Research Technician

Job Title

Research Technician I

Texas A&M Agrilife Research

Amarillo

Bushland, Texas

Staff

This is an hourly paid position. Compensation is commensurate with the selected candidate’s qualifications.

• Knowledge of the basic concepts, principles, and techniques in agriculture, and greenhouse operations.
• Collect samples and measurement data from experiments; implement and maintain data collection and summarization of greenhouse and field trials.
• Collect and compile data; compute quantities and extend projections.
• Assemble and operate technical equipment.
• Assist senior staff members in conducting major field experiments and consult in developing procedures.
• Conduct insect transmission/biological assays and high tunnel/field experiments under hot conditions, insect colony maintenance, plant or insect tissue preparation, nucleic acid extraction.
• Independently pursue an assigned series of processes, procedures, or area of research in accordance with general approved plans and procedures.
• Plan and execute procedures and work details.
• Construct, modify, adapt, assemble, and operate scientific and laboratory apparatus and equipment.
• Use computer equipment for controlling equipment and compiling data.
• Research and catalog reference materials.
• Plan and supervise technical operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or equivalent, or a combination of education and experience.
• Two years of related experience.
• Knowledge of high tunnel/field equipment, greenhouse, and farm operations.
• Attention to detail.
• Able to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Experience and expertise working in greenhouses, high tunnels, or field cultivation of vegetable crops, horticultural farm operations.
• Experience working with insect pests or plant diseases.

• Ability to lift moderately heavy objects and exert heavy force.
• Willingness to work beyond normal business hours and/or work on weekends.

• Health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance, with Texas A&M Agrilife contributing to employee health and basic life premiums.
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays.
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month.
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
• Employee Wellness Initiative.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.