Research Technician - Lead

Req Id: 42915

Job Title: Research Technician - Lead

City: Farmland

Job Description:

What Youll be Doing:

Work directly with PAC staff, faculty, and graduate students to implement field research trials at the Davis Purdue Agricultural Center (DPAC). Review and evaluate research protocols for each trial, making recommendations to ensure the efficient use of DPAC resources.

Independently lead the scheduling and operation of the field equipment fleet used for field preparation, plot layout, planting, pesticide application, harvesting, and the collection of research data. Utilize precision agriculture technologies to program and operate research equipment for variable-rate planting, pesticide application, and yield data collection based on research requirements provided by faculty and graduate students. Monitor crop conditions through field scouting and adjust field operations as needed to support research objectives.

What Were Looking For:

Education and Experience

Qualified Candidates Will Need:

• Bachelors degree
• 2+ years of experience with equipment operation, setup, repair, modification, and maintenance
• Use of Precision Ag technologies
• Agricultural and heavy equipment operation
• Welding experience preferred

Skills Needed:

• Obtain certification and/or licensing in regulated areas as needed (example: possess or have the ability to acquire Category 1, 11, and 14 pesticide applicator licenses within one year of hire)
• Acquire a Part 107 drone license
• Acquire a Part 137 aerial applicator license
• Acquire a Class A CDL within 12 months of employment
• Become approved to drive Purdue University vehicles

What We'd Like You To Know:

• To learn more about Purdue's benefits summary CLICK HERE
• Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible For Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan

Career Stream

• Administrative and Operational Support 4
• Pay Band: S055
• Job Code: 20003402

Career Path Maker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Purdue University is an EA/EO employer.

Apply now

Posting Start Date: 7/10/26