Agricultural Research Technician

Position Summary

Arizona Plant Breeders Inc. (APB) is seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Field Research and Harvest Technician to support cereal breeding and research operations. This position is responsible for assisting with planting, field maintenance, research plot management, harvesting activities, equipment operation, and data collection. The successful candidate will operate research equipment, troubleshoot basic mechanical and software issues, manage harvest data systems, and support a wide range of field and research activities throughout the year.

This position requires a combination of agricultural field experience, mechanical aptitude, computer skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented research environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Field Operations

• Assist with planting, harvesting, and management of research plots.
• Support field preparation, weed control, and general field maintenance activities.
• Collect, label, process, and organize seed and research materials.
• Assist with field observations, plot measurements, and data collection activities.
• Load, unload, move, and store agricultural materials, supplies, and equipment.
• Perform other field and research support activities as assigned.

Equipment Operation and Maintenance

• Operate agricultural equipment including small-plot seeders, research combines, tractors, and related machinery.
• Conduct routine equipment inspections, cleaning, and preventative maintenance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve basic mechanical and operational issues during planting and harvest activities.
• Maintain equipment and work areas in a safe and organized condition.
• Follow all company safety policies and procedures.

Harvest Data Management

• Operate and manage the HarvestMaster data collection system installed on research harvesting equipment.
• Upload field maps, plot files, and harvest information into the HarvestMaster system prior to harvest.
• Verify the accuracy and completeness of harvest data collected from research plots.
• Export, organize, and maintain harvest data files for use by breeding and research staff.
• Assist with electronic recordkeeping, seed inventory management, and research data organization.

Computer and Administrative Support

• Utilize Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications to organize and manage research data.
• Maintain accurate records of field operations, equipment use, harvest activities, and research data.
• Assist with data entry, file management, and preparation of reports as needed.
• Support breeding and research staff with various operational and administrative tasks.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent required.
• A coursework in agriculture, agronomy, agricultural technology, mechanics, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience operating agricultural equipment, tractors, combines, or farm machinery required.
• Experience working in agricultural research, farming, seed production, or related industries is preferred.
• Must have valid driver's license and good driving record.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Ability to learn and operate HarvestMaster and other agricultural data collection systems.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues.
• Ability to upload and manage field maps and electronic files used in research operations.
• Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Dependable work ethic and willingness to assist with a variety of operational tasks.
• Must be able to travel out of state, up to a week at a time.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, dust, and uneven terrain.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform physical labor for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to operate agricultural equipment safely.

Work Environment

This position involves extensive outdoor work in agricultural field settings as well as periodic office and shop activities. Seasonal workloads may require extended hours during planting, harvest, and other critical field operations. The successful candidate must be flexible and willing to assist wherever needed to support the company's research and breeding programs.

About Arizona Plant Breeders Inc.

Arizona Plant Breeders Inc. is a private plant breeding company focused on developing improved cereal grain varieties adapted to irrigated and desert production systems. APB conducts breeding, testing, and seed increase activities to deliver high-performing varieties that meet the needs of growers and industry partners.

Pre-employment Requirements:

Background screen, drug testing and employment verification

Applicants have rights under Federal and State/Local Employment Laws as recommended by the U.S. Department of Labor https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/workers

Any hired applicant will be required to submit proof of their legal right to work in the U.S. when submitting their application for employment.

Pay: $25.38 - $30.56 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance

Work Location: In person