Agricultural Research Specialist

Job Summary

This position is located at the Southern Piedmont Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Blackstone, Virginia. The successful candidate will be responsible for generating, collecting, analyzing, and transferring research data, as well as managing daily field, greenhouse, and laboratory research activities and Center operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Generate, collect, analyze, and transfer research data
• Manage daily field, greenhouse, and laboratory research activities and Center operations
• Interact with project leaders and the farm manager to initiate experiments, establish research protocols, and integrate research projects into the total research program of the Center
• Occasionally work beyond the normal work schedule and travel within the state to perform necessary tasks at offsite locations
• May be required to carry and use a firearm as part of daily responsibilities for wildlife management

Requirements

• Working knowledge of agricultural research techniques and procedures
• Experience operating agricultural and/or research equipment and vehicles
• Working knowledge of and abilities in production agriculture sufficient to project sound judgment into a research setting
• Demonstrated appreciation and concern for precision, thoroughness, timeliness, and total disclosure in research activities
• Experience with managing and training subordinates and peers
• Knowledge of agricultural disease and pest identification
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse clientele base
• Ability to work outside in various weather conditions

Preferred Qualifications

• Associates or BS degree in Agriculture, Biology, Horticulture, or related area or equivalent training and experience in production agriculture and/or agricultural research
• Experience in tobacco, forage, grains, soybean, and/or ruminant livestock production
• Private and/or commercial pesticide applicators license

Additional Information

Must be able to lift 50+ pounds. Must be able to sit, walk, stand, bend, squat, climb, reach, grasp, and perform repetitive tasks with hands. Must be able to work outside in adverse weather conditions. Must have an acceptable and safe driving record. Must have a driver's license check. This is an off-campus position located at the Southern Piedmont Agricultural Research and Extension Center. Employee may be required to occasionally work beyond normal work schedule and may be required to occasionally travel within the state to perform necessary tasks at offsite locations. Must be able to obtain private and commercial pesticide applicators license within one year.

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.