Biological Sciences Research Technician 1: Corn Inspector
Oregon State University
Hermiston, OR
Job posting number: #7241967
Posted: May 3, 2024
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Job Description
Job SummaryThis recruitment will be used to fill five full-time, seasonal (July through August) Biological Sciences Research Tech 1 positions (3 in Hermiston, 2 in Milton Freewater) for the Crop & Soil Sciences Extension Station at Oregon State University (OSU).
This work is located in Umatilla County, Oregon, including the Hermiston and Milton-Freewater areas. This position will work full-time July through August.
This is a seasonal Biological Sciences Research Technician 1 position to assist with inspections for the corn program in Seed Certification at OSU. Inspections must be done within a narrow window of opportunity due to the growth cycle of corn in hot weather and effective time management is critical for conducting successful inspections. Work will be performed independently within the geographic area assigned to this position. The workload can vary and may be physically demanding. The majority of work is performed outside with exposure to sun and pollen for extended periods throughout a typical work schedule of up to eight hours a day, and between five to seven days a week. Teamwork is critical for a successful outcome. Safety is a priority in all aspects of this job, especially with regard to the required volume of driving from field to field and exposure to hot weather. Communication with the supervisor and team members requires use of a cell phone.
Why OSU?
Working for Oregon State University is so much more than a job!
Oregon State University is a dynamic community of dreamers, doers, problem-solvers and change-makers. We don’t wait for challenges to present themselves — we seek them out and take them on. We welcome students, faculty and staff from every background and perspective into a community where everyone feels seen and heard. We have deep-rooted mindfulness for the natural world and all who depend on it, and together, we apply knowledge, tools and skills to build a better future for all.
FACTS:
• Top 1.4% university in the world
• More research funding than all public universities in Oregon combined
• 1 of 3 land, sea, space and sun grant universities in the U.S.
• 2 campuses, 11 colleges, 12 experiment stations, and Extension programs in all 36 counties
• 7 cultural resource centers that offer education, celebration and belonging for everyone
• 100+ undergraduate degree programs, 80+ graduate degrees plus hundreds of minor options and certificates
• 35k+ students including more than 2.3k international students and 10k students of color
• 217k+ alumni worldwide
• For more interesting facts about OSU visit: https://oregonstate.edu/about
Locations:
Oregon State has a statewide presence with campuses in Corvallis and Bend, the OSU Portland Center and the Hatfield Marine Science Center on the Pacific Coast in Newport.
Oregon State’s beautiful, historic and state-of-the-art main campus is located in one of America’s best college towns. Corvallis is located close to the Pacific Ocean, the Cascade mountains and Oregon wine country. Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley, this beautiful city offers miles of mountain biking and hiking trails, a river perfect for boating or kayaking and an eclectic downtown featuring local cuisine, popular events and performances.
Total Rewards Package:
Oregon State University offers a comprehensive benefits package with benefits eligible positions that is designed to meet the needs of employees and their families including:
• Medical, Dental, Vision and Basic Life. OSU pays 95% of premiums for you and your eligible dependents.
• Free confidential mental health and emotional support services, and counseling resources.
• Retirement savings paid by the university.
• A generous paid leave package, including holidays, vacation and sick leave.
• Tuition reduction benefits for you or your qualifying dependents at OSU or the additional six Oregon Public Universities.
• Robust Work Life programs including Dual Career assistance resources, flexible work arrangements, a Family Resource Center, Affinity Groups and an Employee Assistance Program.
Future and current OSU employees can use the Benefits Calculator to learn more about the full value of the benefits provided at OSU.
Key Responsibilities
80% Inspect fields of seed corn production in various stages of growth to determine the amount of silk and pollen present as it applies to the genetic purity of the final product. Collect detailed silk and pollen information and record counts during the inspections.
10% Report findings in written form and submit to the supervisor for review. Communication with supervisor and other team members by cell phone.
10% Driving to field sites.
What We Require
Two years of college-level courses in (specific field of biological science); OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.
What You Will Need
Two years of college-level courses in Crop Science, Agricultural Science, or other similar field of study; OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Effective organizational and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and also as a member of a team.
This position requires driving a university vehicle or a personal vehicle on behalf of the university; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a motor vehicle history check, possess and maintain a current, valid driver’s license in their state of residence, be determined to be position qualified and self-report convictions as per University Policy 05-030.