to‑day laboratory operations, including soil sample intake and organization, maintaining the laboratory workspace, ordering supplies, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols

Assist with field work to collect soil samples

Maintain detailed records of laboratory procedures, observations, and data

Support Dr. Chizen in training undergraduate and graduate students in laboratory methods, field sampling techniques, equipment use, and data collection protocols

Education and Experience:

Master’s degree in soil science, environmental science, or a related field; OR Bachelor’s or Diploma degree in soil science, environmental science, or a related field with previous field work and/or laboratory experience

Experience with soil science sample processing and laboratory analyses

Experience conducting field work in an agricultural or environmental context.

Licenses and

Certifications:

Candidates must hold a valid class 5 driver’s license. Candidates should have or be willing to obtain WHMIS, First Aid, and CPR training.

Skills and

Competencies:

Strong organizational and time‑management skills, with the ability to coordinate multiple tasks and field activities

Effective written and verbal communication skills in English

Ability to work independently and in team settings with students and researchers

Competency in data handling, including accurate documentation and management of field and laboratory datasets

Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high data quality standards

Problem‑solving skills and adaptability to dynamic project needs and field conditions

Proficiency with data analysis tools (, R, Python) are considered an asset

Proficiency with GIS (, QGIS) is considered an asset


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