Agricultural Specialist II

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

2d

About The Position

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University seeks an Agricultural Specialist II to support research, demonstration, and teaching activities at the Horticulture Research Station and Hinds Memorial Farm. This position plays a key role in planning and executing bulk crop production and research operations, as well as maintaining equipment, facilities, and high standards for research compliance and safety. The successful candidate will work closely with faculty, principal investigators, farm leadership, students, and community partners to ensure efficient, safe, and research-compliant farm operations. The role also provides operational leadership through support of budgeting, inventory management, long-term planning, and the training and mentoring of student employees. Why Join Us This role offers a dynamic research environment with new challenges and experiences every day. You’ll gain hands-on experience with horticultural and agronomic crops, specialized equipment, and innovative production practices that extend beyond standard farm operations. You’ll be part of a collaborative, supportive team and work in a setting that showcases Iowa State’s scenic agricultural landscape, while building technical skills and contributing directly to impactful research, teaching, and outreach. The ISU Horticulture Research Station, located just north of Ames, supports horticulture and sustainable agriculture research across 230 acres. The station provides a hands-on environment for developing innovative agricultural practices and educating students and the public, with facilities that include field trials, demonstration gardens, and a wide range of sustainable farming systems. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position. Level Guidelines • Intermediate-level position with solid professional and/or technical skills working under general supervision to achieve goals • Applies broad, working knowledge of the principles of the field to moderately complex, difficult, and varied problems and issues • Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action and resolve problems • Responds to a broad range of inquiries and requests • May provide training and/or direction to lower-level staff • May lead projects of moderate scope and complexity • Provides guidance to students

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of related experience
• Drivers License

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in agricultural discipline.
• Experience in field-based agricultural research and crop production.
• Experience operating, maintaining, and modifying farm equipment, including tractors, sprayers, combines, and precision agriculture technologies.
• Experience with general farm maintenance, including minor construction and facility upkeep.
• Knowledge of irrigation system installation, operation, and maintenance.
• Commercial pesticide applicators certification.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and execute daily bulk crop operations in a research setting
• Apply crop, pest, nutrient, and soil management principles to support research activities
• Collaborate with principal investigators and farm leadership to manage and troubleshoot research plots
• Execute research protocols, including crop establishment and termination, specialized applications, and equipment modification
• Operate, inspect, maintain, repair, and calibrate agricultural equipment, facilities, irrigation systems, and high tunnels
• Install, operate, and maintain precision agriculture and GPS technologies
• Collect, record, and maintain accurate digital records related to field operations, equipment, maintenance, inventories, and research activities
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment
• Support outreach and public engagement efforts, including leading farm tours and engaging with stakeholders

Benefits

• Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees