Colorado State University
Research Associate I Potato Crop Management
Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, us, 80523
Position Summary
The Research Associate I, Potato Crop Management will support field and laboratory activities for soil fertility and agronomic work at the San Luis Valley Research Center (SLVRC). The role requires a combination of field and laboratory skills and knowledge of analytical methodologies.
Responsibilities
Supervise non‑student hourly employees in field and laboratory data collection.
Collect petiole and tuber samples for nutrient analysis and crop evaluation.
Conduct end‑of‑season harvests to assess treatment effects on yield.
Assist in layout and management of experimental plots.
Enter data into Excel spreadsheets and SAS statistical programs.
Apply fertilizers, water, and manage planting and harvesting of experimental plots on/off station.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree, OR Associate’s Degree plus 2 years of professional work experience, OR High School Diploma (or GED) plus four years of professional experience with an emphasis in field crop production.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, including frequent heavy lifting (50 lbs), manual dexterity, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and handling.
Willingness and ability to work in adverse field conditions.
Basic computer skills and experience with Microsoft Office.
Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one by the employment start date.
Private Applicator Pesticide License, or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire.
Preferred Qualifications
Completed BS in a relevant sub‑discipline of Agricultural Sciences (e.g., Horticulture, Soil and Crop Sciences, Agricultural Biology, or Water Sciences).
Knowledge, understanding, and ability to advance SLV production systems impacting Colorado agriculture and the environment.
Demonstrated experience in research and extension, including horticultural production, agroecology, and/or regenerative agriculture.
Ability to establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships within the university and engagement with external collaborators.
Compensation and Benefits Proposed annual salary range: $40,000 to $45,000. Full benefits package available, including health, dental, vision, retirement, and additional perks of working at CSU. For detailed benefits information, please review the CSU benefits page.
Application Instructions
Cover letter addressing required and preferred qualifications.
Current resume.
Contact information for two professional references (references will not be contacted without prior notification).
Optional upload of unofficial transcripts or HS/GED certification.
Apply online by October 27, 2025, 11:59 pm (MT). Applicants may redact age, date of birth, and dates of attendance from their materials. CSU is committed to full inclusion of qualified individuals. If you need accommodations with the search process, please contact the listed search contact.
Conditions of Employment
Pre‑employment criminal background check (required for new hires).
Valid driver’s license.
Private pesticide license (or ability to obtain).
Search contact: Samuel Essah – samuel.essah@colostate.edu.
EEO Statement Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Background Check Policy Statement Colorado State University conducts background checks for finalists before a final offer to support a safe work environment. The type of check depends on the position and may include criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks may also be conducted when required by law or contract or at the discretion of the University.
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Responsibilities
Supervise non‑student hourly employees in field and laboratory data collection.
Collect petiole and tuber samples for nutrient analysis and crop evaluation.
Conduct end‑of‑season harvests to assess treatment effects on yield.
Assist in layout and management of experimental plots.
Enter data into Excel spreadsheets and SAS statistical programs.
Apply fertilizers, water, and manage planting and harvesting of experimental plots on/off station.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree, OR Associate’s Degree plus 2 years of professional work experience, OR High School Diploma (or GED) plus four years of professional experience with an emphasis in field crop production.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, including frequent heavy lifting (50 lbs), manual dexterity, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and handling.
Willingness and ability to work in adverse field conditions.
Basic computer skills and experience with Microsoft Office.
Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one by the employment start date.
Private Applicator Pesticide License, or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire.
Preferred Qualifications
Completed BS in a relevant sub‑discipline of Agricultural Sciences (e.g., Horticulture, Soil and Crop Sciences, Agricultural Biology, or Water Sciences).
Knowledge, understanding, and ability to advance SLV production systems impacting Colorado agriculture and the environment.
Demonstrated experience in research and extension, including horticultural production, agroecology, and/or regenerative agriculture.
Ability to establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships within the university and engagement with external collaborators.
Compensation and Benefits Proposed annual salary range: $40,000 to $45,000. Full benefits package available, including health, dental, vision, retirement, and additional perks of working at CSU. For detailed benefits information, please review the CSU benefits page.
Application Instructions
Cover letter addressing required and preferred qualifications.
Current resume.
Contact information for two professional references (references will not be contacted without prior notification).
Optional upload of unofficial transcripts or HS/GED certification.
Apply online by October 27, 2025, 11:59 pm (MT). Applicants may redact age, date of birth, and dates of attendance from their materials. CSU is committed to full inclusion of qualified individuals. If you need accommodations with the search process, please contact the listed search contact.
Conditions of Employment
Pre‑employment criminal background check (required for new hires).
Valid driver’s license.
Private pesticide license (or ability to obtain).
Search contact: Samuel Essah – samuel.essah@colostate.edu.
EEO Statement Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Background Check Policy Statement Colorado State University conducts background checks for finalists before a final offer to support a safe work environment. The type of check depends on the position and may include criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks may also be conducted when required by law or contract or at the discretion of the University.
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