Temporary Research Technician

This job posting is for a temporary (11-month), full-time Assistant Research Technician position with the Sweetpotato and Potato Breeding and Genetics lab at NCSU. Our lab is a leading force in breeding new Sweetpotato varieties for the growers in North Carolina, as well as those growing Sweetpotato around the world! We apply both traditional and molecular breeding techniques to solve emerging problem in the field such as pathogens, drought, and changing markets. Our website: https://potatoes.cals.ncsu.edu/

The advertised position will revolve around our Sweetpotato research season. Primary duties include assisting with transplanting, collecting, weighing, rating, grading and organization of harvested sweetpotatoes on research farms. A strong work ethic and the ability to lift 50 pounds are critical. As our research program is based in Raleigh, there will be substantial amounts of paid travel time to research stations associated with this position (transportation is provided). Typical days include 1.5 hours of travel to research stations, followed by an 8 hour work day in the field, and a 1.5 hour drive back. We’ll limit hours to around 40/week, which many times results in 4 day work weeks. Assisting with plant care and propagation in the greenhouse, as well as occasional lab work will also be expected. During the winter months, hand pollinations and propagating in the greenhouse become our largest priority. The applicant is expected to assist in installing and rating research experiments and trials, as well as summarizing the results. Additional duties include maintenance of greenhouse equipment and organization of storage areas.

We are looking for applicants to commit to the full season, which runs from the end of March until the middle of November. However, additional availability past that window is desirable for candidates. The state of North Carolina stipulates a maximum 11 month employment period followed by a 1 month leave of absence for any employees in this position. Benefits are not included in this position.

Applicants with any advanced training or education in horticulture or a related field will also be given preference.

Job Type: Temporary

Pay: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour

Work Location: In person