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Inside Higher Ed · 4 weeks ago

Turfgrass Research Technician (Laboratory Technician 1)

Storrs Mansfield, CT

Full-time

Onsite

Entry, Mid Level

1+ years exp

The University of Connecticut is seeking a Turfgrass Research Technician to provide technical assistance in establishing and maintaining turfgrass for research, teaching, and outreach. The role involves managing turfgrass research plots, applying pesticides, and assisting with field laboratory procedures.

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Responsibilities

Establish, maintain, and renovate turfgrass areas for research, teaching, and outreach activities

Prioritize cultural management of turfgrass research plots in consultation with researchers and farm manager. This includes mowing, irrigating, fertilizing, cultivating, and pest scouting

Prepare and apply pesticides as needed to manage weeds, insects, and diseases of turfgrasses in research fields and greenhouses

Identify turfgrass species and diagnose common weed, insect, and disease problems

Operate equipment, instrumentation, and related components including computer software and systems

Assist in maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing gas powered equipment

Calibrate field equipment to ensure accurate application of fertilizers and pesticides

Responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of high-volume, in-ground irrigation system, and satellite controllers

Collect, compile, and distribute climate, soil conditions, and other data to researchers to inform experimental activity and turfgrass health management decisions

Assist with field laboratory procedures as needed, including establishing research trials, applying treatments, soil sampling, plant tissue harvest, and collecting quantitative and qualitative data to support faculty research

Maintain appropriate digital records and files related to the maintenance of research plot and pesticide applications

Conduct basic maintenance and repair skills for small-engines, specialized turfgrass, and landscape equipment including the precision adjustment and grinding of reel-mowers for fine-cut turfgrass

Assist faculty and researchers with teaching and outreach initiatives by preparing plant specimens, developing and presenting turfgrass instructional content for undergraduate and professional audiences, and providing logistical support for planning and delivering outreach events such as the UConn Turfgrass Field Day, the New England Regional Turfgrass Conference, and other programs

Provide supervision of hourly labor, students, and other support positions associated with the Turfgrass Science Program

Other related duties

Qualification

Turfgrass scienceIntegrated Pest ManagementPesticide applicationIrrigation system operationEquipment maintenanceEffective communicationProblem-solvingSelf-motivationTime management

Required

Bachelor's degree in turfgrass science, plant science, or a related field with at least one year of relevant experience; OR Associate's degree with three or more years of experience; OR five or more years of experience in a related field

Knowledge and experience in growing and maintaining high-quality turfgrass areas such as sports fields, golf courses, or residential and commercial properties, or field research plots

Experience in Integrated Pest Management for control of turfgrass pests

Experience identifying turfgrass species and diagnose common weed, insect, and disease problems

Demonstrated experience with calibration, application, maintenance, and repair of sprayers and broadcast spreaders, and with computers and electronic record keeping

Current Connecticut Governmental Commercial Junior Operator Certification pesticide license or ability to acquire Certification within one month of hire

Effective communication and conflict resolution skills

Self-motivation and ability to work independently with minimal supervision

Ability to prioritize duties and manage time effectively

Flexibility and willingness to work irregular schedules, including evenings and weekends

Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions

Problem-solving ability and adaptability in dynamic work environments

Demonstrated interest in promoting the UConn Turfgrass Science Program and commitment to ongoing professional development through continuing education