Lead Agricultural Technician

What You'll be Doing: Work directly with PAC staff, faculty, and graduate students to implement field research trials at the Davis Purdue Agricultural Center (DPAC). Review and evaluate research protocols for each trial, making recommendations to ensure the efficient use of DPAC resources. Independently lead the scheduling and operation of the field equipment fleet used for field preparation, plot layout, planting, pesticide application, harvesting, and the collection of research data. Utilize precision agriculture technologies to program and operate research equipment for variable-rate planting, pesticide application, and yield data collection based on research requirements provided by faculty and graduate students. Monitor crop conditions through field scouting and adjust field operations as needed to support research objectives. What We're Looking For: Education and Experience Qualified Candidates Will Need: Bachelor's degree 2 years of experience with equipment operation, setup, repair, modification, and maintenance In lieu of degree, consideration will be given to an equivalent combination of related education and required experience (Associate's degree + 4 years of experience; HS/GED + 6 years of experience) Use of Precision Ag technologies Agricultural and heavy equipment operation Welding experience preferred Skills Needed: Obtain certification and/or licensing in regulated areas as needed (example: possess or have the ability to acquire Category 1, 11, and 14 pesticide applicator licenses within one year of hire) Acquire a Part 107 drone license Acquire a Part 137 aerial applicator license Acquire a Class A CDL within 12 months of employment Become approved to drive Purdue University vehicles What We’d Like You To Know: This position is located in Farmland, IN To learn more about Purdue’s benefits summary CLICK HERE Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position A background check will be required for employment in this position FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible For Overtime) Retirement Eligibility: Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan Career Stream Administrative and Operational Support 4 Pay Band: S055 Job Code: 20003402 Career Path Maker: <https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/> Who We Are Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture. Equal Opportunity Employer Purdue University is an EA/EO employer.