Ag Specialist - Stripling Irrigation Research Park

Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia's oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,000 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 40,000 students including over 30,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 18 schools and colleges, as well as a medical partnership with Augusta University housed on the UGA Health Sciences Campus in Athens.

To be determined by Superintendent.

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. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

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Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

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.

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.

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.

Will work independently in a variety of weather conditions. Will work from lifts at various heights, bend, lift, and carry heavy objects.

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.

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.

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.

Assist in all phases of research crop preparation and production, including mowing, tillage, planting, scouting, cultivating, spraying, harvesting, etc.

Install and operate associated irrigation-related sensors and smartphone apps, ensure sensor and app data is collected properly.

Assist with repair and maintenance of farm equipment (tractors, sprayers,
implements, etc.).

Assist with research and outreach activities like field days, 4-H camps, student tours, VIP tours, extension trainings, etc.