Agricultural Technician II

Virginia Tech • Winchester, VA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Virginia Tech’s AHS Jr. Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Winchester, Virginia, seeks wage personnel to support a horticulture research team. The Agricultural Technician will contribute to fruit-tree research through hands-on field and laboratory work, with a focus on developing and managing fruit-tree research plots. The position is limited to no more than 1,500 hours within the payment year and is expected to average approximately 29 hours per week.

The role includes managing research plots, conducting field and laboratory experiments, analyzing fruit characteristics, preparing plant-tissue samples for molecular and biochemical analysis, and maintaining accurate research records. The technician will collaborate with graduate students, field technicians, and other personnel. Applicants should provide a resume or CV and references. Virginia Tech cannot sponsor work visas for this vacancy, and the successful candidate must undergo a criminal conviction check.

Requirements

• Direct or related experience in plant science or biology in a wage-personnel or similar capacity.
• Computer literacy, particularly with MS Word, Excel, email, and internet applications.
• A valid driver’s license and access to personal transportation.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in plant biology or a related field.
• Practical experience in orchard and laboratory work.
• Experience in data management and supervision.

Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee fruit-tree research plots.
• Conduct fieldwork, including flagging trees, counting flowers and fruits, and harvesting.
• Analyze fruits for physical and chemical characteristics and document findings in Excel.
• Prepare plant tissues for molecular and biochemical analysis, including grinding samples with liquid nitrogen.
• Assist with a range of field and laboratory experiments.
• Maintain accurate data and comprehensive records of experimental activities.
• Collaborate with graduate students, field technicians, and other personnel on research initiatives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed