NYS IPM Project Facilitator and Field Technician (Geneva Campus)

Cornell University•Geneva, IL

1d•$23 - $24•Hybrid

About The Position

The Cornell Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program is seeking a highly motivated research professional to support applied agricultural research projects across New York State. The Project Facilitator and Field Technician position offers an opportunity to work alongside scientists and extension educators conducting research focused on sustainable pest management in fruit, vegetable, and ornamental crop systems. Work will be conducted on both research farms in Geneva and commercial farms in Central and/or Western New York. We are looking for someone who enjoys hands-on field research, is comfortable working outdoors in a variety of environmental conditions, and has an interest in agriculture, insects, plant diseases, or applied science. Research priorities change throughout the year based on seasonal needs and funded projects. Winter months typically involve more indoor activities including data management, laboratory work, outreach support, and educational resource development. In this role, you will support field and laboratory research projects that help growers manage insects, weeds, and plant diseases while advancing sustainable agricultural practices.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree and 3 to 5 years relevant experience or equivalent combination.
Computer proficiency and the ability to learn new programs as needed to support the program’s goals.
Familiarity with crop protection products and ability to work independently.
Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position.
Must have and maintain a valid and unrestricted NYS driver’s license and be cleared to drive for university business.
Experience working directly with people from various socioeconomic backgrounds.
Experience incorporating the perspectives of multiple communities.
Working outdoors for extended periods, including full workdays in summer conditions
Walking through uneven terrain, crop fields, and research plots
Working in hot, humid, dusty, or otherwise challenging weather conditions
Collecting and handling insects and plant samples
Using microscopes and other research equipment
Lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 50 pounds

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree and 4 years’ experience in conducting field and laboratory research tasks.
Experience in the use of the database program Excel.
Experience collecting and identifying arthropods.
Knowledge of pesticide classes, safety, and pesticide product labels.
NYS certified pesticide applicators license.

Responsibilities

Establishing and maintaining agricultural field trials
Collecting soil, plant, pest, disease, and environmental data
Setting and monitoring insect traps
Collecting, sorting, and identifying insects and other agricultural pests
Harvesting crops and evaluating plant quality
Managing research data and maintaining accurate field records
Assisting with educational events and outreach programs
Supporting development of fact sheets, web resources, and extension materials
Uploading and managing content within Cornell's outreach platforms
Driving a university vehicle to research farms and field sites throughout the region

Benefits

Comprehensive health care options
Generous retirement contributions
Access to wellness programs
Employee discounts with local and national retail brands
Health and personal leave
Three weeks of vacation
13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1.
Two additional floating holidays
Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program
Tuition aid for external education
Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program