Position Summary:

This position provides technical support for the Vegetable Soil Systems Lab in the Department of Horticulture at Michigan State University. Responsibilities include assisting in and overseeing field, greenhouse, and laboratory research related to soil health and nutrient management in vegetable cropping systems; planning, designing, and executing experiments; reviewing relevant literature and experimental protocols; organizing and analyzing research data; preparing reports, publications, and presentations; maintaining field and laboratory equipment; ordering supplies; coordinating student labor; and working closely with lab members (supervisor, graduate students, post-docs, and visiting scholars) to ensure effective program operations and completion of research projects. Research and extension activities will take place on campus and at MSU research stations and grower fields across Michigan. This position is physically demanding, requiring the ability to work outdoors for extended periods under varied weather conditions.
Faculty: Minimum Qualifications Support Staff: Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in horticulture, agronomy, ecology or related field of study in the plant, soil, and environmental sciences; one to three years of related and expansive work experience in field and laboratory research techniques, crop production practices, and farm equipment operation; experience with experimental design, statistical analysis of research data, and modern computer applications; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. This position requires possession of a valid vehicle operator's license and possession of a Commercial Pesticide Applicator license.
Desired Qualifications:

M.S. degree in horticulture, agronomy, ecology, weed science or related field with applications to nutrient cycling in agricultural systems; experience with vegetable production, cover crops, and soil nutrient and water management; demonstrated proficiency in operating and transporting farm equipment, including but not limited to tractors, planters, mowers, sprayers, and tillage implements; experience collecting and analyzing soil, plant, and water samples; experience with soil biogeochemical analyses and laboratory protocols; experience using environmental sensors, automated data logging systems, and/or small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for data collection; experience with SAS, R, and other statistical, data visualization, or database management programs; experience developing and delivering public presentations and writing publications; excellent organizational skills and attention to detail; excellent oral and written communication skills in English; ability to work well both individually and collaboratively with a diverse team of professionals and students.