Temporary Laboratory and Research Technician - L. Sosnoskie Team (Horticulture Section); Geneva, New York

Cornell University•City of Ithaca, NY

8h•$22•Onsite

About The Position

CALS is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University’s second-largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: natural and human systems; food, energy, and environmental resources; and social, physical, and economic well-being. Cornell AgriTech serves an evolving agricultural sector that remains an economic engine for New York state, valued at over $36.7 billion a year. Originally established by an act of the New York State Legislature on June 26, 1880, “for the purpose of promoting agriculture in its various branches by scientific investigation and experiment”, Cornell AgriTech has grown to become the important hub for food and agriculture research and extension that it is today. As the only horticulture program in the Ivy League, our faculty, staff and students work to shape the food systems and landscapes of today and tomorrow. Our faculty work across New York to make discoveries and share knowledge about fruits, vegetables and landscape plants. They are called on by farmers, golf course managers, urban foresters, government officials and many others to solve problems around the globe. As the Temporary Laboratory/Research Technician, you will assist with field, laboratory, and technology-based research activities supporting weed management and precision agriculture projects.

Requirements

High School Diploma and completed coursework in agronomy, plant science, horticulture, agricultural engineering, environmental science, biology, or related field, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions
Ability to lift and carry up to 40–50 pounds (field equipment, sensors, etc.)
Basic understanding of plant identification (crops and weeds)
Careful and accurate data collection skills
Basic computer proficiency (Excel, Google Sheets, or similar data entry platforms)
Willingness to learn operation of field-based robotic or sensor systems
Strong attention to detail
Ability to follow detailed research protocols
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Good organizational and time-management skills
Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position and have reliable transportation as well as have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver’s license and be cleared to drive for university business.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s Degree in plant biology, botany, weed science, crop science, plant physiology, agricultural systems, or precision agriculture
Experience with: Field research or agricultural labor
Herbicide trials or weed management research
Small plot equipment
Robotics, sensors, drones, or autonomous systems
GPS or GIS software, Multispectral or NDVI data collection
Basic statistical software (R, SAS, or similar)
Programming experience (Python, Arduino, ROS, etc.)
Familiarity with weed identification at seedling and mature stages
Data management and quality control procedures
Mechanical aptitude and comfort with troubleshooting equipment

Responsibilities

Assisting with the establishment, maintenance, and evaluation of field research plots
Conducting visual weed control ratings and crop injury assessments using standardized scales
Assisting with setup, calibration, and deployment of field-based robotic systems
Entering and organizing field data in spreadsheets or research databases
Conducting preliminary data checks for accuracy and completeness
Preparing field supplies and equipment prior to research activities
Assisting with harvest data collection and sample processing
Following all institutional, pesticide safety, and field research safety protocols