Research Specialist Sr.

Job Description The position provides technical support to the Horticulture Production Systems Program at the Eastern Shore Agricultural Research and Extension Center (AREC), located on the Delmarva peninsula in Painter, Virginia. This is an off-campus, primarily field-based role involving the establishment and maintenance of field trials, application of pesticides, data collection, and plant sampling from field plots and commercial fields, with a focus on vegetables (potato, green bean, tomato, peppers, etc.) and opportunities to work with small fruits, tree fruits, and ornamental crops. Other responsibilities include lab work (post-harvest assessments), office duties (data entry, preparing extension materials, inventory, budget and compliance records), and supervisory tasks (overseeing part-time employees and assisting graduate student research). Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in a plant science related field (Horticulture, Crop & Soil Science, Plant Pathology, Entomology, Weed Science, etc.) or a combination of education and extensive experience in a related field. Knowledge of production horticulture and farm practices including planting, maintenance, and harvesting of commercial horticultural crops or similar crops. Detail oriented and self motivated to implement research trials and collect data. Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office Suite, Google Drive, etc.). Ability to train, manage, and mentor hourly employees and student labor. Must have or be able to obtain and maintain a Virginia Driver's License and a Virginia commercial pesticide applicator license within three months of start date. Must be able to lift 50 lbs and be willing to learn to operate farm machinery and trailers safely. Preferred Qualifications Basic laboratory skills and/or basic understanding of statistics. Knowledge of pesticides. Prior experience in extension, agriculture education, or agricultural communications. Elective: eagerness to learn and hone new skills. Additional Requirements Ability to perform strenuous field labor. Criminal background check required. Must use respirator. Must have a valid driver's license. Criminal conviction check required. Compensation and Benefits Pay Band: 3 Salary: $55,000 - $65,000; commensurate with experience. Hours per week: 40. Employment Details Appointment Type: Restricted. Overtime Status: Exempt - not eligible for overtime. Review Date: May 26, 2026. EEO Statement Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Virginia Tech