Research Technician I

Position Overview

Research Technician I perform entry-level technical support work for research and seed production activities under general supervision. This role supports Texas Native Seeds projects by assisting with planting, irrigation, pest management, and harvesting of native seeds. The position also contributes to research efforts through field plot establishment, data collection, and equipment operation. Work involves routine tasks in both field and greenhouse environments.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Seed Production and Plant Care

• Plants, waters, and maintains greenhouse operations.
• Assists in planting, maintaining, and harvesting research and production fields.
• Supports pest control, irrigation, and crop protection efforts.
• Operates vehicles and farm equipment including tractors, combines, tillage implements, sprayers, shredders, and planters.
• Performs research and crop production duties using farm machinery.

Research Support and Data Collection and Management

• Aids in the establishment of research plots and assists with field experiments.
• Collects samples and measurement data from field and greenhouse experiments.
• Implements and maintains data collection protocol and summarize field trails.
• Collects, compiles, and records field data.
• Performs basic computations and assists with reporting.
• Assists graduate students in data collection.

Seed processing and Lab Support

• Cleans seed, performs germination tests, and reports findings.
• Assist with laboratory and technical procedures.
• Operates seed cleaning equipment
• Records and catalogs harvested seed

Field work and General Labor

• Performs labor intensive tasks in various weather conditions.
• Assists staff with major projects and experiments
• Follows all policies, processes and procedures to ensure safe work practices.

Other Duties

• The above represents the major duties, responsibilities, and authorities of this job, and is not intended to be a complete list of all tasks and functions. Other duties may be assigned

Required Qualifications

• Education – High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience – Two years of related experience in research support, agriculture, or similar field

Required Licenses and Certifications

• Valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with native plant identification
• Experience in agricultural or ecological research
• Familiarity with greenhouse operations and seed handling
• Basic data collection and analysis experience
• Familiarity with technical equipment
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and establish procedures
• Basic knowledge of plant science, agriculture or ecology
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills

Other Requirements

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors exposed to various weather conditions, potential allergens, elevated noise levels, and heat
• Ability to move up to 50 lbs with assistance
• Ability to move light, medium or heavy objects with assistance.
• Ability to travel independently to other and/or remote locations by driving and/or flying on commercial airlines

Other Requirements and Factors

• This position is security sensitive
• This position will require export-control authorization prior to starting employment.
• This position requires compliance with state and federal laws/codes and Texas A&M University System/TAMU policies, regulations, rules and procedures
• All tasks and job responsibilities must be performed safely without injury to self or others in compliance with System and University safety requirements
• This position may require up to 10% (specify percentage) or more travel
• This position may require work beyond normal office hours and/or work on weekends not to exceed 40 hours in a week.
• This position is funded from grant and/or contract funding, which is renewed through provisions of the grantor of the contract. Therefore, this position is contingent upon continuation of funding from these grants and/or contracts, as well as satisfactory job performance