Montana State University - Office of Student Engagement
Research Associate - Cropping System * Havre, MT*
Montana State University - Office of Student Engagement, Bozeman, Montana, us, 59772
Position Overview
The Cropping Systems Lab at Montana State University’s Northern Agricultural Research Center (NARC) is seeking a motivated and focused individual to support its Cropping Systems Research Program. The successful candidate will contribute to the establishment and development of field trials focused on crop diversification, soil health, and sustainable crop production in northcentral Montana. This role involves fieldwork, data collection, equipment operation, and responsibilities in data management and supervising seasonal staff. The ideal candidate has a strong background in agronomy, crop science, or a related field; enjoys hands‑on fieldwork in variable weather conditions; and is eager to work collaboratively with researchers, producers, and stakeholders to develop resilient cropping systems for Montana’s agricultural communities.
Duties and Responsibilities
Develop and implement studies that support the Cropping Systems Research Program.
Lead the establishment of field and greenhouse studies in collaboration with PI.
Develop protocols, collect and analyze research data to meet project objectives.
Work independently and make research decisions in the absence of PI.
Supervise and train part‑time employees and student interns.
Interact effectively with researchers, producers, and agricultural industry partners.
Disseminate research findings through outreach activities, including workshops, field days, and publications.
In‑state travel is required for research, and occasional out‑of‑state travel for meetings may be required.
Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
Master’s degree in agronomy or Bachelor’s degree + 2 years of professional experience.
Experience conducting field research in agronomic crops, including plot maintenance and harvesting.
Knowledge of operating and maintaining field research equipment used for trial establishment and data collection.
Skilled in collecting and recording research data and managing datasets for statistical analysis.
Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
Proven experience with small grain and alternative crop production systems in semi‑arid regions like the Northern Great Plains.
Understanding experimental design and data interpretation tools such as SAS, R, or other statistical software packages.
Experience operating and maintaining field and laboratory research equipment.
Experience in public engagement and presenting research data at field day demonstrations or farmer meetings.
Interest in supporting greenhouse research that complements field studies related to local agricultural needs.
Desired Candidate Qualities
Have excellent organizational skills.
Work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
Follow instructions carefully, manage time effectively, and balance multiple responsibilities.
Establish and maintain effective working relations with co‑workers, faculty, staff, and producers.
Position Special Requirements / Additional Information
Must be flexible to perform duties beyond regular hours as required by research protocols.
Must possess a valid driver’s license, an acceptable driving record, and comply with all state of Montana requirements for operating State/University vehicles. A successful candidate with an out‑of‑state license must obtain a Montana license within 60 days of hire date.
Must possess or be able to obtain a Montana Department of Agriculture Government Pesticide Applicators License with demonstration and research, agricultural plant pest control, and seed treatment classifications within six months of hire.
Physical Demands
Must be able to lift 60 pounds.
Must be able to work in extreme weather conditions.
Must be able to work with and around dust, pollen-bearing plants, herbicides, and pesticides.
Must be able to walk and stand in rough terrain for extended periods.
Must be able to safely enter, exit, and operate various types of farm machinery.
EEO Statement Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law. In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans.
Applicant Documents
Resume
Cover Letter
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Duties and Responsibilities
Develop and implement studies that support the Cropping Systems Research Program.
Lead the establishment of field and greenhouse studies in collaboration with PI.
Develop protocols, collect and analyze research data to meet project objectives.
Work independently and make research decisions in the absence of PI.
Supervise and train part‑time employees and student interns.
Interact effectively with researchers, producers, and agricultural industry partners.
Disseminate research findings through outreach activities, including workshops, field days, and publications.
In‑state travel is required for research, and occasional out‑of‑state travel for meetings may be required.
Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
Master’s degree in agronomy or Bachelor’s degree + 2 years of professional experience.
Experience conducting field research in agronomic crops, including plot maintenance and harvesting.
Knowledge of operating and maintaining field research equipment used for trial establishment and data collection.
Skilled in collecting and recording research data and managing datasets for statistical analysis.
Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
Proven experience with small grain and alternative crop production systems in semi‑arid regions like the Northern Great Plains.
Understanding experimental design and data interpretation tools such as SAS, R, or other statistical software packages.
Experience operating and maintaining field and laboratory research equipment.
Experience in public engagement and presenting research data at field day demonstrations or farmer meetings.
Interest in supporting greenhouse research that complements field studies related to local agricultural needs.
Desired Candidate Qualities
Have excellent organizational skills.
Work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
Follow instructions carefully, manage time effectively, and balance multiple responsibilities.
Establish and maintain effective working relations with co‑workers, faculty, staff, and producers.
Position Special Requirements / Additional Information
Must be flexible to perform duties beyond regular hours as required by research protocols.
Must possess a valid driver’s license, an acceptable driving record, and comply with all state of Montana requirements for operating State/University vehicles. A successful candidate with an out‑of‑state license must obtain a Montana license within 60 days of hire date.
Must possess or be able to obtain a Montana Department of Agriculture Government Pesticide Applicators License with demonstration and research, agricultural plant pest control, and seed treatment classifications within six months of hire.
Physical Demands
Must be able to lift 60 pounds.
Must be able to work in extreme weather conditions.
Must be able to work with and around dust, pollen-bearing plants, herbicides, and pesticides.
Must be able to walk and stand in rough terrain for extended periods.
Must be able to safely enter, exit, and operate various types of farm machinery.
EEO Statement Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law. In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans.
Applicant Documents
Resume
Cover Letter
#J-18808-Ljbffr