Research Farm Technician at University of Lexington, Kentucky

Research Farm Technician I

The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment's Department of Horticulture seeks a Research Farm Technician I in Princeton, KY. The position will be responsible for both instructed and self-directed horticultural work maintaining fruit and vegetable research crops. The work requires outside activity throughout the year in all weather and includes physical labor such as bending and lifting, climbing ladders, walking, and standing for extended periods of time. This position requires the ability to drive or operate a truck, utility vehicles, mowing, and other power equipment. Additional requirements include operating and maintaining sprayers, along with mixing and applying chemical pesticides. Technology competency includes basic computer skills, operating data sampling, and field labeling equipment. The individual is expected to:

• work well with a team of horticulturists
• follow research protocols as directed
• fulfill crop production needs, e.g., planting, watering, fertilizing, weeding, pruning, training, canopy management, pest control, harvest, etc.
• assist in the collection of field data and sample processing
• maintain tools and equipment in working order
• clean and organize orchard buildings and field office/laboratory
• run software to create plant labels and perform data entry as directed
• perform duties to maintain professional standards

This position is located at the UK Research and Education Center in Princeton, KY.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities - The ability to drive a truck, tractor, operate tractors and mowing equipment, maintain and use sprayers as well as hand and power tools. Computer skills such as research data entry, operating sampling and labeling equipment.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? - No

Preferred Education/Experience - BS in Horticulture Pesticide Applicators License Driver's license

Deadline to Apply - 06/09/2026

Our University Community - We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus. The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status. Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

Posting Specific Questions

1. * Do you have a valid drivers license?

• Yes
• No

• * Do you have or will you be able to obtain a Pesticide Applicators License? (Open Ended Question)
• * This position requires the employee to lift and carry objects up to 50 pounds and stand and walk for extended periods of time. Can you perform these requirements with or without reasonable accommodations?

• Yes
• No

• * Describe your experience working with farm machinery/equipment. (Open Ended Question)
• * Are you aware this position is located in Princeton KY (210 miles west of Lexington)?

• Yes
• No