What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Field Technician - WCRC-GV position at Colorado State University?
Classification Title
Temporary Hourly
Employment Category
Temporary
Is this an Hourly position?
Yes
Work Hours/Week
20-30
Overtime Eligible?
Yes
Position Location
Fruita, CO
Does this position qualify for hybrid or remote work?
No
Description of Work Unit
The Western Colorado Research Center (WCRC) consists of three research farms that collaborate to advance knowledge in the agricultural, biological, soil, and water-related sciences, while also promoting regional engagement in community development, food systems, and natural resources projects. The three sites are: Orchard Mesa (Grand Junction, CO), Rogers Mesa (Hotchkiss, CO), and Grand Valley (Fruita, CO).
The WCRC-Grand Valley (GV) is located northeast of Fruita, CO. Research at the WCRC-GV addresses challenges associated with conserving and efficiently using agricultural water. WCRC-GV also supports studies of integrated cropping systems, reduced tillage operations, cover crops, single-season inter-cropping, and research on alternative crops and forages.
The position will be based at WCRC-GV in Fruita, CO.
Search Contact Email
sri.pinnamaneni@colostate.edu
Position Summary
The Agricultural Research Field Technician will be supported by various projects funded by the Colorado Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, The Colorado Water Center, the Colorado Water Conservation Board, and Trout Unlimited.
PURPOSE OF POSITION: To provide assistance to WCRC-GV and its partners in the evaluation of alfalfa, alfalfa/grass/legume mixtures, and corn cultivars for deficit irrigation, forage sample collection, processing, soil sampling, water sample collection in lysimeters, irrigation and evapotranspiration data collection, crop yields, soil assessments, weed management, preliminary data analysis, equipment maintenance and other tasks associated with various research projects.
PURPOSE OF POSITION: To provide assistance to WCRC-GV and its partners in the evaluation of alfalfa, alfalfa/grass/legume mixtures, and corn cultivars for deficit irrigation, forage sample collection, processing, soil sampling, water sample collection in lysimeters, irrigation and evapotranspiration data collection, crop yields, soil assessments, weed management, preliminary data analysis, equipment maintenance and other tasks associated with various research projects.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND RELATIONSHIPS: The Research Field Technician will be supervised by Dr. Sri Pinnamaneni at the WCRC-GV. WCRC-GV staff and farmer stakeholders supporting the project will provide additional guidance for the position. The position requires effective working relations with agricultural and environmental stakeholders.
Position Minimum Qualifications
- Completed or pursuing a degree in Natural Resources Management, Biology, Soil and Crop Sciences, or closely related fields.
- Willingness to collect samples/data in field experiments.
- Ability to communicate (public speaking and writing skills)
- Expertise with basic spreadsheet data (i.e., MS Excel)
- Willingness to learn to work with basic vendor-supplied programs and other data management software unique to field equipment.
- Willingness to collaborate in a team environment on a multitude of tasks that may change and diversify weekly
- Ability to lift 30 lbs
- Must have a valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience in research farms
- Experience with data recording, handling sensors, and analysis
Posting Details
Working Title
Research Field Technician - WCRC-GV
Posting Number
202500082T
Department
Western Colorado Research Center
Salary Range
$18-$20 per hour
Employee Benefits
Visit CSU’s Human Resources website for detailed benefit plan information for temporary employees in the following University benefit areas: https://hr.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2021/02/benefits-summary-hourly.pdf
Close Date
02/25/2025
Special Instructions to Applicants
Apply by emailing your current resume to: sri.pinnamaneni@colostate.edu. Please also include contact information for 1 to 3 references. References will not be contacted without prior notification to the applicant.
Background Check Policy Statement
Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.
EEO Statement
Colorado State University is committed to providing an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based on race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or pregnancy and will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. Colorado State University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and Colorado State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. The Office of Equal Opportunity is located in 101 Student Services.
The Acting Title IX Coordinator is the Vice President for Equity, Equal Opportunity and Title IX, 123 Student Services Building, Fort Collins, CO. 80523-0160, (970) 491-1715, titleix@colostate.edu.
The Section 504 and ADA Coordinator is the Vice President for Equity, Equal Opportunity and Title IX, 101 Student Services Building, Fort Collins, CO 80523-0160, (970) 491-5836.
The Acting Title IX Coordinator is the Vice President for Equity, Equal Opportunity and Title IX, 123 Student Services Building, Fort Collins, CO. 80523-0160, (970) 491-1715, titleix@colostate.edu.
The Section 504 and ADA Coordinator is the Vice President for Equity, Equal Opportunity and Title IX, 101 Student Services Building, Fort Collins, CO 80523-0160, (970) 491-5836.
Diversity Statement
Ability to advance the department’s commitment to diversity and inclusion through research, teaching and outreach with relevant programs, goals and activities.
Essential Job Duties
Job Duty Category
Research Field Support
Duty/Responsibility
- Assist with establishing research trials
- Plot planting, weeding, maintenance
- Data collection
- Research equipment operation and maintenance
- Sample processing
Percentage Of Time
100%
References
Minimum References Required
3
Maximum References Required
3
Salary : $18 - $20
