Description & Details:
Assist the weed scientist at the Center in conducting weed control and cropping systems research. Coordinate the preparation and maintenance of research plots according to specific research objectives including land preparation, fertilization, planting, chemical application, harvest and data collection. Maintain and repair equipment used in field and lab research. Maintain the Agronomy Research Lab and Greenhouse facilities in good working order including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Supervise temporary employees and provide instruction on safety procedures.
This position includes, but is not limited to, the following responsibilities:
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Assist the weed scientist to complete weed management studies.
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Work with registered, restricted and experimental pesticides including measuring, mixing and applying in a field and greenhouse setting.
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Maintain and drive farm equipment.
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Maintenance of Agronomy Research Lab and Greenhouse.
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Maintain equipment used in lab and greenhouse research.
The research specialist must be able to carry out these and other duties as assigned with general and minimal guidance from the weed scientist and the NCREC Director. The research specialist is also expected to develop close collaborations with faculty and staff in the NDSU Main Campus, North Central Research Extension Center personnel, and other Research Extension Centers.
The North Central Research Extension Center is one of seven out-state NDSU research extension centers. The center is located one mile south of Minot, a city of 45,000 in north central North Dakota. Minot is an All-American City with excellent health, educational, recreational, and community facilities and a modern international airport. The area is noted for small grain, oilseed, pulse crop, livestock, and energy production. More information about the area is available at http://www.minotchamber.org/community/.
Hiring Range: $55,000.00 - $90,000.00 DOE
Pay is based on several factors, including budget, labor market, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and/or certification and other business considerations.
Minimum Qualifications:
Experience operating field equipment such as planters, tractors, combines, spraying equipment, fifth wheel trailers, and tillage equipment.
Experience with loading, transporting and unloading farm equipment.
Knowledge of field equipment maintenance for planters, tractors, combines, and tillage equipment.
Experience with mixing and applying pesticides for crop production and knowledge of North Dakota field crops.
Knowledge of building and grounds maintenance.
Computer knowledge to input studies and maintain records for chemical application.
Good oral, written and interpersonal communication skills.
Bachelor's degree + 2 years' experience or Associate's Degree + 4 years' experience or equivalent experience (6 years)
Preferred Qualifications:
Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot, repair, and fabricate components using appropriate hand tools, power tools, welders, and fabrication techniques.
Greenhouse experience (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing)
Supervisory experience
Master's Degree or Bachelor's Degree + 3 years' experience or Associate's Degree + 5 years' experience or equivalent experience (8 years)
CDL Class A
Commercial Pesticide Applicators License
Applicant Materials Required:
Closing date is September 18, 2026 or until filled.
Required application documents include: 1) a cover letter describing how the stated qualifications are met; 2) curriculum vitae or resume; 3) contact information (including phone numbers, email, and addresses) of three references
Join a workplace that invests in your well-being, your future, and your success.
Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:
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100% employer-paid health insurance premiums for single and family coverage
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Choice of PPO/Basic or High Deductible Health Plan with HSA
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Coverage begins the first of the month after your hire date
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Wellness incentives for healthy lifestyle participation
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Employer retirement contributions ranging from 7.5% up to an impressive 12.26%, depending on position
(One of the strongest retirement packages in the region!) - Your future is a priority, and it shows.
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Generous annual leave, sick leave, and 10 paid holidays
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Employee Assistance Program for confidential support
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Supportive work-life balance
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Tuition waivers for employees (up to three classes per calendar year)
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50% tuition waiver for spouse/partner and dependents
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Supplemental Life, Dental, Vision, Long-Term Care
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Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care)
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Supplemental Retirement Plans
About Us:
North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student focused, land-grant, research university. We educate leaders who solve national and global challenges by providing affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.
NDSU is in the highest Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, R1, granted to the top research institutions in the country.
NDSU has offices across the state of North Dakota, and the main campus is in Fargo.
NDSU is committed to fostering a community where differences are recognized as strengths. Rooted in our land-grant mission, we work together to meet the needs of North Dakota and its communities through education, research and outreach.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
NDSU does not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of age, color, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, participation in lawful off-campus activity, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, spousal relationship to current employee, or veteran status, as applicable. Direct inquiries to: Vice Provost, Title IX/ADA Coordinator, Old Main 201, NDSU Main Campus, Fargo, ND, 58108, 701-231-7708, [email protected].
No Smoking Notice:
As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.
Veteran’s Preference Notice:
This position is subject to North Dakota Veteran’s Preference requirements.
Reasonable Accommodation Information:
North Dakota State University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, please contact Human Resources at 701-231-8961 or [email protected].
