Job Description

Position Summary:

The research associate is an active participant in all Crops Testing activities and is expected to collaborate as a member of dynamic research group that includes the Crops Testing team, graduate students, Extension agents, agricultural research station personnel, agricultural company representatives, and staff at CSU and other universities. Key duties include field data collection, records, and reporting, field operations and all aspects of equipment operations.

The Crops Testing Program conducts small plot variety trials on farms and research stations for grain and forage sorghum, winter wheat (grain and forage), dry bean (various classes), cowpea/black-eyed pea, sunflower (confection and oil), corn (grain and silage), proso millet, and winter canola. We also conduct a range of agronomy trials, try new crops with potential in the area, and test new plant or soil applied products coming onto the agriculture market for use by farmers. We strive to be a source of useful information and serve as the “Consumer Reports” for farmers.

Full Consideration Date:

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but for full consideration, please submit your materials by 11:59 pm, (MT) March 23, 2026.

Essential Job Duties:

• Research Project Management: Plant, manage, and harvest crop plot trials. Communicate closely with co-workers, supervisor, and program director. Operate farm equipment, manage trial alley or weed control spraying, lead harvest and planting. Collect data (planting, observations, and harvest). Provide determined treatments and operations in a timely manner to help optimize the best possible results and outputs at regular and contract sites. Develop and maintain ongoing relationships with site cooperators to ensure best possible trial site selection, utilization, and cultivating goodwill among cooperators and suppliers. Collect, record, maintain, and transmit data to team members to allow information to be published. Assist in trial implementation.

• Equipment Management: Transport and operate necessary equipment to trial sites. Service, repair, and modify field and transportation equipment unless determined that that activity needs to be completed by a repair shop. If existing equipment is incapable of meeting stated protocols, make necessary modifications or advise team of equipment attributes and limitations. Make informed recommendations to supervisor. Incorporate new technologies and make improvements in existing planting, harvesting and transportation resources utilized by the program to realize more accurate and consistent data and a safer work environment. Maintain and repair facility and equipment that stays at Akron facility. Maximize work progress in time constrained periods.

Supervision: N/A

Conditions of Employment:

• Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for all new hires)

• Ability to meet the physical demands of this position which includes frequent heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs.), manual dexterity, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching and handling.

• Ability to accommodate a Flexible Work Arrangement, to include possible evening and weekend hours during peak seasons.

• Qualified Pesticide Applicator License from Colorado Department of Agriculture or ability to acquire within 3 months of hire.

• Valid Class A CDL driver’s license or ability to obtain one with 3 months of hire.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: Research Associate I or B.S./B.A. degree or Master’s degree.

• Experience: Research Associate I + 3 years experience or B.S./B.A. degree + 3 years professional experience or Master’s degree.

• Demonstrated computer skills (e.g., MS Office Suite – Excel, Word, Outlook and GPS technology).

• Communication skills (verbal and written) including data collection, quality control, documentation, and record keeping.

• Ability to operate and maintain farm equipment such as tractors, combines, and sprayers.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with crop production systems in High Plains region.

• Experience working in crop research.

• Experience with herbicide application, planters/drills, and combines.

• Demonstrated personal and professional commitment to Principals of Community at Colorado State University.

• Certified Colorado Crop Advisor or ability to become certified within 12 months of hire.

Salary Range

Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

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Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.