Research Assistant, Raleigh

Posting Details

Posting Information

Posting Number PG194665EP

Internal Recruitment No

Working Title Research Assistant

Anticipated Hiring Range Commensurate with Experience ($60,000 - $61,500)

Work Schedule Monday-Friday, 8AM-5PM

Job Location Raleigh, NC

Department Crop and Soil Sciences

About the Department

The Precision Sustainable Agriculture program is a network of researchers across the country collaborating to develop integrated knowledge-intensive sustainable agriculture practices into a precision framework to maximize farm productivity and sustainability through the use of an information ecology that connects farms, data, tools, and people for optimal, real-time decision making. The PSA program is housed within the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences.

Wolfpack Perks and Benefits

As a Pack member,

you belong here,

and can enjoy

exclusive perks

designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our

Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

What we offer: Medical ,

Dental , and

Vision Flexible Spending Account Retirement Programs Disability Plans Life Insurance Accident Plan Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs 12 Holidays Each Year Tuition

and

Academic Assistance And so much more! Attain Work-life balance with our

Childcare

benefits,

Wellness&Recreation Membership , and

Wellness Programs

that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.

Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.

Essential Job Duties

The successful candidate will contribute to several projects in the field studying cover crop breeding and testing new technology developed by our program. The position's main responsibilities include assisting in setting up research field plots, planting, maintaining, and harvesting; in general, care of field research projects. The incumbent will ensure data collection, management guidelines, and protocols are being always met.

This position will work with equipment common in an agricultural environment and should be comfortable driving a truck and trailer at highway speeds for long distances for field work. The position will need to be familiar with methods of microplot establishment and maintenance within larger full plots. The incumbent will maintain relationships with growers to keep their interest in the research study and continue their involvement in data collection efforts. In addition, load and unload equipment, make basic repairs, and instruct research personnel on how to use equipment for experiments.

This position will supervise a team of undergraduate and temporary biweekly employees. The incumbent must possess great communication skills, and will coordinate multiple concurrent experiments, and can complete field assignments in a timely manner. The position includes approximately 40% time on campus and 60% time at field sites and is subject to change. Daily working hours may vary during peak season.

1.

Field Research and Experiment Management

Establish, plant, maintain, and harvest cover crop research plots in accordance with study protocols. Coordinate multiple concurrent experiments, ensuring timely execution of all field activities. Maintain accurate and detailed field records while adhering to established research standards and guidelines.2. Equipment Operation and Maintenance

Operate agricultural equipment, including tractors, planters, and harvesters, to support field research activities. Load, transport, and unload machinery using trucks and trailers in a safe and efficient manner. Perform routine equipment maintenance and conduct minor repairs to ensure operational readiness.3. Data Collection and Quality Control

Collect, organize, and manage experimental data in compliance with research protocols and quality standards. Monitor field plots to ensure consistency, accuracy, and integrity across test locations. Assist in data analysis and effectively communicate findings to research scientists. 4. Personnel Supervision and Training

Supervise undergraduate and temporary staff engaged in field and data collection activities. Provide hands-on training in safety procedures, equipment operation, and research methodologies. Promote a collaborative, safe, and productive work environment that supports team success. 5. Collaboration and Communication

Collaborate with breeding and crop science teams to implement and achieve research objectives. Develop and maintain strong working relationships with growers and external research partners. Demonstrate flexibility in adapting to shifting priorities, seasonal demands, and evolving field schedules.Other Responsibilities

Supervise and manage junior technician and team of temporary biweekly employees. Cooperatively work with a varied group of crop and breeding scientists in the collection of data and communicating research results. Driving light equipment such as tractors and agricultural machinery. Additional duties as assigned.Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience

Master's degree in Plant Science, Soil Science, Agronomy or related field, or a Bachelor's degree in Plant Science or Agronomy plus 4 years of experience Other Required Qualifications

Excellent oral and written communication skills. The ability to work independently and in a collaborative research environment is paramount. Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and data management skills. Understanding of a wide variety of cropping systems across different environments. Thorough understanding of the agronomic research field design, and be able to organize a field for statistical soundness.Basic technical understanding of agronomic principles of field crops and some knowledge of the equipment used to plant and harvest such crops. Demonstrated ability to follow standard field protocols as well as the technical knowledge to develop and communicate new protocols as needed. Ability to concentrate on repetitive tasks and proper labeling of samples, as well as attention to detail and competency with field maps.Ability to enter and interpret data from research trials, and maintain data logging software and sensor equipment. Ability to coordinate multiple concurrent experiments and complete field assignments in a timely manner. Preferred Qualifications

Basic knowledge of data flow and understanding how smaller aspects of a project lend themselves to a bigger question. Creativity and willingness to use power tools. Ability to recall information about protocols in a quick and timely manner. Previous team management Data management skills and experience in Microsoft ExcelRequired License(s) or Certification(s)

A valid NC Driver's License and the ability to obtain an NC Driver's License within 60 days of hire. A valid Driver's License must be maintained throughout employment.

Valid NC Driver's License required Yes

Commercial Driver's License required No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions

Job Open Date 05/20/2026

Anticipated Close Date Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please attach a Cover Letter, resume/CV, and contact information for at least three (3) professional references.

Position Details

Position Number 00112085

Position Type EPS/SAAO

Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.00

Appointment 12 Month Recurring

Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather

Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Non Mandatory - Emergency Event

Department ID 110901 - Crop and Soil Sciences

EEO

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or

.

Final candidates are subject to criminal&sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

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