Field Research Specialist

Job Description

This position provides support to the Plant Pathology Program at the Virginia Tech Tidewater Agricultural Research and Extension Center; and more broadly provides support to TAREC administration as needed. The Plant Pathology Program is responsible for research, implementation and information delivery of disease management strategies in agronomic crops in the Commonwealth. Current and ongoing research projects include fungicide efficacy testing, fungicide program testing, nematicide and fumigant testing, evaluation of disease and nematode-resistant varieties, precision placement of fungicides and nematicides, effects of irrigation and fertility on plant diseases, and weather-based disease monitoring systems.

Duties include field work with agronomic crop field trials on and off-station, maintenance of field plots and greenhouse experiments, irrigation design and management, application of experimental treatments such as fungicides and nematicides, collection of data and maintenance of accurate records of assigned duties including pesticide application records, handling and application of agricultural chemicals for field plot maintenance, planting and harvesting of research plots, hauling field research equipment and general maintenance of equipment, vehicles and facilities in the Plant Pathology Program/TAREC.

This position is also expected to be a part of a two-person team with the program lab manager:
1) developing trial protocols and carrying out protocol activities;
2) co-supervising part-time staff; and
3) setting up, taking down and participating in educational events at the Center and other regional events. The successful candidate must communicate and work closely with TAREC’s Farm Manager and Assistant Farm Manager. While rare, some overnight travel may be necessary on an annual basis.

Relevant experience and education in agronomic crop and/or vegetable production. Experience in operating agricultural equipment, work in agricultural settings during all growing seasons, and ability to handle strenuous labor. Must have or obtain a registered technician or category 1A and 10 pesticide applicators license (within 3 months of start date) and a Commercial Drivers License (within 6 months of start date).

Associates degree or B.S. and/or relevant experience and education with field plot maintenance, application of pesticides, design and data collection; experience with small plot agricultural research and pesticide application. Experience identifying plant diseases, insects and weeds.

3

Non-Exempt:
Eligible for overtime

Regular

$40,000-$46,000 (Commensurate with Experience)

40

March 26, 2026; open until filled

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact David Langston at vegpath during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.