Temporary Vegetable Field Research Technician (Cornell Cooperative Extension); Bativa, New York

Cornell University•New York, NY

2d•$23•Onsite

About The Position

The Cornell Vegetable Program (CVP) is a leading agricultural extension program in New York, serving commercial vegetable farms across a large multi-county region in the Finger Lakes and Western parts of the state. As the Temporary Vegetable Field Research Technician, you will provide essential technical support to team members in conducting research and outreach activities aimed at improving the profitability and sustainability of the vegetable industry. Your role will involve scouting commercial vegetable fields and research trials to assess insect, disease, and weed pressures. This position is based at the Cornell Cooperative Extension office in Batavia, New York, and requires regular travel throughout Western New York. This is a temporary position, working 39 hours per week, available from August through October, with a possible extension based on candidate availability. Occasional evening hours may be scheduled for data collection or to support educational meetings.

Requirements

High School Diploma and 6+ months of experience in agriculture, field biology, ecology, or a similar setting, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience utilizing current computer technology, i.e., Windows - Excel/Word/PowerPoint.
Proven experience in communicating effectively, both written and oral.
Possess excellent organizational experience.
Knowledge of prioritizing multiple activities and tasks while meeting established time frames.
Excellent customer service; must work effectively with clientele.
Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather.
Visual concentration and attention to detail are needed to detect pests and pest damage.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
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.
Must exercise sound and ethical judgment when acting on behalf of the University.

Nice To Haves

Coursework in vegetable production, entomology, plant pathology, weed science, horticulture, agronomy, field biology, or natural resources/ecology.
Experience assisting research projects, including data collection and summary.

Responsibilities

Scout for and assess insect, disease, and weed pressures in commercial vegetable fields and research trials.
Assist with crop harvests, measuring, and recording yields.
Collect field data from research and demonstration projects.
Prepare data tables, charts, etc., for effective data visualization.
Transport samples to storage sites or research facilities for further analysis.