Research Professional 2

Position Description

This posting is for in person work, at the NWORC in Crookston, MN.

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Position Overview:

The Research Professional 2 position is a 12-month continuing appointment who is a member of the Research Support Group, that provides the technical expertise and hands-on effort necessary to execute diverse agronomic research projects. The role involves working closely with project leaders to implement research designs, requiring both the initiative to handle independent assignments and the ability to collaborate effectively with the research support group. Because the work follows the seasonal demands of the growing season, the successful candidate must be self-motivated and adaptable. This individual is responsible for supporting the Center's research goals by performing precise field operations, maintaining specialized equipment, and ensuring accurate data collection as part of a collective research effort.

Major Responsibilities:
Research Plot Support (65%)

• Assist in the design and implementation of complex research projects according to PI specifications.
• Independently plan and prepare field and greenhouse experiments, including plot layout, specialized tillage, and fertilizer/pesticide application.
• Establish and monitor experimental plots according to research protocols.
• Perform field operations in research plots and on research rotational lands which may include but not limited to planting, fertilizing, pesticide applications, tillage, and harvesting.
• Execute plot management and site maintenance through established cultural practices and standard operational procedures.
• Perform experimental sample collection and processing (weighing, drying, grinding, and packaging) for statistical analysis and shipment.

Recording Data & Inventory (20%)

• Monitor, collect, and record research data and field observations.
• Maintain proper activity logs, pesticide records, and NOAA weather data records through various manual and electronic databases.
• Monitor inventory and order supplies, fertilizers, and equipment as needed.

Laboratory & Equipment Setup (10%)

• Organize, set up, and calibrate specialized research equipment, including planters, sprayers, fertilizer applicators, and scales.

Facility Maintenance & General Support (5%)

• Maintain and repair research equipment and facilities.
• Provide operational support as needed to advance the Center's research portfolio and complete additional site-specific duties.
• Participate in plot tours, outreach programs, and research presentations as needed.

Required Qualifications:

• BS/BA in an agricultural related field with at least two (2) years of experience with crops; or a combination of related education and work experience to equal 6 years in relation to preparation, planting, fertilizing, spraying, and harvesting of agronomic crops as well as operation of mechanical equipment.
• Ability to obtain a Certified Pesticide Applicator License for applying herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, etc.
• Evidence of good communication and collaboration skills.
• Evidence of being observant and detail-oriented, following written and verbal instructions, and being willing to participate in a team atmosphere.
• Use of computer for basic word processing and data entry/analysis

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge or experience with small plot research equipment, management and operations.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word or Excel.
• Ability to drive a pick-up truck with a trailer. Ability to load a trailer with a tractor or combine.

The Northwest Research and Outreach Center (NWROC) in Crookston is one of 10 University of Minnesota Research and Outreach Centers located throughout the state. It is part of the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) on the St. Paul campus. The specific mission of the NWROC is to conduct applied agronomic research on issues vital to Northwest Minnesota's agriculture and to disseminate those findings through outreach and extension programs.

Pay Range: $26.50 - $28.50 per hour, depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).