Soil and Agronomy Research Technician (Part Time) (Temporary) (Maricopa, AZ)

The Department of Environmental Sciences- Extension at the University of Arizona seeks to fill the role of Soil and Agronomy Research Technician. The primary responsibility of this position is to participate in field and laboratory research by measuring various soil crop and environmental variables under general supervision and with instructions provided.

Research duties include collecting soil water and plant samples from the field; monitoring crop growth in the field; assisting in fieldwork such as irrigation and weed management; collecting field-based data on soil moisture crop growth or similar parameters; processing samples for analysis; conduct statistical analyses; organizing research data; and maintaining research supply inventories.

This position will last until 12/18/2026 with a possible extension contingent upon work performance and funding.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health dental and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation sick leave and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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Sample Collection and Fieldwork (Protocols Will Be Made Available by the Supervisory Team):

• Collect soil water and plant samples from research plots and process them for analysis. The samples will be collected using tools such as soil probes bottles resealable plastic bags and clippers. The samples will be dried and ground for analysis.
• Assist with irrigation plot preparation and application of agricultural products in the research plots. Compost biochar other agricultural products hydrogel-based soil amendments and fertilizers will be applied by hand. Special training will be provided to obtain the licenses and certifications required to apply chemicals like herbicides and pesticides.
• Monitor crop growth measure plant variables and participate in the planting and harvesting of crops.
• Submit all recorded information in a shared folder on Box or OneDrive and provide regular updates to supervisors.
• Organize collected data in a spreadsheet and share it with other project team members.

Soil Plant and Water Sample Processing Organization and Laboratory Testing:

• Grind and sieve all collected soil and plant samples.
• Conduct or assist with soil testing.
• Clean and organize laboratory supplies and consumables.

Extension and Outreach Programs:

• Assist in organizing extension and outreach events such as workshops trainings field demonstrations and field days.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

• Understanding of data organization and management.
• Ability to work outdoors in open fields for extended periods.
• Ability to drive vehicles to rural and urban field research sites.
• Ability to learn new skills.
• Motivation to work with agricultural stakeholders.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

• Demonstrated experience working with organized research projects.