Agricultural Technician Supervisor

University of Maryland•College Park, MD

1d•$51,069 - $61,283•Onsite

About The Position

The Maryland Agricultural Experiment Station (MAES) in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) at the University of Maryland College Park fosters research related to sustainable food and fiber production with economic and environmental viability. This position is located in Keedysville, MD, and assists and supports the Assistant Director of Operations in the daily operations of agricultural research at the Western Maryland Research and Education Center. The role involves coordinating fieldwork, planning and executing tilling, planting, fertilizing, spraying, and harvesting for various agricultural crops and research plots. It requires operating farm equipment, performing routine maintenance, and providing leadership to other employees in the absence of the Assistant Director of Operations.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED
Six years progressively responsible experience in agriculture work
Four years of which must have been in laboratory or field research
Two years of which must have been in a lead or supervisory capacity.
Valid Maryland Noncommercial Class C or equivalent driver's license.
Comprehensive knowledge of farming practices and equipment usage.
Comprehensive knowledge of and skill in scientific methods and the use of related laboratory equipment.
Comprehensive knowledge of and skill in the use of related farm equipment.
Thorough knowledge of mathematics including algebra, area, volume, weights, measures, and proportions and ability to perform mathematical and algebraic calculations.
Ability to use computers
Ability to supervise and train agricultural technicians and support staff
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
Ability to lift and transport agricultural supplies, tools, and equipment
Ability to climb, and to perform extensive standing and walking
Ability to wear and work in personal protective equipment
Ability to work in extreme weather conditions.
Ability to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), non-commercial Class B or equivalent driver's license valid in the State of Maryland is required.
Ability to obtain certification by the Maryland State Department of Agriculture as a pesticide applicator is required.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, Horticulture, or related field.
Experience conducting agricultural field research.
Ability to use, maintain and repair farm equipment and specialized agricultural equipment.

Responsibilities

Assists and supports the Assistant Director of Operations in the daily operations of agricultural research.
Coordinates fieldwork in support of UMD faculty conducting research at the facility.
Plans and carries out fieldwork: tilling, planting, fertilizing, spraying, harvesting for traditional, non-traditional agricultural crops and research plots.
Operates farm equipment: farm tractors, tillage equipment, planters, sprayers, combines, and grain trucks.
Carries out routine maintenance of equipment, grounds, and facilities.
Provides leadership to other employees when Assistant Director of Operations is absent from the facility.