Research Station Operations Technician

Salary : $35,525.00 - $45,200.00 Annually

Location : Normal

Job Type : Full-Time

Job Number : 202300255

Department : Winfred Thomas Ag Research Station

Opening Date : 03 / 18 / 2024

Description

Summary :

This is manual work in the performance of semi-skilled farm tasks of a physically demanding nature. Work of this class involves responsibility for performing manual farm work which requires a moderately high degree of manipulative skill. Work ordinarily includes the operation of tractors and other farm equipment. It is performed under the direction of an employee of a higher grade, but constant supervision is not required because of the farm experience of employees in this class. Work is reviewed intermittently while in progress and upon completion for compliance with instructions

Examples of Duties

Essential Duties and Responsibilities :

• Works as semi-skilled farm laborer on an institutional farm; performs duties such as plowing, harrowing, cultivating, fertilizing, irrigating, and harvesting farm crops on assigned plots and acreage.
• Operates a cotton picker, combine, tractor, moving and spraying equipment, chain saws, carry all, front end loader, milking machines, and other common and specialized equipment used in general farming operations.
• Cares for livestock and poultry, including the cleaning, feeding, weighing, and medication of animals; checks animals for sickness and other disorders.
• Mixes soil, sand, and fertilizers according to specifications; prepares insecticide solutions and operates spray equipment on assigned plots and acreage for insect control.
• Changes oil, greases, and makes limited repairs to farm equipment and machinery; assists in the general repair and maintenance of farm buildings.
• This position involves service, set-up, and repair of agricultural equipment both in the shop and in the field. Primary equipment includes, but not limited to, tractors, combines, cotton pickers, lawn equipment, and various other implements and attachments.
• Performs related work as required.
• Research Operation Technicians assist scientists in agriculture and food science to test food quality and agricultural products.
• Prepares and performs various tests on crop or animal samples to test for signs of disease or other issues and then provide information for reports
• Agricultural Technicians work with plants and planting processes perform tests on seeds to evaluate seed viability. They collect and germinate seeds, maintain plant cuttings, and control environmental conditions. Agricultural Technicians transplant trees, vegetables, or other plants. They determine the rate that a plant germinates from seed planted in certain areas.
• These technicians can find themselves performing a range of duties, from maintaining and operating farm machinery to helping in the harvesting of crops. They could also oversee pest and weed control by choosing the best chemicals, determining the methods and schedule of the application of these chemicals. This job is performed in a variety of locations such as a research station, processing plant, laboratory, or an office. An agricultural technician job is best fitted for a person that is detail-oriented and analytical in their thought process. This job also requires a professional to be dependable and ethical.
• Works with agricultural scientists in plant, fiber, and animal research, or assist with animal breeding and nutrition. Set up or maintain laboratory equipment and collect samples from crops or animals.

Typical Qualifications

Minimum Position Requirements (including certifications, licenses, etc.) :

Supplemental Information

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities :

Knowledge of practical farm operations, such as plowing, planting, irrigation, fertilizing, cultivating, and harvesting of crops is a must. It is of utmost importance that technicians minimize downtime, ensure equipment runs efficiently, and optimize production.

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short and long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.

To learn more details, visit our benefits page at

Do you have demonstrated experience in farming including the operation of tractors and other farm equipment; or any equivalent combination of training and experience?

Do you have 1- 3 years' experience related to the duties and responsibilities?

Do you have a high school diploma or equivalency?

Required Question

Salary : $35,525 - $45,200