Field Research Specialist (Margenot Lab)
Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment

This position requires in-person work on campus.

The University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign is a public land-grant research university in Illinois in the twin cities of Champaign and Urbana. It is the flagship institution of the University of Illinois system and was founded in 1867. The university serves the people of Illinois through a shared commitment to excellence in teaching, research, public engagement, economic development and health care. Faculty, staff and students share their knowledge, expertise and resources with residents in every corner of the state through public service and outreach programs.

Job Summary

This position will support the on-farm research and thus the nutrient and water quality program of the Soils Lab work on agroecosystem sustainability via iSEE on multiple interdisciplinary projects focused on nutrient, water and soil management and conservation. The individual is expected to work closely with other field-based personnel in the Margenot group in iSEE and related organization units on funded projects, and with Illinois agricultural stakeholders.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Collection and/or analysis of soil and water samples from on-farm research sites
• Develop field operation plans with head field technician, and organize logistics
• Develop and curate datasets for farmer-facing and policymaker-targeted reports
• Coordinate with field and lab managers and PI on sampling and analyses

Additional Physical Demands

Ability to work outdoors in varying and sometimes adverse weather conditions
Willingness to work extended hours during peak field seasons, as operational needs require
Ability to safely lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds
Valid driver’s license with the ability to drive long distances, including trips of up to three hours each way

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field (such as Crop Sciences, Agriculture, or Plant Biology) required by date of hire
• Demonstrated experience with data collection and analysis is required and may include academic experience

Preferred Qualifications

• At least two years of experience working in a related field including hands-on experience performing fieldwork with a focus on cropping systems management
• Experience with soil sampling
• Experience working with lysimeters
• Experience with biomass fraction processing of crops

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Evidence of consistent use of good judgment, discretion, and tactful communication
• Ability to work with individuals or communities from varied cultural backgrounds and contribute to efforts that foster empathy and improve access and representation within organizations
• Knowledge and experience with office software and ability to learn custom systems
• Ability to handle multiple priorities without direct supervision
• Ability to communicate effectively with others, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to work outdoors in varying and sometimes adverse weather conditions
• Ability to safely lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the close date. The previously determined salary range for this position was $44,000 to $50,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on Friday, February 20, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting and upload a cover letter, resume, and names/contact information (including phone number and email address) for three professional references. Incomplete applications and applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Leslie Lewin Reinhart at 217-333-0034. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Champaign-Urbana

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

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The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.

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Requisition ID: 1034252
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu