OBJECTIVE: To support and assist the ISA Research Center for Farming Innovation with water quality and crop production research. The employee will be expected to provide support in processing data for both water quality and on-farm strip trials. Work will include running water samples in a laboratory environment, collecting soil and water samples, and processing agronomic data. Following written protocols for proper data processing and organization is an essential function of this role. The research will be used to inform and assist farmers to improve the productivity and sustainability of crop production in Iowa. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Perform analyses on water samples from various sources in accordance with established Quality Assurance (QA) protocols
• Perform analyses on crop yield data based on established processing protocols
• Maintain quality control requirements, data management, sample tracking, and reporting in accordance with SOPs and QAPPs
• Operates, calibrates, maintains, and properly documents the use of automated sampling equipment; helps with maintenance and calibration records
• Assist with field-based water, soil, and tissue sampling
• Manage and catalog data related to research trials and water quality analyses
• Performs related duties as needed or assigned

COMPETENCIES

• Practical understanding and application of agronomy and environmental science
• Prioritizing and organizing work
• Demonstrates initiative and attention to detail
• Customer focused
• Use of laboratory equipment and technology
• Communicating effectively

TRAVEL

• This position does require travel throughout the state.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

• This position has no supervisory responsibility.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Associate’s degree or higher in biological sciences, chemistry, environmental sciences, agronomy, or related field.
• Ability to learn procedures for the analysis of samples; demonstrate good laboratory and field monitoring techniques; follow detailed oral and written instruction.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Experience in laboratory analyses, including: ion chromatography, coliform bacteria, turbidity, pH, or titrations.
• Experience with GIS, agricultural research, or precision agriculture

BENEFITS

• Medical, Dental and Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account available
• Cellphone and Wellness reimbursement
• Fitness center and Golf simulator
• 401(k) with generous company match
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Dress for your Day Dress Code 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; drive long distances; walk in fields and uneven terrain; collect water samples from streams, tile outlets, and other water sources; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment will vary.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This job operates in a professional office and outdoor environments. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and software platforms such as Office 365. Field work is required and sampling equipment such as on-farm research and/or replicated strip trial layout and execution, water, soil and tissue sampling equipment, and GPS equipment are also used.  This role routinely involves working around heavy equipment and farming implements.  Proper use of safety equipment and safety procedures is required.

ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS

A valid driver’s license is required.