What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Assistant I *Havre, MT position at Montana State University?
Assist with trial management and data collection for precision agriculture research conducted both on- and off-station near Havre, MT. The successful applicant will actively participate in all aspects of the precision agriculture program, including but not limited to, planning, designing, and executing research trials.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Drive university vehicles to field sites for sample collection (soil, insects, and plant material).
- Collect and record field and laboratory research data.
- Conduct efficacy evaluations for precision herbicide application tools.
- Assist with livestock-related precision agriculture initiatives.
- Collect and record field and laboratory research data.
- Maintain lab organization, inventory, and equipment; ensure compliance with safety protocols.
- Collaborate with students and researchers on ongoing projects in the lab.
- Contribute to extension and outreach activities, such as workshops, field days, and demonstrations.
Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
- High school education.
- Experience with Windows and MS Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
- Experience in chemical mixing and application for small plot research.
- Experience working in outdoor agricultural environments and general crop/livestock management.
The Successful Candidate Will
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, particularly with farmers, ranchers, and agricultural professionals.
- Demonstrate excellent organizational and time-management skills.
- Be proactive and adaptable, with a strong attention to detail.
- Exhibit strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
- Be passionate about improving agricultural practices and sustainability.
Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
Continuation of employment is contingent upon availability of funding.
- Ability to obtain a Montana Government Pesticide Applicators License within 6 months of hire.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license, an acceptable driving record, and meet all State of Montana requirements to operate State/University vehicles. (If successful candidate possesses a valid out-of-state driver’s license, must obtain a valid Montana driver’s license within 60 days of hire.)
This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Physical Demands
- Be able to work around dust and pesticides.
- Work in extreme weather conditions.
- Being able to enter, exit and operate numerous types of research and farm equipment unassisted.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
This position has supervisory duties?
No
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies
1
Desired Start Date
Upon completion of a successful search
Position End Date (if temporary)
Open Date
Close Date
Applications will be:
Screening of applications will begin on March 19, 2025; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
Special Instructions
EEO Statement
Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.
In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.
In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.
