Cotton Research Technician- Tifton Campus

Cotton Research Technician
- Tifton Campus

The Research Technician position will be under the Assistant Dean's Office based at the University of Georgia Tifton Campus. At appointment, the person in this position will assist with research that focuses on all aspects of cotton production and improvement. The primary focus of current research projects is to support cotton breeding, germplasm development, cultivar evaluation, and agronomic programs and initiatives.

This position will also provide assistance, as needed, to other research areas related to cotton improvement and production. This role will involve collaborating with and assisting researchers, graduate students, technicians, and student workers to achieve program objectives and support ongoing research activities.

General responsibilities include supporting field, greenhouse, and laboratory research activities for the cotton breeding program through the establishment, management, and evaluation of research trials. Duties include coordinating crop production activities such as planting, irrigation, fertilization, pest management, harvesting, and seed processing; collecting and managing research data; operating and maintaining research equipment and vehicles; coordinating with farm personnel and research staff; and assisting with the implementation of breeding, genetics, and germplasm evaluation projects.

The position also involves maintaining accurate records, supporting inventory and land management activities, and ensuring compliance with applicable safety and operational procedures while contributing to the overall success of the cotton research program.

Knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies include good written and verbal communication skills, working knowledge of Microsoft Office software, competency in calibrating sprayers, fertilizer applicators, and related math skills, competency in crop management, basic mechanical, welding and carpentry skills, understanding and appreciation of the precision necessary for agricultural research, and ability to maintain research and farm implements for optimum operation.

Physical demands include lifting 50 lb items repeatedly in the heat, operating farm equipment, bending over, walking, climbing repeatedly for long hours, working outside in dusty, hot, humid conditions all day, and driving as needed to perform job duties.

Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes. Is this a position of trust? Yes. Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No. Does this position require a P-Card? No. Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No. Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?

No. Does this position have security access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications)? Yes.

Credit and P-Card policy:
Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy:
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check.

You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties/Responsibilities:
Prepare and maintain research plots. Support routine crop management activities, including irrigation, fertilization, weed control, and other practices necessary to maintain research trials. Collect, record, and maintain research data and observations from field and greenhouse activities. Travel to support planting, maintenance, and harvesting activities at…