Research Technician

Job Category:

University Staff

Temporary (Fixed Term)

Research Technician

The Corn Breeding and Genetics Program within the Department of Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is seeking two motivated and detail-oriented Field Research Technicians to support critical corn breeding research activities at the West Madison Agricultural Research Station. These temporary positions will play an important role in advancing research efforts through corn hand harvesting, phenotyping, and seed and sample processing activities.
These appointments are expected to begin in mid-to-late September 2026 and continue through approximately December 15, 2026, with flexibility in both start and end dates. While they are temporary positions, there may be an opportunity for extension based on program needs. Please note that appointments are limited to a maximum of 1,040 hours within a 12-month period. Interested candidates will be needed for up to 40 hours per week with the opportunity for somewhat flexible scheduling.
The ideal candidate is highly organized, dependable, and capable of managing multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced research environment. Strong time management, prioritization, and accurate recordkeeping skills are essential. Experience working outdoors, particularly in agricultural, research, or field-based settings, is preferred. Candidates must be able to perform the physical requirements of agricultural fieldwork, including prolonged walking and standing on uneven terrain, and lifting, carrying, and moving materials weighing up to 50 pounds.

Successful candidates will demonstrate effective communication and problem-solving abilities, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a diverse research team. A willingness to learn and contribute to high-quality research outcomes is highly valued.

• May assist with literature reviews and/or report writing
• Performs lab and/or field test materials and samples according to established research requirements and specifications. Performs lab or field tests
• Reviews data to summarize results for presentations or reporting
• Collects data and monitors test results according to established research requirements and specifications
• Inspects and maintains equipment, supplies, inventory, and facility spaces

College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences, De Leon Gatti Research Program

The rate of pay for this position is $20.00 per hour.

• Proven ability to prepare and maintain records with accuracy
• Demonstrated track record of following established procedures or protocols
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a diverse research team
• Employee must have a valid driver's license and become an approved driver through UW-Madison's driver authorization process. This requires meeting established driver authorization criteria listed at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

• Experience conducting plant-related research
• Experience conducting field work in adverse weather conditions

Bachelor's degree preferred in plant sciences, agronomy, or closely related field

Madeilene Hoffman | HR Generalist fman

Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See  for further information

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.

To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodation for any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR) in the…