Independently and meticulously conduct research techniques in the field. Collect plant and soil samples and prepare them for lab analysis. Use of a GPS to collect geographic coordinates (latitude/longitude) at sampling sites. Troubleshoot equipment issues and make appropriate adjustments. Collect additional field observations (e.g., soil and crop images). The employee may be required to present data to the lab, the stakeholder community, at extension field days or at a scientific conference or similar. Employee will be responsible to drive a state vehicle to and from research sites.

Data organization and management of data collected from the field and must be protected and organized in a way that allows for efficient movement of data from location to location. Independently conduct laboratory procedures including data entry/upload of plant and soil data, spectral data, and field observations into a database. Determine best method for data integration from multiple data strains to support model development. Must understand data collected from various instruments used in the study. Responsible for the data section of quarterly reports to granting agency and other project milestones.

Communicate with project participants and team members on logistics and timing of treatment application in STEP competition. Communicate with farmers/growers if they want to visit trail area. Coordinate with industry representatives regarding products and procedures for testing. Writing reports, newsletters, prepare presentations and assist with extension and school visits.

BS or MS in soil science, ecology, natural resources, environmental sciences or related discipline. Experience in soil sampling and proficiency in databases (e.g., Excel spreadsheets and SQL)