Research Technician

OBJECTIVE: To support and assist the ISA Research Center for Farming Innovation with water quality and crop production research. Work will include running water samples in a laboratory environment, collecting soil and water samples, managing sample submission to external labs, and processing agronomic data. Following written protocols for proper data processing and organization is an essential function of this role. The employee will be expected to provide support in processing data for both water quality and on-farm strip trials. The research will be used to inform and assist farmers to improve the productivity and sustainability of crop production in Iowa.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Perform analyses on water samples from various sources in accordance with established Quality Assurance (QA) protocols
• Operates, calibrates, maintains, and properly documents the use of automated sampling equipment; helps with maintenance and calibration records
• Assist with field-based water sampling
• Maintain quality control requirements, data management, sample tracking, and reporting in accordance with SOPs and QAPPs
• Perform analyses on crop yield data based on established processing protocols
• Manage and catalog data related to research trials and water quality analyses
• Performs related duties as needed or assigned

COMPETENCIES

• Use of laboratory equipment and technology
• Demonstrates initiative and attention to detail
• Prioritizing and organizing work
• Self-starter and ability to work unsupervised
• Practical understanding and application of agronomy and environmental science
• Customer focused
• Communicating effectively

TRAVEL

• This position does require travel throughout the state.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

• This position has no supervisory responsibility.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Associate’s degree or higher in biological sciences, chemistry, environmental sciences, agronomy, or related field.
• Ability to learn procedures for the analysis of samples; demonstrate good laboratory