Extension and Research Technician

Virginia Tech•Warrenton, VA

13d•$45,000 - $55,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Middleburg Agricultural Research and Extension Center (MAREC) is seeking an Extension and Research Technician to support applied research, Extension programming, and producer education. This field-based position will act as a liaison between AREC Faculty, Extension Agents, and local agricultural producers. The technician will assist with crop scouting, demonstration plots, on-farm evaluations, and outreach activities for row crop, forage, and commercial horticulture systems. Under the guidance of the MARE Center Director and VCE-Fauquier Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent/Unit Coordinator, the applicant will initiate, lead, and manage research and demonstration projects. Responsibilities include assisting with new and existing projects, participating in teams to develop new extension programming, and disseminating research results. The role involves interpreting and sharing knowledge of sustainable agronomic, commercial horticulture, and forage production systems with Virginia producers through partnerships with Virginia Cooperative Extension agents, specialists, industry personnel, technical service providers, and industry organizations. Communication methods include farm visits, field events, workshops, various media publications, and contributions to newsletters.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent skills and experience.
Demonstrated experience in extension and outreach to farmers, landowners, and others involved in agriculture.
Ability to lead research teams and oversee project schedules, budgets, and deliverables.
Demonstrated strong writing and organizational skills.
Strong understanding of crop scouting, demonstration plots, on-farm evaluations, forage and commercial horticulture systems science and practices needed to design, analyze, and interpret work.
Proficiency in data processing and analysis.
Must have a valid driver’s license.
On farm experience with care and management of row crops, forages, and/or livestock production systems.
Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
Demonstrated ability to operate agricultural equipment, or aptitude to learn.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated experience with forage and livestock research methods.

Responsibilities

Supporting applied research, Extension programming, and producer education.
Assisting with crop scouting, demonstration plots, on-farm evaluations, and outreach activities supporting row crop, forage and commercial horticulture systems.
Initiating, leading, and managing various research and demonstration projects.
Assisting with new and existing projects.
Participating in teams to develop new extension programming.
Disseminating the results from research work broadly in the agricultural science and farm communities.
Interpreting and sharing knowledge of sustainable agronomic, commercial horticulture and forage production systems with Virginia producers.
Communicating through farm visits, field events, workshops, various media publications, and newsletter contributions.