Research Technician I

Texas A&M University System • Lubbock, TX

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Technician I, under general supervision, provides technical support for field, laboratory, and greenhouse research activities focused on soil health, water conservation, cropping systems, irrigation management, and agricultural sustainability in the Texas High Plains. The technician assists with establishing, maintaining, and collecting data for research and demonstration projects while supporting laboratory analyses, equipment operation, and overall research program logistics.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Two years of related experience.
• Valid Texas driver's license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of employment.
• Ability to follow detailed scientific protocols.
• Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for the operation and maintenance of research equipment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

Nice To Haves

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, Agricultural Systems Management, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or a related discipline.
• Experience operating agricultural field equipment.
• Experience with soil and water sampling procedures.
• Familiarity with GPS, GIS, remote sensing, environmental monitoring equipment, or agricultural sensors.
• Experience with Microsoft Excel, databases, and electronic data collection systems.
• Knowledge of irrigation systems and crop production in semi-arid environments.
• Experience working safely in agricultural research settings.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the establishment, maintenance, and harvesting of agronomic field research trials.
• Collect soil, water, plant, and environmental samples according to established protocols.
• Support irrigation research activities, including the installation, maintenance, and monitoring of field instrumentation and sensors.
• Operate agricultural equipment, including ATVs, pickups, tractors, planters, sprayers, and other research equipment.
• Maintain accurate records of field activities, observations, and sample inventories.
• Assist with travel to off-station research sites throughout Texas and neighboring states as needed, which requires operating an agency vehicle.
• Prepare soil, water, and plant samples for laboratory analysis.
• Operate and maintain standard laboratory equipment.
• Assist with laboratory analyses related to soil fertility, soil health, water quality, and agronomic assessments.
• Maintain laboratory inventories, order supplies, and ensure proper organization of laboratory facilities.
• Adhere to laboratory safety protocols and university regulations.
• Enter, organize, verify, and maintain research data using spreadsheets, databases, and other software platforms.
• Assist in the preparation of summaries, reports, and research documentation.
• Support quality assurance and quality control procedures to ensure data integrity.
• Maintain research vehicles, field equipment, irrigation systems, and laboratory equipment.
• Troubleshoot minor equipment issues and coordinate repairs as needed.
• Assist with research site preparation, material procurement, and inventory tracking.
• Assist faculty, graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and visiting scientists with research activities.
• Support extension demonstrations, field days, producer meetings, and educational outreach events.
• Participate in required training and professional development activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M AgriLife contributing to employee health and basic life premiums
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas
• Employee Wellness Initiative for Texas A&M AgriLife

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED