Research Technician I (Part Time)
Posting Number: req22563
Department: School of Plant Sciences-Ext
Location: Yuma
Address: 6425 W 8th St., Yuma, AZ 85364 USA
Position Highlights
The School of Plant Sciences is seeking applications for a Research Technician I. The position will support field and lab-based research activities focused on organic and conventional vegetable and row crop production systems in the desert Southwest, with an emphasis on nutrition management irrigation and nutrition management, soil health, and sustainable agriculture. This position will assist with installing and maintaining sensors, collecting and processing soil, plant, and water data, and supporting ongoing experiments related to crops such as lettuce, melons, and other regionally important row crops. The technician will collaborate with undergraduate students and growers to contribute to data-driven solutions for regional agricultural challenges.The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Assist with setup, maintenance, and monitoring of field experiments, including planting, irrigation scheduling, sensor installation, and data collection in organic and conventional cropping systems.
- Prepare and process plant and soil samples for analysis.
- Assist in maintaining laboratory organization, supplies, and sample logs.
- Install, calibrate, and maintain soil moisture, salinity, and other environmental sensors, support data download, entry, and organization.
- Assist with procurement, equipment maintenance, data summaries, and logistical support for research activities, including preparation for outreach events and field days.
- Work alongside undergraduate students, providing guidance and support in field and lab tasks.
- Communicate with growers and stakeholders as needed.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
- Familiarity with installing and maintaining soil moisture, salinity sensors, and flux towers.
- Ability to collect, label, and process soil, plant, and water samples accurately.
- Comfortable managing data using Excel or similar tools for organization and basic analysis.
- Strong attention to detail, good communication skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
- Knowledge of field research practices in both organic and conventional vegetable and row crop systems, including soil, plant, and water sampling methods.
- Skill in installing, operating, and maintaining field-based sensors (e.g., soil moisture, salinity, temperature) and flux towers for environmental data collection.
- Ability to manage, organize, and analyze research data using Excel or similar tools, with strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to follow research protocols, collaborate with students and stakeholders, and adapt to evolving research needs.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency.
- Must have a valid driver's license and ability to drive according to
the University Fleet Safety Policy.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience conducting fieldwork in agricultural settings, especially in vegetable or row crop systems.
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Full Time/Part Time: Part Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week: 10
Job FTE: 0.25
Work Calendar: Fiscal
Job Category: Research
Benefits Eligible: No Benefits
Rate of Pay: Dependent on experience
Compensation Type: hourly rate
Grade
2
Compensation Guidance
The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.
Career Stream and Level
OC1
Job Family
Research & Lab
Job Function
Research
Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies: 1
Contact Information for Candidates
Ali Mohammed, Ph.D.
alim3@arizona.edu
Open Until Filled: Yes
Documents Needed to Apply: Resume and Cover Letter
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Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.
