Summary:

The Research Technician supports the Shakopee Station programs including nurseries, yield trials and seed productions through field activities including planting, thinning, cultivating, irrigating, spraying, harvest and general field activities.

This position will also support the team with equipment maintenance and fabrication, general building maintenance and grounds care.
General schedule is 8 AM to 4:30 PM Monday through Friday, but must be able to work overtime hours as needed, especially during planting and harvest

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Assist with Disease Nursery Programs: Field preparation, planting, oversee thinning and weeding crews, operate irrigation systems.
• Assist with seed increases of regulated events: Prepare and/or build equipment and structures, field preparation, planting, structure assembly, plot maintenance, harvest, seed processing.
• Assist with yield trials: planting, thinning, weeding, spraying, and general harvest activities.
• Strong mechanic and welding skills for repair, maintenance and fabrication of research equipment, as well as general building maintenance, grounds care and equipment maintenance.
• Operate and maintain field equipment, tractors, trucks and forklift.
• Drive commercial trucks to transport equipment and supplies.
• Application of pesticides as needed.
• Oversee part-time and temporary labor for weeding, thinning and plot work.
• Organize and manage shop activities and order shop supplies.
• Overnight travel as needed, some out of state.
• Other duties as needed by the business.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science or Associate degree in mechanics, agronomy, agriculture, biology, or a related field preferred.
• One year experience in agriculture and seed research is also preferred.
• Must have or ability to obtain a CDL, and Pesticide Applicator License during the first 90 days of employment.
• Able to drive tractor and forklift.
• Proven welding and mechanical skills for repair, maintenance and fabrication of equipment and general building maintenance.
• Basic and working computer MS Office skills.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds without restrictions.
• Ability to pay attention to details and follow specific instructions.

If you meet the qualifications for this position, please send cover letter and resume to:

Human Resources
Careers@betaseed.com

Please include Job Title and # as follows: RTGM071212

Only qualified candidates will be considered.