The Department of Agronomy in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University seeks an Agricultural Specialist II Field Operations to support research demonstration and teaching activities. This position is responsible for maintaining research and demonstration plots operating and maintaining agricultural equipment and supporting facilities and events at the Field Extension Education Laboratory (FEEL) Farm and associated research sites. The position works collaboratively with faculty staff students and researchers to coordinate field activities and ensure work is completed in accordance with established protocols safety procedures and project timelines.
The successful candidate will contribute to efficient and accurate field operations while supporting a safe organized and well-maintained research environment.
Key responsibilities include:
Maintain research and demonstration plots according to established protocols including planting mowing cultivation fertilization and harvest preparation
Operate tractors mowers sprayers planters utility vehicles and other farm or plot-scale equipment
Assist with plot layout measurement labeling documentation and trial setup
Support weed pest and residue management
Perform routine inspections preventative maintenance and repairs on agricultural equipment including mechanical electrical hydraulic and fuel systems
Maintain accurate maintenance records and ensure equipment meets safety and operating standards
Assist with snow removal mowing trimming and general grounds maintenance
Support FEEL Farm events and field days including setup teardown and cleanup of event spaces and equipment
Why Join Us
In this role you will be a key part of the Field Extension Education Laboratory (FEEL) a 25-acre research and demonstration farm with more than 300 plots each year. You will be actively engaged with a variety of crops trials and field activities with the freedom to manage plots explore how the space is used and shape the experience for researchers students and visitors. The position offers independence to run day-to-day operations and make the farm your own supported by resources and collaboration when needed. If you enjoy variety ownership and seeing your work come to life this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a dynamic research farm.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
This is a term position with opportunity for renewal.
Level Guidelines
Intermediate-level position with solid professional and/or technical skills working under general supervision to achieve goals
Applies broad working knowledge of the principles of the field to moderately complex difficult and varied problems and issues
Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action and resolve problems
Responds to a broad range of inquiries and requests
May provide training and/or direction to lower-level staff
May lead projects of moderate scope and complexity
Provides guidance to students
To apply for this position please click on Apply and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process please email or call or Toll Free: 1-.
Why Choose ISU
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits including medical and dental; as well as:
Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
Generous vacation holiday and sick time and leave plans
Onsite childcare (Ames Iowa)
Life insurance and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts
Various voluntary benefits and discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellbeing program
Required Experience:
IC
Attending Iowa State University of Science and Technology (ISU) can be a whirlwind experience for some. ISU is a public land-grant institution offering higher education courses and programs with an emphasis on science, technology, and related areas. It's also home to the Cyclones athl ... View more