Ag Specialist - Stripling Irrigation Research Park

Company: University of Georgia
Location: Athens
Posted on: October 20, 2024

Job Description:

Posting Details



Posting Details




Posting Number
S08527P


Working Title
Ag Specialist - Stripling Irrigation Research Park


Department
CAES-Stripling Irrigation Rsch


About the University of Georgia
Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia's oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,000 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 40,000 students including over 30,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 18 schools and colleges, as well as a medical partnership with Augusta University housed on the UGA Health Sciences Campus in Athens.


About the College/Unit/Department



College/Unit/Department website
https://striplingpark.caes.uga.edu/


Posting Type
External


Retirement Plan
TRS


Employment Type
Employee


Benefits Eligibility
Benefits Eligible


Full/Part time
Full Time


Work Schedule



Additional Schedule Information
To be determined by Superintendent.


Advertised Salary
Commensurate with Experience


Posting Date
05/19/2022


Open until filled
Yes


Closing Date



Proposed Starting Date
07/01/2022


Special Instructions to Applicants



Location of Vacancy
Other South Georgia Area


EEO Policy Statement
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).


USG Core Values Statement
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at .

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at .





Position Information




Classification Title
Agriculture/Forestry Technical/Paraprofessional/Professional


FLSA
Non-Exempt


FTE
1.00


Minimum Qualifications
Requires technical knowledge in the field acquired through an apprenticeship, a 2-year degree, or professional certificate. Please contact your Human Resources office for an evaluation of education/experience in lieu of the required minimum qualifications.


Preferred Qualifications



Position Summary
The Ag Specialist will be a part of the Stripling Park team and the position's duties will include assisting the Superintendent and senior staff with planning, organizing and conducting scientific research studies in conjunction with scientists. Duties will include, but are not limited to: assisting with plot land preparation, assisting with crop production (tillage, planting, scouting, cultivation, spraying, harvesting), operating, maintaining and repairing farm equipment (tractors, sprayers, harvesters, etc.), operating irrigation and water conservation research equipment and facilities, coordinating irrigation scheduling and application as well as researcher irrigation protocols (plots, treatments, replications), communicating with research scientists regarding a variety of research programs, experimental projects and tests, sensor installation and configuration, performing irrigation system maintenance and repairs, assisting Superintendent with water conservation projects, maintaining irrigation records and producing year-end water application records, and participating in all other aspects of the research and outreach activities at the Research Park, like field days, 4-H camps, student tours, VIP tours, extension trainings, etc. The role also assists in the selection, training, and supervision of farm and seasonal temp workers and performs related work as required.


Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies
Considerable experience in row crop production, including operation of tractors, sprayers, harvesters, and irrigation systems (drip and/or overhead). Experience carrying out tillage, planting, scouting, cultivating, spraying, harvesting, and irrigation operations. Desire someone who possesses mechanical skills, including welding, for working on tractors and other equipment and experience in hauling equipment. Ability to follow both oral and written instructions. Basic personal computer skills (such as email). The work schedule may occasionally include weekends, holidays, and early mornings / late evenings. Individual should have, at a minimum, the GA private pesticide license or obtain such license during the 1st year of employment. Valid driver's license.


Physical Demands
Will work independently in a variety of weather conditions. Will work from lifts at various heights, bend, lift, and carry heavy objects.


Is driving a responsibility of this position?
Yes


Is this a Position of Trust?
Yes


Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?
No


Does this position require a P-Card?
No


Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position?
No


Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?
No


Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications)
Yes


Credit and P-Card policy
Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the .


Background Investigation Policy
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the .





Duties/Responsibilities




Duties/Responsibilities
Install and operate irrigation systems such as laterals, pivots, drip, solid sets and hard hoses according to research protocols. Perform irrigation system maintenance and repairs.


Percentage of time
40




Duties/Responsibilities
Assist in all phases of research crop preparation and production, including mowing, tillage, planting, scouting, cultivating, spraying, harvesting, etc.


Percentage of time
30




Duties/Responsibilities
Install and operate associated irrigation-related sensors and smartphone apps, ensure sensor and app data is collected properly.


Percentage of time
10




Duties/Responsibilities
Assist with repair and maintenance of farm equipment (tractors, sprayers,
implements, etc.).





Percentage of time
15




Duties/Responsibilities
Assist with research and outreach activities like field days, 4-H camps, student tours, VIP tours, extension trainings, etc.





Percentage of time
5

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