Research Specialist

Description & Details: Assist in the design, implementation, analysis, and reporting of results from agronomy research at the NDSU, Williston Research Extension Center.

Note: Two positions are available with this posting. Someone with a Master's Degree may also consider an additional posting for a Research Specialist at the NDSU - Williston REC.

Coordinate support for research, trials, and service functions with collaborations at Williston REC.

• Collaborate with NDSU – WREC director to create a positive work environment.
• Inform WREC leadership (scientists and director) of needs and issues to maintain a safe and effective workplace. Contribute to the collaborative development and implementation of WREC research program goals on an annual basis.
• Collaborate with NDSU and WREC colleagues to uphold a productive and impactful research program in the field, laboratory, and office settings.
• Develop and maintain external relationships with stakeholders and collaborators which enable NDUS – WREC to provide greater impacts toward our mission.
• Collaborate with NDSU and WREC faculty and staff in the design, implementation, analysis, and reporting of research findings and impacts.
• Manage NDSU – WREC research assets so they are productive and used appropriately.
• Participate in professional development programs to strengthen the positive leadership techniques exhibited throughout the WREC.
• Collaborate in NDSU – WREC Program Leadership Team as appropriate to identify and develop cross-program needs and suggestions that aid in efficiently and effectively building a positive work environment at the Center.
• Represent NDSU and the WREC in a positive manner to internal and external stakeholders at all times.
• Manage implementation of NDSU and WREC policies and guidelines. This includes timely reporting and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

Supervise direct and indirect staff reports.

• Guide and influence staff toward the ideals of NDSU and the WREC.
• Collaborate with NDSU – WREC director and colleagues to hire, train, retain, and encourage positive staff to grow the effectiveness of WREC research and service functions striving toward the mission of NDSU and the WREC

Work Schedule: 40-hours regularly. Potentially more hours during busy seasons (primarily planting and harvesting). Some additional hours preparing and implementing plans for events.

Advertised Salary: Negotiable depending on qualifications and experience.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Successful completion of a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, Crop Science, Agronomy, or another related field (such as engineering, biology, other agricultural science area).
• Valid U.S. driver’s license or ability to obtain as required by North Dakota State Fleet Policy.
• North Dakota Commercial Pesticide Applicator License or the ability to obtain.

Preferred Qualifications:

Demonstrated experience in field crop research.

Demonstrated experience with operation of farm machinery or equipment.

Prefer those with coursework or practical experience in areas such as agronomy, soil science, crop production, crop physiology, farm machinery, or statistics.

Familiarity with laboratory analyses and ability to use equipment in preparing and analyzing seeds/crops.

Advanced graduate work or degree preferred in agricultural subject matter relevant to Northwest North Dakota.

Core Competencies:

Computer use (literacy).

Ability to use Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook or similar software programs to provide transferrable skills readily.

Ability to work in-field plot research and in laboratory settings.

Dedicated and able to be detailed and yet quickly recognize and record important research observations.

Ready to and willing to work in diverse weather conditions outside and inside.

Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to work with others.

Ability to pass a criminal background screening.

Applicant Materials Required:

A letter of interest and application.

Three (3) references.

A Resume or CV.

NDSU OFFERS EXCELLENT BENEFITS!

Full time employees are eligible for the following benefits:

• Health Insurance coverage with 100% of the premium paid for by NDSU for Single or Family Plan
  • Option of a PPO/Basic Plan or High Deductible Health Plan with Health Savings Account
  • Benefits begin the first of the month following date of hire
  • Wellness benefits are included for healthy lifestyle participation
• Superb Retirement Plan
  • Employer Contributions range from 7.5% - 12.26% based on position
• Basic Term Life Insurance
• Tuition Waivers for Employee (three classes per calendar year)
• Tuitions Waivers for Spouse/Partner & Dependents (eligible for 50% waiver)
• Paid Leave – including Annual leave, Sick Leave and 10 paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Optional benefits include: Supplemental Life, Dental, Vision, Long-term care insurance, Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care) and Supplemental Retirement Plans
• More Detailed Information Here: Benefits | Human Resources | NDSU

About Us:

North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student focused, land-grant, research university. We educate leaders who solve national and global challenges by providing affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.

NDSU is in the highest Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, R1, granted to the top research institutions in the country.

NDSU has offices across the state of North Dakota, and the main campus is in Fargo, on the Minnesota border. Along with Moorhead, Minnesota, Fargo forms one of the largest metropolitan centers between Minneapolis and Seattle. The community is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live.

No Smoking Notice:

As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.

EO/AA Statement:

NDSU does not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of age, color, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, participation in lawful off-campus activity, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, spousal relationship to current employee, or veteran status, as applicable. Direct inquiries to: Vice Provost, Title IX/ADA Coordinator, Old Main 201, NDSU Main Campus, Fargo, ND, 58108, 701-231-7708, ndsu.eoaa@ndsu.edu.

Diversity Statement:

NDSU strives to be a community of belonging, recognizing unique differences as strengths of our university. We seek to recruit and retain a diverse workforce that supports a community in which diverse populations and perspectives will know and learn from one another. NDSU values candidates who are committed to our core values of respect, inclusivity, community, creativity, excellence, impact, innovation, integrity, resilience, responsiveness, and transformation. Successful candidates will be committed to and help advance our strategic goal to create and maintain an open and respectful environment to promote inclusivity and diversity as a cornerstone of education, research, and outreach.

Veteran’s Preference Notice:

This position is subject to North Dakota Veteran’s Preference requirements.

Reasonable Accommodation Information

North Dakota State University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, please contact Human Resources at 701-231-8961 or ndsu.hr@ndsu.edu.