Agricultural Research Technician

Job Summary

The Lead Agronomic Research Technician is responsible for working directly with faculty and graduate students implementing field trials at the Throckmorton Purdue Ag Center (TPAC).  In this role you will be reviewing and evaluating individual research protocols for each trial making recommendations that allow for efficient use of TPAC resources as well as taking the lead and working independently in the scheduling and operation of field equipment fleet used for field preparation, plot layout, planting, pesticide applications and harvest of agronomic crops related to field research trials at the TPAC. In addition you will utilize precision ag technologies to program research equipment for variable-rate planting, pesticide application and yield data collection based on input about data required by faculty and graduate students, crop scouting and field conditions. 

What You'll Be Doing:

• Operate research and commercial agriculture equipment in a research capacity such as tractors, planters, sprayers and combines fitted with data collection systems
• Setup and operation of Real Time Kinetic (RTK) GPS and other precision ag technologies to enhance machine operations and data collection
• Assist researchers with collection and retrieval of data for a multitude of field research activities; May analyze, interpret, summarize and maintain data
• Distribute data to principal investigators as requested
• Setup and calibrate equipment to meet expectations of research protocols
• Interface with software to automatically or manually achieve desired machine function related to planting rate, speed, steering, depth and downforce, application rate and data collection
• Research Equipment and Facilities Maintenance and Repair
• Facilitate equipment maintenance, modifications and repairs to meet operational standards as well as specific needs of faculty and graduate students implementing research trials at the ag center
• Communicate with staff and ag center clientele regarding equipment issues and solutions
• Foster a work environment that encourages collaboration, team work, responsible work ethic, and synergies of staff
• Participate in planning, preparing and coordinating research plots, field days and programs.
• Manage grain center operations including drying, transfer, storage and maintaining grain condition for long term storage
• Heavy Equipment Operation (Bulldozing, Backhoes, Excavators, Dump Trucks, etc.)

What We're Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree
• 2 years of experience with equipment operation, setup, repair, modification and maintenance, use of Precision Ag technologies and agricultural & heavy equipment operation
• In lieu of degree, an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered (Associate's + 4 years of experience; HS/GED + 6 years of experience)
• Ability to obtain certification and/or licensing in regulated areas as needed (example: Possess or have the ability to acquire a Cat 1 pesticide applicator license within 6 months of hire date)
• Acquire a Class A CDL within 12 months of employment
• Become approved to drive Purdue University vehicles
• Valid U.S. or Canadian drivers license

Nice to Have:

• Welding experience

What We'd Like You to Know:

• Purdue will not sponsor work authorization for this position.
• A background check is required for employment in this position
• This was formerly classified as an operational/technical position; an internal lateral transfer will retain same benefit standing.
• FLSA:  Non-Exempt (Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement:  Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan
• Purdue University is an EEO/AA employer.  All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply

What You'll Get in Return:

All university employees are afforded a generous benefits package, https://www.purdue.edu/hr/benewell/index.php, including medical/dental/vision insurance, paid time off, and retirement contributions. As part of Purdue University’s expansive employee benefit package, the University is proud to offer its employees the opportunity to grow, learn, and advance by offering a tuition remission opportunity at both Purdue University and Purdue Global.

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