Job Description
Job Description
PURPOSE:
The Field Research Technician is a full-time, grant-funded position supporting USDA-NIFA–funded
research within the Department of Cooperative Research at Lincoln University of Missouri. This role
advances the department's mission to enhance sustainable crop production and resource-use efficiency
by ensuring the accurate implementation of field experiments, including plot establishment, irrigation and
nutrient management, data collection, equipment operation, and record keeping in compliance with federal
standards. Reporting to the Principal Investigator, the technician collaborates with faculty, students, farm
staff, and extension personnel to maintain research continuity, data quality, and timely project execution.
The position provides essential operational support that strengthens research capacity, supports grant
objectives, and contributes to the university's land-grant mission of research, education, and outreach.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS, DUTIES, & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assist with the implementation of greenhouse and field research.
- Support crop establishment, irrigation, nutrient management, and harvesting.
- Collect and organize plant and soil data using standardized methods.
- Conduct soil and plant sampling for agronomic assessments.
- Maintain accurate field records to support reporting requirements.
- Assist with plot layout, field preparation, and seasonal maintenance.
- Operate and maintain field equipment.
- Follow institutional safety and compliance guidelines.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:
- Two years' experience in Agronomy, Crop Science, Soil Science, or related field.
- Knowledge of plant production and soil systems.
- Ability to work outdoors under varying conditions.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree or master's degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, Soil Science, or related field.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience with agricultural field research.
- Knowledge of precision agriculture or drone technology.
- Familiarity with GPS, sensors, or mobile data collection tools.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Ability to lift 30Lb and work in Extreme temperatures.
This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required for the job and is
subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of Lincoln University. Since
no job description can detail all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time in the performance of
a job, duties and responsibilities that may be inherent in a job, reasonably required for its performance, or required due to the
changing nature of the job shall also be considered part of the jobholder's responsibility.