POSITION SUMMARY

This position is supervised by a Weed Scientist and provides essential support to the weeds research project to include field plot farming operations, care of greenhouse and controlled environment plantings, layout of field and greenhouse experiments, application of pesticide, fertility, tillage, etc., treatments, observation of crop and weed response to treatments and weather, data collection and analysis, and the operation of complex laboratory and field instrumentation including GPS-controlled mapping and ag input application equipment. This requires operating the tractor, planter and harvest combines. There is some travel w/in NYS for regional trials. The scientist supported by this position direct research programs that are among the core disciplines required to carry out the unit mission of
developing new knowledge and technology to stabilize and sustain long-term production of food and fiber in a manner consistent with conservation of natural resources, protection of the environment, and assurance of food safety.
This is a full-time position at 100% FTE. This is a one-year term appointment that is contingent upon available work, funding, and performance.
While position responsibilities vary, every member of our community is expected to foster a culture of belonging and a healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.

PROGRAM STATEMENT/DESCRIPTION:

The Soil and Crop Sciences Section of Cornell’s School of Integrative Plant Science (SIPS) is dedicated to generating and communicating knowledge about agroecosystems and their sustainable management in the face of accelerating global change. We achieve this by educating students for stewardship of agro-ecosystems, conducting scientific research on sustainable land management, and using our extension and outreach programs for the benefit of our stakeholders. Many faculty conduct programs focusing on New York and the northeastern United States region, as well as in many countries around the world having temperate, sub-tropical and tropical environments.

WHAT WE NEED

• Associate’s degree and up to 2 years of relevant experience or equivalent combination.
• Must possess excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Must have and maintain an unrestricted NY State valid driver’s license cleared to drive for University business. Valid driver’s license to permit incumbent to operate automobiles, pickup trucks, and farm trucks (up to 24,000 GVW) having standard or automatic transmissions once employed. Certified, or capable and willing to be certified, to apply restricted-use pesticides to crops.
• Should be motivated and an enthusiastic learner, capable of exercising some degree of independence in research.
• Personable, motivated and enthusiastic about working in a group environment as well as independently.
• Mobility to maneuver on and under equipment. Work requires considerable physical exertion in order to transport in excess of 50 lbs (no more than 100 lbs) unassisted on a regular basis.
• Must be punctual, reliable and able to occasionally work irregular hours and travel to field sites.
• Working knowledge with basic computer programs such as MS Word, Excel, and e-mail.
• Experience in collection of data and comfortable with basic database programs, such as: Microsoft Excel, Word, OneNote
• Visual concentration, attention to detail and manual dexterity are required.
• Must have and maintain a valid NYS pesticide applicators license.
• Willingness to get Cornell DOT certification to drive fleet truck and project trailer to and from field sites.
• Complete the training to become a tractor and forklift operator and maintain the certification.
• Experience operating on farm machinery and equipment such as: tractors, combines, balers, forage harvesters, tillage implements, chemical applicators, and planters

ABOUT US

Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose and contribute creative ideas to further the university’s mission of teaching, discovery and engagement. With our main campus located in Ithaca, NY, Cornell’s far-flung global presence includes the medical college’s campuses on the Upper East Side of Manhattan and Doha, Qatar, as well as the Cornell Tech campus located on Roosevelt Island in the heart of New York City.
We offer a rich array of services, programs and benefits to help employees advance in their career and enhance the quality of personal life, including: employee wellness, workshops, childcare and adoption assistance, parental leave, flexible work options

• BS degree preferred plus three years’ experience in large-scale farming operations.
• Training in the safe and proper use of pesticides would be highly desirable.
• Ability to communicate in English, both orally and in writing, in order to interpret precise instructions, procedures, technical plans and designs, and keep research and production records. Ability to drive large and small farm equipment safely and skillfully.
• Ability to recognize plant diseases and signs of insect infestation.
• Knowledge of the hazards and effects of pesticides (herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, etc.) and the ability to read and interpret label and MSDS instructions regarding safe and proper use of agricultural chemicals.
• Knowledge of hazards and safety precautions pertaining repair, maintenance, and operation of agricultural equipment, vehicles, and power tools.
• Knowledge of the methods, practices, techniques, and tools used in planting and the ability to read and follow plans and designs for planting trees, shrubs, grasses, and crop plants.
• Ability to setup, calibrate, and operate precision agricultural equipment.
• Knowledge of methods and principles of supervision and the ability to plan, assign, review and evaluate work of other employees.
• Experience in a field-based research program or other agricultural field.
• Experience training or supervising students in a research setting. Experience working with diverse groups of people and fostering an environment of inclusion.