What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Assistant II *Havre, MT position at Montana State University?
Assist with trial management and data collection from crop research on- and off-station, near Havre, MT. The successful applicant will be an active participant in all facets of the variety testing program including, but not limited to planning, design, and execution of field crop trials.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Collect and record field and laboratory research data.
- Operate and maintain lab equipment including barcode scanners, grinding mills, NIR and Falling Number machine.
- Maintain weed free research plots and trials.
- Enter data, assist with reports and presentations utilizing Windows and MS Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Operate plot scale field equipment including tractors, seeders forage harvesters and combines.
- Manage and stock lab and field supplies as needed.
- Load, mix, and apply pesticides to research trials.
- Manage and oversee multiple seasonal and temporary employees.
Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
- High school education.
- Experience collecting and recording agronomic field and laboratory research data.
- Experience operating and maintaining scientific lab equipment including balances, barcode scanners, grinding mills, NIR and falling number machine.
- Experience with Windows and MS Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Experience with dryland crops common to Montana.
- Currently possess or obtain a Montana Government Pesticide Applicators License including the Ag Plant Pest endorsement within 6 months of hire date
- Currently possess a valid US driver’s license
Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
- Experience safely operating plot scale field equipment including tractors, combines, seeders and forage harvester.
- Experience with Trimble Auto-Steer, or similar automated steering system.
- Experience safely loading and securing equipment for transport, and towing trailers on the highway, through towns and on dirt farm roads.
The Successful Candidate Will
- Outstanding communication skills, both written and oral, as a leader and a coworker.
- Be a team player.
- Detail oriented with excellent record keeping skills.
- Make appropriate decisions in the absence of other leadership.
- Self-directed.
Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
- Continuation of employment is contingent upon availability of funding.
- Evenings and/or weekend work will be required as dictated by season, weather, and deadlines.
- Must currently possess or obtain a Montana Government Pesticide Applicator’s License including the Ag Plant Pest endorsement within 6 months of date 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
- Repetitive movements and standing, bending, or squatting for extensive periods of time.
- Be able to work around dust, pollen-bearing plants and pesticides.
- Work in in extreme weather conditions.
- Being able to enter, exit and operate numerous types of research and farm equipment unassisted.
- Work around loud machinery is required.
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?
Yes
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 January 31, 2025; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
Special Instructions
To apply, please upload the following documents:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- Contact information for three (3) references, including direct supervisors
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.
