Research Technician II

About the Position Research Technician II under general supervision, provides technical support for breeding and research work to professional staff. Responsibilities Conduct seed and land preparation and planting of research trials and breeding nurseries in the field and greenhouse, manage crop growth throughout the season (irrigation, fertilization, pesticide application), and harvest for yield or plant samples. Collect samples and measure data from research trials and breeding nurseries. Collect and summarize crop management information of research trials and breeding nurseries. Conduct and record yield and quality measurements using grain analyzers. Compile data using Excel and Word. Assist in making crosses for development of new breeding populations. Operate and maintain field equipment (tractors, planters, combine harvester, threshers, backhoe) and lab technical equipment (rice dehullers, mills, whiteness and moisture meters). Plant, harvest and take data in off‑station yield trials. Train and assign tasks to student workers and co‑workers under supervision. Travel to Puerto Rico for harvesting plant materials. Assist staff members in conducting major field experiments and consult in developing procedures. Perform other duties as assigned. Required Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent, or combination of education and experience. Three years of related experience. Knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform responsibilities including growing, managing, harvesting rice and samples in field and greenhouse nurseries, data measurement and compilation, operating and maintaining field and lab equipment. Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor of Science degree or equivalent experience. Salary and Benefits Compensation is commensurate based on the selected candidate’s qualifications. This is an hourly paid position. Benefits include: Health, dental, vision, life and long‑term disability insurance, 12‑15 days of annual paid holidays, up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month, automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, Employee Wellness Initiative. Equal Opportunity Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr