Agricultural Specialist- Tidewater AREC

Job Description

This is an off-campus position based at the Tidewater Agricultural Research and Extension Center (AREC) located in Suffolk, Virginia, one of 11 off-campus centers operating within Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences & Virginia Experiment Station. This position will provide research and technical support for soybean agronomic and entomology research programs. Primary duties of the position include: maintenance of on-going field research, effective implementation of research and variety testing protocols; routine supervision of agricultural technicians, graduate students, and wage employees; safe operation of research equipment; and good communication with research and variety test cooperators. The position requires travel within the state to cooperating research sites with occasional overnight stays, a general knowledge of agronomic principles, the ability to operate and transport research equipment, accurately collect research data, and work well with others in a team environment.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in relevant field, and/or a combination of education and related experience equivalent to a degree. Must have demonstrated skills and expertise in one or more areas related to soybean agronomy and/or entomology; ability to contribute to the design and performance of research projects; ability to follow instructions and maintain records; ability to supervise employees and students; demonstrated experience with computer software for entry, analysis, and summarization of data; and communicate effectively in oral and written English; must have a valid drivers license and good driving record. Must obtain category 10 pesticide applicator license within 6 months of employment if not already licensed and maintain certification throughout employment. Must obtain a commercial driver's license (Class-A) within 12 months of hire date and pass related physical exam(s) and drug screening; and maintain Class-A certification throughout employment. Must maintain and up-to-date standing on Virginia Tech Environmental Health and Safety trainings such as farm safety, lab safety, forklift, fire extinguisher, hearing conservation, etc. (specific modules will be based upon duties).

Preferred Qualifications

Advanced degree in a related field; demonstrated experience with designing and carrying out experiments in the field, greenhouse, and/or laboratory; experience interacting with diverse constituents and colleagues. Ability to operate and transport field equipment (tractors, sprayers, combines). Spanish literacy (written and spoken).

Pay Band

3

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

$40,000 - $46,000; commensurate with experience

Review Date

March 3, 2025

Additional Information

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.

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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 Carrie Ortel at carrieo@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer