Irrigation Research Agronomist

Description & Details:

The individual in this position will be responsible for leading and conducting the Agronomic Research Program at the Williston Research Extension Center (WREC). The incumbent will collaborate closely with other research agronomists at the center, with a strong emphasis on irrigated crop research. This represents the largest research program on the station, providing critical information to support crop production and cultivar development in northwest North Dakota.

The ideal candidate will continue to help develop a regionally and nationally recognized applied crop production and agronomic research program for northwest North Dakota by disseminating research findings, fostering collaboration and providing leadership to support program success. The ability to operate, maintain, and repair field equipment, irrigation equipment and laboratory equipment to ensure a safe and reliable research program is needed.

Scope of work includes chemical applications and a seasonal outdoor working environment.

Work Schedule

Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 4:30pm. During planting and harvest season there will be longer days in the field

Hiring Range: $70,000.00 to $90,000.00 DOE

Pay is based on several factors, including budget, labor market, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and/or certification and other business considerations.

Minimum Qualifications:

Master of Science degree in an Agriculture related field

Experience in applied agronomic research such as crop management, cultivar evaluation, irrigation, or weed management.

Demonstrated ability to collect, manage, and analyze field research data.

Effective written and oral communication skills, including evidence of presenting research findings or extension information.

Proficiently and safely operate field, irrigation and laboratory equipment.

Ability to work independently and as a part of a multi-disciplinary team.

North Dakota Commercial Pesticide Applicator License; or the ability to obtain one.

Valid U.S. driver's license; or the ability to obtain one.

Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to all listed minimum requirements, preferred qualifications are:

Ph.D. in an Agricultural related field

Experience conducting field research under semi-arid or northern Great Plains conditions

Experience operating, maintaining, repairing, and calibrating field, irrigation, and laboratory equipment to include:
Tractors, planters, combines, chemical sprayers, irrigation systems and lab instruments.

Demonstrated success in securing competitive research funding or grants

Experience in statistical analysis and use of data management software such as R, SAS or similar.

Record of peer-reviewed or extension publications

Experience collaborating with the Ag Industry, producers and/or Extension personnel

Supervisory or mentoring experience with research staff or students

Experience managing research budgets or field operations

Core Competencies:

Experience in applied agronomic research such as crop management, cultivar evaluation, irrigation, or weed management

Demonstrated ability to collect, manage, and analyze field research data

Effective written and oral communication skills, including evidence of presenting research findings or extension information

The ability to work independently and as a part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Applicant Materials Required

Please submit a cover letter and resume detailing your experience and desire to be an Irrigation Research Agronomist in northwest North Dakota.

Screening will begin 3/10/26 and will be open until filled

NDSU OFFERS EXCELLENT BENEFITS!

Full time employees are eligible for the following benefits:

Health Insurance coverage with 100% of the premium paid for by NDSU for Single or Family Plan

Option of a PPO/Basic Plan or High Deductible Health Plan with Health Savings Account

Benefits begin the first of the month following date of hire

Wellness benefits are included for healthy lifestyle participation

Superb Retirement Plan

Employer Contributions range from 7.5% - 12.26% based on position

Basic Term Life Insurance

Tuition Waivers for Employee (three classes per calendar year)

Tuitions Waivers for Spouse/Partner & Dependents (eligible for 50% waiver)

Paid Leave - including Annual leave, Sick Leave and 10 paid Holidays

Employee Assistance Program

Optional benefits include:
Supplemental Life, Dental, Vision, Long-term care insurance, Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care) and Supplemental Retirement Plans

More Detailed Information Here:
Benefits | Human Resources | NDSU

About Us:

North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student focused, land-grant, research university. We educate leaders who solve national and global challenges by providing affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.

NDSU is in the highest Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, R1, granted to the top research institutions in the country.

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