Agricultural Specialist III

Virginia Tech is hiring an Agricultural Specialist III to support the crop physiology program at the Tidewater Agricultural Research & Extension Center in Suffolk, VA. Responsibilities include executing experimental protocols, maintaining plots, data collection, and providing guidance to part-time staff and students. The position requires mechanical equipment operation experience and a valid driver's license. It's a grant-funded role with a salary range of $38,000 - $48,000, contingent on performance and funding.
Agricultural Specialist III

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 532378
Work type: Staff
Senior management: Agriculture & Life Sciences
Department: Tidewater AREC
Location: Suffolk, Virginia
Categories: Agriculture / Life Science

Job Description

The Agricultural Specialist III supports the crop physiology program at the VT Tidewater Agricultural Research & Extension Center under the leadership of the resident crop physiologist (Dr. Maria Balota). Duties include carrying out experimental protocols involving land preparation, planting, experimental plot maintenance, harvesting, crop drying and processing, sample processing, data collection and recording data electronically for both onsite and offsite research locations. In-state and adjacent out-of-state overnight travel may be required. The Agricultural Specialist III position is also responsible for organization and upkeep of facilities and equipment assigned to the crop physiology program. This position also provides field-based guidance to part-time employees and graduate students working within the program. The successful candidate will be expected to help other programs at TAREC when labor demand is high. This is a grant funded position and the initial appointment is for 12 months contingent on acceptable performance. Renewal of the position is contingent on the availability of funds.

Required Qualifications

Prior experience operating mechanical equipment such as tractors, planters, sprayers, cultivation equipment, harvest combines, and power/hand tools is required. Additionally, experience performing preventive maintenance of field and research equipment is required. Experience providing support for research projects and the ability to communicate and plan with the project leader and cooperating staff is desired. Strong written and verbal communication is required. Experience with data entry (into computers) and using software like Microsoft Office is required. Must have a valid driver's license, good driving record and must have or obtain a Commercial Driver's License with a Class A endorsement and a DOT medical certification within six months of employment. Must have or obtain a category 10 pesticide applicators license within six months of employment.

Preferred Qualifications

Associates degree in Agriculture, Biology, Horticulture, or related area or equivalent training and experience in production agriculture and/or agricultural research preferred.

Pay Band

3

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

$38,000 - $48,000; commensurate with experience.

Review Date

February 26, 2025; open until filled.

Additional Information

In addition to completing the application and submitting a resume, a writing sample with bullet points of experiences relative to the job description is requested.

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

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Dr. Maria Balota at mbalota@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: February 11, 2025
Applications close:

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