Ag Specialist

Position Information Classification Title Agriculture/Forestry Technical/Paraprofessional/Professional FLSA Non-Exempt FTE 1.00 Minimum Qualifications Requires technical knowledge in the field acquired through an apprenticeship, a 2-year degree, or professional certificate. Please contact your Human Resources office for an evaluation of education/experience in lieu of the required minimum qualifications. Preferred Qualifications Position Summary The Ag Specialist will be a part of the Stripling Park team and the position's duties will include assisting the Superintendent and senior staff with planning, organizing and conducting scientific research studies in conjunction with scientists. Duties will include, but are not limited to: assisting with plot land preparation, assisting with crop production (tillage, planting, scouting, cultivation, spraying, harvesting), operating, maintaining and repairing farm equipment (tractors, sprayers, harvesters, etc.), operating irrigation and water conservation research equipment and facilities, coordinating irrigation scheduling and application as well as researcher irrigation protocols (plots, treatments, replications), communicating with research scientists regarding a variety of research programs, experimental projects and tests, sensor installation and configuration, performing irrigation system maintenance and repairs, assisting Superintendent with water conservation projects, maintaining irrigation records and producing year-end water application records, and participating in all other aspects of the research and outreach activities at the Research Park, like field days, 4-H camps, student tours, VIP tours, extension trainings, etc. The role also assists in the selection, training, and supervision of farm and seasonal temp workers and performs related work as required. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies Considerable experience in row crop production, including operation of tractors, sprayers, harvesters, and irrigation systems (drip and/or overhead). Experience carrying out tillage, planting, scouting, cultivating, spraying, harvesting, and irrigation operations. Desire someone who possesses mechanical skills, including welding, for working on tractors and other equipment and experience in hauling equipment. Ability to follow both oral and written instructions. Basic personal computer skills (such as email). The work schedule may occasionally include weekends, holidays, and early mornings / late evenings. Individual should have, at a minimum, the GA private pesticide license or obtain such license during the 1st year of employment. Valid driver's license. Physical Demands Will work independently in a variety of weather conditions. Will work from lifts at various heights, bend, lift, and carry heavy objects. Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes Is this a Position of Trust? Yes Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No Does this position require a P-Card? No Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) Yes Credit and P-Card policy Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website. Background Investigation Policy Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website. Duties/Responsibilities Duties/Responsibilities Install and operate irrigation systems such as laterals, pivots, drip, solid sets and hard hoses according to research protocols. Perform irrigation system maintenance and repairs. Percentage of time 40 Duties/Responsibilities Assist in all phases of research crop preparation and production, including mowing, tillage, planting, scouting, cultivating, spraying, harvesting, etc. Percentage of time 30 Duties/Responsibilities Install and operate associated irrigation-related sensors and smartphone apps, ensure sensor and app data is collected properly. Percentage of time 10 Duties/Responsibilities Assist with repair and maintenance of farm equipment (tractors, sprayers, implements, etc.). Percentage of time 15 Duties/Responsibilities Assist with research and outreach activities like field days, 4-H camps, student tours, VIP tours, extension trainings, etc. Percentage of time 5 Contact Information Recruitment Contact Contact Details For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below. Recruitment Contact Name Calvin Perry Recruitment Contact Email Recruitment Contact Phone Posting Specific Questions Required fields are indicated with an asterisk ( ). Applicant Documents Required Documents Optional Documents Resume/CV Cover Letter List of References with Contact Information Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact University HR . The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status.