Soil Research Technician

The Soil Research Technician position will work mainly on R.A.N.C.H. (Regenerative Agriculture, Nutrition, Climate, and Health) research projects associated with various soil health parameters, located at the Rodale Institute – Ancient Nutrition sites (3480 Summertown Hwy, Summertown, TN 38483 and 5940 County Road 333, Koshkonong, MO 65692). Research projects at Rodale Institute include applied and practical projects in regenerative organic agriculture, soil health, water quality, climate change mitigation, and the linkages between healthy soil and healthy people.
 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform lab and field tasks within the context of research grants, including the following
  • Sample and process soil and plant biomass samples per protocols
  • Conduct lab experiments and procedures per written protocols
  • Maintain field and laboratory experiments and collect data
  • Process all samples (soil and biomass samples) in a timely manner
  • Organize samples and send out for analysis
  • Conduct soil analyses including aggregate stability, bulk density, soil compaction, water infiltration, extraction, etc.
  • Enter, file all collected data
  • Clean, and store all equipment daily. Notify team lead or supervisor when equipment needs repair or replacement
• Assist the supervisor with data preparation for papers and outreach materials
• Assist collaborators with sample collection and processing.
• Maintain sufficient inventory of materials, lab supplies, and equipment for performance of duties
• Assist the supervisor in training of new personnel
• Prepare orders for needed supplies
• Conduct other duties as assigned by the supervisor
• Must be able to travel between sites (TN, MO, and other states as needed) and stay for extended period of time
• Must have a valid driver's license
• Must be able to work in the field under harsh environment exposed to rain, snow, heat, cold, and dust.
   

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree in soil science, environmental science, agronomy, or a related field
• Master’s degree preferred
   

QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS:

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in research field/ greenhouse/laboratory work in soils and plant materials
• Ability to follow established protocols and write new protocols
• Detail-oriented
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience with and understanding of statistics preferred
• Ability to troubleshoot problems
• Experience in managing multiple projects in a fast-paced system
• Experience to work independently and in teams to achieve established outcomes
• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Powerpoint) proficiency
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs
• Must be willing and able to work in all environmental conditions.
   

TRAVEL:

• Travel for this position involves local and regional travel to farms that are part of on-farm trials, such as travelling to the ranch in Missouri, and occasional regional or national workshops and conferences.
   

OTHER RODALE INSTITUTE EXPECTATIONS:

• To be trustful and respectful to all staff and visitors.
   

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• Location: 3480 Summertown Hwy, Summertown, TN 38483

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, sexual identity or handicap.

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