Research Specialist

• Operate, maintain, adjust and/or modify equipment to support department academic, research, and extension activities.
• Construct and maintain field trials and maintain field plots to facilitate field restoration studies, tours, and field days at demonstration sites.
• Collect data and monitor data quality and accuracy as required by the research protocol.
• Maintain appropriate documentation of research results, as required by the research protocol.
• Recommends revisions to experimental methods based on observations of the data.
• Coordinate with research and extension faculty to provide support for research and demonstration programs, primarily in terms of supporting transportation activities (i.e. hauling equipment and large items).
• Assist with the operation and maintenance of equipment and systems used to plant, cultivate, and harvest biomass.
• Conduct soil and plant tissue sampling activities, including preparation and analysis with little supervision.
• Communicate detailed outcomes and results of research.
• Manage compliance with safety measures and guidelines.
• Assist with material waste disposal and laboratory maintenance.

• The position will also be expected to operate a motor vehicle, farm machinery, and forklift to perform essential job functions.
• This incumbent will need to travel off-site alone to observe research and must independently be able to travel from location to location without reliance on others or the advanced notice that is often required of alternative means of transportation.
• Other duties as assigned.

Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

• Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs frequently and 60-90 lbs occasionally with or without reasonable accommadation.
• Knowledge and ability to adapt work processes and methods based on findings and literature review with limited supervision.
• Coordinates and/or conducts multiple, concurrent assignments or a multi-faceted project.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Variety of previous project work in an agricultural, engineering, or field research setting.

• A valid driver's license is required for travel. NC driver's license is required within 60 days of hire and must be maintained.
• A valid NC Class ACDLis required within 60 days of hire and must be maintained.
• A valid forklift certification is required within 90 days of hire and must be maintained.