Research Technologist

The purpose of this position is to support the activities of the irrigation program conducted inside and outside the SWREC research plots. Activities include installation of soil moisture sensors; operating and maintaining farm machinery and irri...

  • 519777
  • Garden City, Kansas
  • SW Research Ext Cntr Garden Cy
  • Staff Full Time (Unclassified - Term)
  • Opening on: May 1 2025
  • On-site

About This Role

The purpose of this position is to support the activities of the irrigation program conducted at the SWREC research plots. Activities include installation of soil moisture sensors; operating and maintaining farm machinery and irrigation systems with variable rate irrigation features; monitoring and maintenance of other sensors and equipment in the field; programming, installation and troubleshooting data logger; downloading data from data loggers and web servers; soil and water sampling/measurement; and hand harvesting of crops at the end of cropping season.

About Us

The Southwest Research-Extension Center, established in 1907, epitomizes Kansas State University Research and Extension's enduring commitment to agricultural research in southwest Kansas. The center boasts state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology in dryland and irrigated crop production while expanding to support Family and Consumer Sciences and 4-H Youth Development. Through steadfast dedication to its mission, the center addresses K-State Research and Extension's grand challenges, serving as a cornerstone of progress and prosperity in the region. Many of the research-based recommendations for the western region of the state were conducted and evaluated in this facility.

Worksite Option

This position is on-site.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Requires an associate degree and two years of relevant experience. This position may use an educational equivalency as determined relevant by a hiring manager. 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor or associate degree in agronomy, soils, agricultural technology/engineering, crops, or related field.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to perform successfully in a team environment.
  • Three years of irrigation experience or course work is preferred.
  • Ability to download and encode accurate data and perform basic spreadsheet analysis of data.
  • Willing to operate and manage farm machinery and irrigation systems with variable rate irrigation features.
  • Ability to learn to operate, install, program, and troubleshoot electronic equipment, such as data logger, telemetry, solar panels, and analog/SDI sensors.
  • Knowledge of safety requirements for work with or around machinery.
  • Some experience working in the farm and machine shop is desirable.
  • Education in computer technology and electronics may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the agency.

Other Requirements:

  • Valid driver's license upon employment to permit incumbent to operate automobiles and pickup trucks having standard or automatic transmissions.
  • Ability to obtain a Radiation Safety badge/certification to use the neutron moisture probe (within the first month of employment).
  • The position involves regular (daily seasonal) use or contact with neutron probe and hand tools, drilling machine and gas-powered auger, computers, and other small electronic equipment. Driving pick-up trucks and ATV vehicles is also expected.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

1. Resume

2. Three professional references

Screening of Applications Begins

Immediately and continues until position is filled.

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$19.00-$26.00

 

 

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Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.

Work Authorization: 

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Background Screening Statement:

Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.

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