Technician I

Job DescriptionAbout Texas A&M AgriLife Texas A&M AgriLife is comprised of the following Texas A&M University System members:Texas A&M AgriLife Extension ServiceTexas A&M AgriLife ResearchCollege of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M UniversityTexas A&M Forest ServiceTexas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic LaboratoryAs the nation’s largest most comprehensive agriculture program, Texas A&M AgriLife brings together a college and four state agencies focused on agriculture and life sciences within The Texas A&M University System. With over 5, employees and a presence in every county across the state, Texas A&M AgriLife is uniquely positioned to improve lives, environments and the Texas economy through education, research, extension and service.Click here to learn more about how you can be a part of AgriLife and make a difference in the worldPosition InformationWe are seeking a Technician I, under general supervision, assists in planning research, supports laboratory methods and techniques, and recording data for a series of closely-controlled experiments supporting the production of rice.Responsibilities: Conducting Agricultural Research: Preparation of seed for planting-treating, weighing, packaging, organizing in planting order. Care of research plots, including application of fertilizers, spraying pesticides, irrigation and drainage and other treatments as required. Establishment of plot layout, including flagging, staking, and verification of plot dimensions, levee location and maintenance. Wicking to establish plot borders. Routine maintenance on laterals and irrigation control structures. Pre harvest preparation and harvesting small plots. Milling samples to verify grain quality. Operates farm equipment such as tractors, plows, cultivators, etc. Maintains inventory of supplies needed for field experiments.Recording Observations and Measurements: Crop development notes, including emergence, tillering, panicle development, heading dates, maturity dates and heights. Records weights, moistures and milling results on individual plot samples. Records daily weather data for the National Weather Service. Equipment and Maintenance: Maintenance on vehicles, tractors, implements and equipment. General repairs and maintenance on buildings. Performs a variety of work assignments utilizing power and hand tools, mechanical, carpentry, painting and welding skills. Performs mowing and landscape duties to maintain appearance of the research station. Maintains cleanliness and appearance of shop. Maintains equipment, including fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, etc. for annual safety inspections.Participate in annual Eagle Lake and Beaumont Field Days.Other duties as assigned.Required Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience.Two years of related experience.​Ability to establish effective, respectful working relationships and to avoid conflict. Must be self-motivated. Must be able to work independently. Strong attention to detail. Ability to operate ATV and UTV in a safe and responsible manner. Ability to work with graduate students, scientists and support personnel. Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others. Other Requirements: Ability to lift moderately heavy objects. What You Need to KnowSalary: Compensation for this position is commensurate based on the selected candidate’s qualifications. This is an hourly paid position. Why Work at Texas A&M AgriLife?When you choose to work for Texas A&M AgriLife, you become part of an organization that is an established leader in agriculture and life sciences with a wide range of capabilities to meet the needs of our statewide, national, and international constituents.In addition, Texas A&M AgriLife offers a comprehensive benefit package including the following: Health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M AgriLife contributing to employee health and basic life premiums 12-15 days of annual paid holidays Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each monthAutomatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas Employee Wellness Initiative for Texas A&M AgriLife