Research Technician
Athens
Friday, 22 May 2026
This position supports the operations and activities of the National Proving Grounds located at UGA Grand Farm. The role involves assisting with the day-to-day implementation of research and demonstration initiatives surrounding precision agriculture and smart weed control technologies, as well as contributing to overall farm functionality. This position is a grant funded appointment which is expected to end 5 years after the start date. The position may be extended beyond the initial term, contingent upon continued funding. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies Basic understanding of the scientific method as it applies to plant research Familiarity with row-crop and vegetable agriculture in the southeastern United States Ability to operate large farm equipment within confined spaces Willingness to work as part of an effective team and grow professionally, team player, effective listener, and communicator Basic understanding of precision agriculture equipment (guidance, rate control, mapping, etc.) and its operation Ability to rapidly learn and apply new concepts and have a hands-on, problem-solving mindset Working knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite Physical Demands Operate large farm equipment within confined spaces Work outside in all weather conditions, weekends, nights, holidays, etc. Lift at least 75 pounds Driving as needed to perform job duties Hauling agricultural equipment Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes Is this a Position of Trust? Yes Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No Does this position require a P-Card? No Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) Yes Credit and P-Card policy Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website. Background Investigation Policy Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website. Duties/ Responsibilities Duties/ Responsibilities Assists the team in all aspects of crop management/production – field prep, planting, pesticides, fertilizers, irrigation, cultivation, harvest, etc. Percentage of time 30 Duties/ Responsibilities Maintains and manages precision and robotic technology tools throughout the season and coordinates with the team on application timing. This includes routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and ensuring equipment and tools are field ready. Percentage of time 30 Duties/ Responsibilities Assists the team in performing critical agronomic measurements such as soil sampling, plant stand counts, and phenotyping to ensure the integrity of trial results. Beyond data entry, assist with the physical setup of plots, equipment maintenance, and post-harvest sample processing, ensuring that all research protocols are followed with meticulous attention to detail. Percentage of time 20 Duties/ Responsibilities Manages data workflows from collection to storage and potentially preliminary analysis. Includes the operating of precision technologies such as yield monitors, etc. Percentage of time 15 Duties/ Responsibilities Perform other duties as assigned. Percentage of time 5 Contact Information Recruitment Contact Contact Details For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below. Recruitment Contact Name Lenin Rodriguez Recruitment Contact Email Lenin. Rodriguez@uga.edu Recruitment Contact Phone 440-381-5627 Posting Specific Questions Required fields are indicated with an asterisk ( - ). - Do you have a valid Driver's license? YES NO Applicant Documents Required Documents Resume/ CV Cover Letter List of References with Contact Information Optional Documents