Research Assistant I

Back to search results Apply now Job no:931833
Work type:Support Staff
Pay Grade: 11
Major Administrative Unit / College: College Of Agriculture And Nat Resources
Department: Plant Soil And Microbial Sciences 40000781
Sub Area: AP- Professionals
Salary: Salary Commensurate with Experience
Location:East Lansing
Categories:Education/Training, Research/Scientific, Administrative Professionals- AP, Full Time (90-100%), Union

The Cropping Systems Agronomy program (https://www.canr.msu.edu/agronomy/ ) in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University is hiring a Research Assistant I. The overarching program goal is to develop agronomic recommendations for corn-, soybean-, and winter wheat-based cropping systems. This position will support research and extension activities of the program. Primary duties of the position include management of field trials, data collection, program resources, and communication with stakeholders. Specific responsibilities and expected time commitment includes:

30%- Implementation of field research. This includes:

• Assist with designing and planning of experiments focused on field preparation,
• in-season crop management, and harvesting of research trials.
• Travel to and transport equipment to various Michigan field site locations.

20%- Data management. This includes:

• Assist with collection of data and research samples using project-specific protocols.
• Oversee data entry, organize data files, and prepare data for analysis.
• Assist with statistical data analysis as needed.

20%- Training and supervision of employees. This includes:

• Aid in hiring decisions for student employees.
• Train and supervise hourly and student employees.
• Oversee and coordinate daily activities for hourly and student employees.

15%- Management of program resources. This includes:

• Safe operation and maintenance of field and laboratory equipment.
• Purchase and maintain inventory of field and laboratory equipment.
• Keep an accurate inventory of supplies and samples.

15%- Communication with stakeholders. This includes:

• Recruiting farmers to participate in on-farm research.
• Communicating with cooperators to coordinate research and extension activities.
• Facilitating the dissemination of results to stakeholders.

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in the specific field of research employment or other related science fields; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed; may require software specific to the area of research; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The position may require special licensing or certification in the field related to the area of employment.

• A Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicators license is required within six months of hire.
• A Michigan Commercial Driver’s License with “Group A” designation is expected after one year of hire.

A Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy, Crop and Soil Sciences, or closely related discipline;

• Experience working in a team environment and managing shared resources.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience in conducting field trials and communication of results to stakeholders.
• Proficiency in operating and repairing field research equipment with auto-guidance and variable rate technologies.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Resume/CV

Cover letter

Names and contact information for three professional references

Address any specific questions about the position and cover letter to Dr. Manni Singh ([email protected] )

To attract as many interested applicants as possible, there will be multiple opportunities to apply to this position on, https://careers.msu.edu/cw/en-us/listing/ ,to keep updated on the windows of opportunity to apply, please inquire with the PSM HR Team ([email protected] ) 

STANDARD 8-5

This is an off dated position funded for one year from the date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

https://www.canr.msu.edu/agronomy/

Lifting seed bags, fertilizer and equipment parts weighing approximately 50lbs from floor to waist height

Carrying seed bags, fertilizer, and equipment parts weighing approximately 50lbs a distance of 50 feet

Pushing bags of seed and fertilizer weighing approximately 50lbs a distance of 30 feet using a cart

Climbing ladders stairs carrying 20lb bags of seed or fertilizer

Drive a university vehicle, which requires a commercial driver’s license:  

• VEHICLES:
  • Having a gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
• COMBINATION VEHICLES:  
  • Towing a trailer or other vehicles with a GVWR of 10,001 pounds or more and a gross combination weight or weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more.
• ANY VEHICLES:
  • Designed or used to transport more than 8 passengers (including the driver) for compensation.
  • Designed to transport 16 or more people (including the driver).
  • Designed to transport 16 or more people (including the driver).

Drive a university vehicle that does not require a commercial driver’s license but does require medical

certification:

• VEHICLES:
  • Have a gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more but less than 26,001 pounds.
• COMBINATION VEHICLES:
  • Having a combined gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds.

 Work in noisy (at or above 85 decibels) areas.

Spray or mix organophosphate or carbamate insecticides.

Advertised:Feb 21, 2024 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close:Mar 21, 2024 Eastern Daylight Time