Research Technician III, Cold Spring Orchard

Conducts research, instruction, outreach, and mechanical work under the direction of facility researchers and Farm Superintendent with minimal or no supervision.

Maintains research trials and demonstration projects at the University of Massachusetts Cold Spring Orchard (CSO) Research and Education Center, including the organization of treatments, labor, laboratory, storage, and personnel needs.

Collaborates with faculty and professional staff to define and establish research trials, develop the approaches used in those trials, conduct research itself and collect and manage appropriate data.

Assists the Farm Superintendent in the overall management and maintenance of the Orchard. Participates in the establishment, maintenance, and harvest of tree – fruit and related orchard plantings. Assures the integrity of the research trials and demonstration projects within the overall operation. Works with the Farm Superintendent and facility researchers to develop appropriate schedules and deadlines to meet the needs of faculty and the facility.

Communicates with the Farm Superintendent regarding agricultural chemical applications to ensure they do not interfere with research trials and data collection.

Collaborates with Farm Superintendent to ensure the needs of undergraduate and graduate education are met by the UMass CSO Research and Education Center.

Applies pesticides ( insecticides, fungicides, herbicides) and other materials as directed in collaboration with the Farm Superintendent. Maintains required records and ensures proper reporting of applications.

Directly supervises departmental assistant(s) and student staff as required in the establishment, maintenance, and harvest / data collection of research blocks and in facility management.

Operates, troubleshoots, maintains and repairs tractors, mowers, and other mechanical farm equipment as needed in support of research, education, and facility management.

Operates and calibrates complicated farm equipment including but not limited to modern tractors, tractor mounted air blast sprayers, and containment spraying systems.

Calibrates laboratory equipment, including but not limited to personal computers, gas chromatographs, electronic penetrometers, electronic refractometers, and scales. Utilizes laboratory equipment to analyze samples in support of facility research.

Conducts appropriate applied research trials which address specific questions regarding orchard management under the direction of facility faculty.

Participates in laboratories for regular University classes conducted at the CSO. Supports and sets up laboratory sessions. Provides additional support as requested including the organization of laboratory materials, equipment, fruit and trees.

Participates in the outreach and educational programs of the Extension Fruit Program at the CSO and other orchards in Massachusetts through the contribution of detailed knowledge of current research during tours and as embellishments to educational presentations.

Develops new proficiencies in the horticultural management of fruit trees and contributes that knowledge to the pruning, training, and manipulation of trees at the CSO Research and Education Center.

Works collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, diversity, equality and inclusiveness. In the performance of work, take initiative, be creative, and operate with self-direction. Work in partnership with colleagues within the College of Natural Sciences (CNS) community and across the campus to support the Dean's strategic priorities.

Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.

Associate's Degree of Science in a horticultural field, or equivalent recent work experience.

Three years' experience in the management of fruit plants.

Experience with agricultural research, data collection, and data management.

Experience in the supervision of subordinate staff in an agricultural setting.

Considerable knowledge of the management of fruit crops and an understanding of basic botany and soil science.

Considerable knowledge of the use and maintenance of farm machinery.

Considerable knowledge of the use and maintenance of laboratory equipment.

Ability to train individuals working in support of research projects.

Experience with and ability to conduct a wide variety of laboratory procedures.

Valid driver's license.

Current MA Pesticide Applicator's License for Tree Fruit, or ability to obtain within three months of hire.

Ability to work independently to organize multiple tasks and set priorities for action, take initiative, be creative, and operate with self-direction in a fast-paced environment.

Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interact effectively and work productively in establishing and maintaining harmonious working relationships with a diverse population of faculty, staff, and students.

Ability to organize and prioritize goals, ability to collaborate well to formulate plans and objectives in accordance with overall college goals and ability to identify and implement process improvements.

Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and to set and meet deadlines while maintaining high standards of accuracy and quality.

Proficiency in computer data management, back-ups, basic analysis.

Bachelor's of Science in a horticultural field, or recent equivalent work experience.

Five years' experience in the management of fruit plants.

Three years' experience working with agricultural research, data collection, and data management.

OSHA-10 Safety Training or ability to acquire within six months of hire.

MA Hoisting License or equivalent licensure, or ability to acquire within six months of hire.

Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds repetitively. Must be able to work for extended periods in adverse environmental conditions including extreme heat and/or cold, rain and snow.

Must be able and willing to work with hazardous materials.