Research Assistant I

Research Assistant I

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Job no: 1148889

Work type: Support Staff

Pay Grade: 11

Major Administrative Unit / College: College Of Agriculture And Nat Resources

Department: Plant Soil And Microbial Sciences 40000781

Sub Area: AP- Professionals

Salary: Salary Commensurate with Experience

Location: East Lansing

Categories: Agriculture, Education/Training, Research/Scientific, Administrative Professionals- AP, Full Time (90-100%), Union

Position Summary

The Cropping Systems Agronomy program ( in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University i s hiring a Research Assistant I. The overarching program goal is to develop agronomic recommendations for corn, soybean, and winter wheat-based cropping systems. This position will support research and extension activities of the program. Primary duties of the position include management of field trials, data collection, program resources, and communication with stakeholders. Specific responsibilities and expected time commitment include:

30%- Project management. This includes:

• Oversee day to day management of various research projects.
• Assist with collection of data and research samples using project-specific protocols.
• Oversee data entry, organize data files, and prepare data for analysis.
• Assist with da ta analysis and report writing.

20%- Field research activities . This includes:

• Assist staff with field preparation, in-season crop management, and harvesting of research trials.
• Travel to various Michigan field site locations as needed.

20%- Communication with stakeholders . This includes:

• Regular updates to program website and social media accounts.
• Communication with cooperators on research and extension activities.

20%- Training and supervision of employees . This includes:

• Aid in hi ring, training, and supervision of student employees.
• Coordinate employee safety trainings and maintain records.

10%- Management of program resources. This includes:

• Safe operation and maintenance of laboratory and field equipment.
• Purchase and keep an accurate inventory of supplies and equipment.

Appointment Basis:

12 month s from date of hire; renewable annually subject to performance and continuation of funding

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Agronomy, Crop and Soil Sciences, or other related science fields; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in managing field crops, operating and maintaining field research and farm equipment, standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements, and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed; Proficiency with Microsoft Office computer programs, organization and maintenance of research data or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicators license is required within six months of hire.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience working in a team environment and managing shared resources.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience in conducting field trials and communication of results to stakeholders.
• Proficiency in operating and repairing field research equipment with auto-guidance and variable rate technologies.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Cover Letter

Resume/CV

Names and contact information for Three (3) professional References


Special Instructions

Address any specific questions about the position and cover letter to Dr. Manni Singh (View email address on click.appcast.io) To attract as many interested applicants as possible, there will be multiple opportunities to apply to this position on, careers.msu.edu/cw/en-us/listing/ . To keep updated on the windows of opportunity to apply, please inquire with the PSM HR Team (View email address on click.appcast.io) Review of applications will begin August 24, 2026 and continue until a suitable candidate is found.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from the date of hire with renewal possible contingent upon funding.

Website

Summary of Physical Demands

Lifting up to 50lbs of the following from floor/waist height (15Min on average )

seed bags, fertilizer, and equipment parts

Carrying up to 50lb of the following a distance of 50 feet (15 Min on average)

Carrying seed and fertilizer bags

Pushing/Pulling (15 Min on average

Carrying seed and fertilizer bags

Climbing (10 Minutes)

Climbing ladder/stair with bags of seed or fertilizer

Summary of Health Risks

Spray or mix organophosphate or carbamate insecticides

Work in noisy (at or above 85 decibels) areas.

Drive a university vehicle that does not require a commercial driver's license but does require medical

certification:

• VEHICLES:
• Have a gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more but less than 26,001 pounds.
• COMBINATION VEHICLES:
• Having a combined gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds.

Bidding eligibility ends August 18, 2026 at 11:55 P.M.

Advertised: Aug 12, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

Applications close: Sep 10, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time