Agricultural Technician at University of Maryland Eastern Shore in University of Eastern Shore, MD

Job description

Job Description Summary Organization's Summary Statement The Agricultural Experiment Station under the Department of Agriculture at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore invites applications for full-time, nonexempt, positions with benefits. Salary Range: $44,000 - $58,000 Benefits: The University of Maryland Eastern Shore, as a University System of Maryland institution and a Maryland State agency, provides a comprehensive benefits package to all regular faculty and staff. The Office of Employee Benefits provides consultative services and assistance with benefits planning, enrollment, and changes. Eligible employees may participate in a variety of benefit plans including: • Health insurance, including multiple medical plan options for employees and dependents offered through the State of Maryland Employee Benefits Division. • Prescription drug, dental, and flexible spending accounts, and vision coverage. • Retirement plans: mandatory enrollment in a state pension system or an Optional Retirement Plan with Fidelity or TIAA, Supplemental Retirement Accounts (TIAA, Fidelity, or MSRP-Nationwide) with $600 annual state match, Life Insurance (state sponsored MetLife, USM sponsored MetLife Plan, life insurance and long-term disability insurance). • Tuition remission benefits for eligible employees and, subject to USM policies, spouses and dependents at University System of Maryland institutions. • Non-exempt positions start at 11 days annual per year, sick leave 15 days per year, personal leave 3 days per year). Overtime, shift-differential and on- call pay and paid holidays. • Employee wellness and support resources and access to the State of Maryland wellness programs. Responsibilities: Under the direction of the Farm Manager, the successful applicant performs moderately complex biological or agricultural tests, examinations and processes to include: • Providing assistance to the daily operation of the UMES farms. • Assisting researchers with field research being conducted in plant and soil science at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore ‘s Agricultural Experiment Station. • Assisting with all farm operations including field preparation, planting, cultivating, spraying, harvesting, and supporting multiple research projects. • Repairing equipment as needed so that farm operations and research continues successfully. • Performs other duties as assigned. Preferences: (Qualifications): • A.S. or A.A. degree State of Maryland Pesticide Public Agency Applicator Certificate, Nutrient Management Applicator Voucher, or ability to obtain both within six (6) months. • Ability to collect and process samples. • Ability use and troubleshoot farm equipment. • Must be willing to acquire skills through training. • Must have a strong commitment to research and be a self-starter. • Ability to lift and transport agricultural supplies, tools, and equipment. • Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. • Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse workplace. • Must have the capacity to balance multiple projects at a time. Physical Demands: • May be required to perform physical work requiring bending, stooping, reaching, carrying, and frequent heavy lifting up to 50 lbs. • May be required to work in adverse weather conditions. • May be required to wear and work in personal protective equipment. • May be required to operate a variety of equipment to include office equipment. Licenses/ Certifications: • Must have a Commercial CDL Class B Driver’s License. Minimum Qualifications High School Diploma or GED AND Three years in agricultural work, one year of which was in agricultural research. Additional Job Details Required Application Materials: Qualified applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of names of three current professional references (current or past supervisor) including e-mail address, and telephone number (current supervisor will not be contacted without the candidate’s prior consent). All applicants m