Researcher, Field Agronomist (Maricopa, AZ) in Maricopa, AZ 85138
Part TimeJob Description
Posting Number
req17380
Department
School of Plant Sciences-Res
Department Website Link
Location
Maricopa
Address
37860 W Smith Enke Rd, Maricopa, AZ 85138 USA
Position Highlights
A field agronomist position is available at the University of Arizonas Maricopa Agricultural Center (MAC) located in Maricopa, Arizona. The successful candidate will be responsible for management of crop research projects and participation in their planning and design. The focus of these projects is understanding crop genetics as related to heat and drought stress. The projects span multiple crop types as well as cropping seasons. The successful candidate will be able to work with a multitude of crops (research program has worked with over 10 including sorghum, cotton, lettuce, hemp).
The successful candidate will be responsible for all aspects of research crop management. This will encompass the use of new and emerging technologies to measure crop performance including UAVs, handheld instruments, and helping with the worlds largest plant phenotyping robot (please see story by the Wall Street Journal: https://tinyurl.com/2tnhbtxa). Arizona provides a unique and challenging growing environment, from extreme temperatures to alkaline soils, therefore we are seeking a candidate that can apply agronomic theory in an applied setting while doing so with scientific rigor. This position will operate with very limited oversight so a candidate with self-direction will be essential. The position will require strong interpersonal and communication skills as the candidate will be working closely with a diverse group of research scientists, technicians, undergraduate/graduate students, farm managers and workers. The candidate will lead and coordinate the work of other research staff.
Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; state and optional retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!
The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.
Duties & Responsibilities
Help plan, design, and lead complex field trials in accordance with project goals and outcomes to achieve the best data possible with minimal supervision. This will include but is not limited to:
Sample soil and plant tissue and submit for nutrient analysis as a guide for fertilizer and soil amendment application to ensure optimum crop growth.
Operation of machinery as needed to complete field tasks. Must be comfortable operating or learning to operate machinery used for agricultural field plot research in a safe and efficient manner.
Scout fields to identify weeds, pathogens, and insects, and in consultation with experts, develop chemical or cultural mitigation strategies to address pest problems.The chemical strategies may involve various tools such as conventional sprayers as well as UAV-based aerial applications of agrochemicals.
Collection of crop physiological data using a variety of instruments such as handheld chlorophyll concentration meters, chlorophyll fluorescence meters, leaf gas exchange analyzers, etc.
Summarizing collected field data for the preparation of reports to stakeholders as well as contributing to the preparation of peer-reviewed manuscripts.
Organizing, supervising, and training temporary employees ensuring that priorities are set, and that work is performed safely, accurately and efficiently.
Adapting new technology for use within plant science research as well as developing and establishing proficiency with new computer software related to the overall research efforts.
Integrating multiple priorities and work activities to successfully meet project and seasonal deadlines in an efficient manner.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT:
Be able to carry out physical tasks associated with field research including working outside during summer months (temperatures >100°F), ability to lift up to 50 pounds, and completing repetitive tasks.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of standard crop production practices including tillage, planting, pest/fertility management, and harvesting.Knowledge of irrigation management is not essential but desirable.
Understanding of no-till/conservation practices as well as regenerative agriculture.
Ability to write reports summarizing field research procedures and results.
Ability to set up and use electronic devices such as tablets, smartphones, research instruments to collect and record data.
Knowledge of the principals, theories, and techniques of crop production.
Familiarity with arid land agricultural practices
Irrigation scheduling and application using flood, sprinkler, subsurface drip and other methods as dictated by crop type and research objectives. Irrigations will be based on measurement of soil volumetric water content using neutron probe or other instruments. Experts may be consulted for irrigation management.
Familiar with statistical programming language such as R, SAS, or Python for the basic analysis of data and report generation.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelors Degree in agronomy or closely related field.
1 year of relevant work experience is required.
Must have a valid drivers license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.
Preferred Qualifications
FLSA
Exempt
Full Time/Part Time
Full Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week
40.00
Job FTE
1.0
Work Calendar
Fiscal
Job Category
Research
Benefits Eligible
Yes – Full Benefits
Rate of Pay
$47,356 DOE
Compensation Type
salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)
Grade
6
Career Stream and Level
PC1
Job Family
Researchers & Scientists
Job Function
Research
Type of criminal background check required:
Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies
1
Target Hire Date
9/1/2023
Expected End Date
Contact Information for Candidates
Dr. Duke Pauli,
dukepauli@arizona.edu
Open Date
8/25/2023
Open Until Filled
Yes
Documents Needed to Apply
Resume and Cover Letter
Special Instructions to Applicant
Diversity Statement
At the University of Arizona, we value our inclusive climate because we know that diversity in experiences and perspectives is vital to advancing innovation, critical thinking, solving complex problems, and creating an inclusive academic community. As a Hispanic-serving institution, we translate these values into action by seeking individuals who have experience and expertise working with diverse students, colleagues, and constituencies. Because we seek a workforce with a wide range of perspectives and experiences, we provide equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. As an Employer of National Service, we also welcome alumni of AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service programs and others who will help us advance our Inclusive Excellence initiative aimed at creating a university that values student, staff and faculty engagement in addressing issues of diversity and inclusiveness.
How to Apply
This job has expired and cannot be applied to - try looking for more under 'Latest Jobs'