Technician III with Cornell University in Ithaca, NY

While position responsibilities vary, every member of our community is expected to foster a culture of belonging and a psychologically healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

This position is supervised by a Weed Scientist and provides essential support to the weeds research project to include field plot farming operations, care of greenhouse and controlled environment plantings, layout of field and greenhouse experiments, application of pesticide, fertility, tillage, etc., treatments, observation of crop and weed response to treatments and weather, data collection and analysis, and the operation of complex laboratory and field instrumentation including GPS-controlled mapping and ag input application equipment. This requires operating the tractor, planter and harvest combines.  There is some travel w/in NYS for regional trials.  The scientist supported by this position direct research programs that are among the core disciplines required to carry out the unit mission of developing new knowledge and technology to stabilize and sustain long-term production of food and fiber in a manner consistent with conservation of natural resources, protection of the environment, and assurance of food safety.

Required Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree and up to 2 years relevant experience or equivalent combination.

• Must possess excellent organizational and communication skills.

• Must have and maintain an unrestricted NY State valid driver’s license cleared to drive for University business.  Valid driver’s license to permit incumbent to operate automobiles, pickup trucks, and farm trucks (up to 24,000 GVW) having standard or automatic transmissions once employed. Certified, or capable and willing to be certified, to apply restricted-use pesticides to crops. 

• Should be motivated and an enthusiastic learner, capable of exercising some degree of independence in research.

• Personable, motivated and enthusiastic about working in a group environment as well as independently.

• Mobility to maneuver on and under equipment. Work requires considerable physical exertion in order to transport in excess of 50 lbs (no more than 100 lbs) unassisted on a regular basis.

• Must be punctual, reliable and able to occasionally work irregular hours and travel to field sites.

• Working knowledge with basic computer programs such as MS Word, Excel, and e-mail.

• Experience in collection of data and comfortable with basic database programs, such as: Microsoft Excel, Word, OneNote 

• Visual concentration, attention to detail and manual dexterity are required.

• Must have  and maintain a valid NYS pesticide applicators license. 

• Willingness to get Cornell DOT certification to drive fleet truck and project trailer to and from field sites. 

• Complete the training to become a tractor and forklift operator and maintain the certification.

• Experience operating on farm machinery and equipment such as: tractors, combines, balers, forage harvesters, tillage implements, chemical applicators, and planters

• Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and wellbeing.

• Passionate about working in an organization that values and promotes diversity, equity, inclusion, anti-racism, and wellbeing.

  Preferred Qualifications:

  • BS degree preferred plus three years’ experience in large-scale farming operations. Training in the safe and proper use of pesticides would be highly desirable.

  • Ability to communicate in English, both orally and in writing, in order to interpret precise instructions, procedures, technical plans and designs, and keep research and production records. Ability to drive large and small farm equipment safely and skillfully. Ability to recognize plant diseases and signs of insect infestation. Knowledge of the hazards and effects of pesticides (herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, etc.) and the ability to read and interpret label and MSDS instructions regarding safe and proper use of agricultural chemicals. Knowledge of hazards and safety precautions pertaining repair, maintenance, and operation of agricultural equipment, vehicles, and power tools. Knowledge of the methods, practices, techniques, and tools used in planting and the ability to read and follow plans and designs for planting trees, shrubs, grasses, and crop plants. Ability to setup, calibrate, and operate precision agricultural equipment. Knowledge of methods and principles of supervision and the ability to plan, assign, review and evaluate work of other employees.

  • Experience in a field-based research program or other agricultural field.

  • Experience training or supervising students in a research setting.

  • Experience working with diverse groups of people and fostering an environment of inclusion.

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds. We encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.