Field Research Technician (Seasonal)

This seasonal position (March through October) is a part of the High Plains alfalfa breeding program. This person will report to and assist the farm manager in managing the field operations and agronomic work for the alfalfa program at the Garden City, KS. location. Will coordinate the pesticide, fertility, cultivation, irrigation, and harvest fieldwork. They will also play an integral role in the alfalfa breeding research effort testing location throughout the high plains.

Responsibilities:

Field Activities - 60%

Assist Farm Manager in timing of field spraying, irrigation, fertilization, etc.Hands on farm field workPlanting, harvest, and mowingWill involve driving small lawn tractors and other small vehicles to help with tasks around the station. Lawn care and other maintenance tasks.

Maintenance - 25%

Maintenance of equipment, field site, and shop areas

Other Research-related - 15%

Sampling FYT’s, grinding samplesLabeling and shipping Packaging and labeling seed for FYT’sAssist with drone program

Education/Experience/Knowledge (to be able to perform this job): 

Must be at least 18 years old with high school diploma or GED equivalent.  Previous farm, plant or greenhouse experience preferred, but not necessary.Prefer 2 years of operational farm management experience or equivalent responsibilityUnderstanding of agricultural cultural practices (e.g., ground preparation, weed control, fertility management)Understanding of equipment operation and maintenanceComputer proficiency for GPS tractor operation and other equipment requiring interaction with electronics requiring configuration or setupCapable of lifting 50 lbs.Capable of operating farm equipmentCapable of working a non-traditional work schedule based on seasonal and situation demands including extended hours and work weekAbility to obtain and maintain a Kansas driver’s licenseAbility to be on-site within 30 minutes if issues arise

Additional Comments:

Have critical thinking skills, strong technical background in research, ability to work independently with limited supervision, take initiative, strong computer skills especially with Excel, able to clearly articulate work direction and able to communicate with all levels of research staff in an effective and timely manner.

Steel Toed Shoes may be required for certain activities. FGI will provides an allowance for PPE requirements such as steel toed shoes for workers that will be conducting certain outdoor activities in the summer that require PPE protection.

Wage: $20.00 per hour

About Land O'Lakes, Inc.

Join us and be part of a Fortune 250, farmer- and member-owned cooperative that is reimagining the business of food. We have been named a Top Workplace by Indeed and LinkedIn, and to the TIME 100 Most Influential Companies list.

Benefits for most full-time roles include medical, dental, vision, PTO, life & disability insurance, education assistance, a 401k and a variety of well-being resources. Most part-time employees are eligible for prorated PTO, holiday pay, employee development programs, prorated education assistance, and a 401(k).

Land O'Lakes, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) M/F/Vets/Disabled. The company maintains a drug-free workforce, including post-employment substance abuse testing pursuant to a Drug and Alcohol Policy.

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