Position Details
Position Information Internal Posting? Posting Number SP005118P Position Title Research Specialist Division/College College of Agricultural & Life Sciences Department Plant Sciences Location Aberdeen Posting Context Statement The position supports the primary investigator in researching small grain agronomic and pathology issues for the Cereals Extension/Research Program in South-Central/Southeast Idaho, involving planning and maintaining field studies to evaluate cereal varieties and their environmental responses. Tasks include seed prep, planting, plot maintenance, harvesting, grain processing, and data management. The Research Specialist must work efficiently with minimal supervision, ensure data quality, and maintain safe working conditions while operating machinery such as combines, planters, and tractors. Collaboration with Cereal Extension faculty and staff at the R&E Centers is required. Position Overview Performs research activities and analysis, recording observations and measurements, and reports results. Participates in analyzing and preparing results for publication. Works under general supervision.
Duties may include:
1. Prepare standard solutions for calibration and analyses
2. Interpret test results and comparing with determined standards and limits
3. Collect laboratory or field data
4. Conduct research and analysis of scientific data
5. Participate in research design discussions
6. Perform literature reviews
7. Prepare reports
8. Compare data and historical records for trend verification
9. Develop reference files, comparison charts, and graphs on research data
10. Assist with site inspections and field oversight
11. Have little or no supervisory responsibilities
12. Other duties as assigned
Unit URL Position Qualifications Required Experience
13. Following pre-established procedures or protocols
14. Collecting and reviewing scientific data
15. Keeping complete and accurate records
16. Working in a team environment
Required Education
17. Bachelor’s Degree in Plant Science or related field to the domain of the position
Required Other
18. Possess a valid driver’s license and be able to meet policy requirements for driving university-owned vehicles
19. Professional pesticide applicator’s license with demonstration and research endorsement or ability to acquire within 6 months
20. Work nonstandard business hours including occasional weekends, evenings, and holidays
Additional Preferred
21. Two years of research experience
22. Knowledge of small grain production methods and practices
23. Experience operating a variety of agricultural machinery, including tractors, planters, and tillage equipment
24. Proven ability to apply scientific principles in research settings
25. Proficiency with computer software relevant to data collection, analysis, and reporting
26. Demonstrated ability to: Perform specialized tasks and laboratory/field techniques related to small grain research Operate, maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot research instruments and equipment Maintain accurate records and compile data for written reports
27. Strong written communication skills
Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
28. Ability to work with toxic, volatile, corrosive chemicals and/or carcinogenic substances
29. Ability to work in adverse environmental conditions
30. Ability to carry, lift and/or otherwise move heavy materials weighing up to 50 pounds
Degree Requirement Listed degree qualification is required at time of application Posting Information FLSA Status Non-Exempt Employee Category Classified Pay Range $24.52 an hour or higher depending on experience or education. Type of Appointment Fiscal Year FTE 1.0 Full Time/Part Time Full Time Funding This position is contingent upon the continuation of work and/or funding. A visa sponsorship is available for the position listed in this vacancy. No