Research Specialist/Hybrid

State of North Carolina•Washington, DC

6d•$47,703 - $60,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is hiring an Agricultural Research Specialist to manage assigned research projects related to agricultural crop production and the mechanical and infrastructure resources needed to support the research platform at the station. This role involves managing projects, collaborating with project leaders, and supervising a team of research technicians and seasonal staff. A major function is to serve as a maintenance mechanic, ensuring all equipment and infrastructure for research projects are properly maintained, including scheduling, operating, and maintaining the station’s equipment program. The role also involves performing basic vehicle and farm equipment repairs, as well as basic carpentry, painting, electrical, and plumbing tasks.

Requirements

Knowledge of horticultural crops, field crops and plastic culture production.
Knowledge of understanding of research principles and methods.
Knowledge of the operation, maintenance, repair, calibration and capabilities of equipment, implements and infrastructure found on an agricultural research station.
Ability to operate and maintain specialized equipment used in field research.
Physical requirements include the ability to perform long periods of repetitive reaching, stooping, standing, bending and lifting of 50 lbs in a variety of work environments.
Must possess a CDL Driver License at the time of application or qualify for certification within twelve (12) months of employment.
Must possess a Public Pesticide Applicator License at the time of application or qualify for certification within twelve (12) months of employment.
Must possess a Forklift Driver Certificate issued by the Research Division at the time of application or qualify for certification within twelve (12) months of employment.
Must obtain medical clearance to wear a half mask or full-face respirator with cartridges at the time of application or qualify for certification within twelve (12) months of employment.
Bachelor’s degree preferably related to the assigned program area; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Nice To Haves

Experience in crop production, including planting, cultivating and harvesting various crops.
Experience in operating and repairing farm equipment.
Experience in maintenance of irrigation systems.

Responsibilities

Manage assigned research projects related to agricultural crop production.
Collaboration with project leaders.
Provide supervision over a team of research technicians, as well as seasonal staff.
Serve as a maintenance mechanic: Ensure all equipment and infrastructure required to implement multiple complex research projects are properly maintained.
In charge of scheduling, operating and maintenance of the station’s equipment program.
Perform basic vehicle and farm equipment repairs.
Perform basic carpentry, painting, electrical and plumbing.