Agricultural Data Researcher - Morris, MN

Agricultural Data Researcher - Morris, MN

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Position Overview
The Agricultural Data Technician is a 100% full-time position located at the West Central Research and Outreach Center (WCROC) in Morris, MN and will support a multi-site precision agriculture research initiative focused on reducing agricultural inputs while improving environmental and economic outcomes for farmers. This position is part of a statewide sentinel farm network designed to generate foundational data for the development of precision agriculture best management practices (BMPs).

This position will work within commercial-scale cropping systems and assist with large-scale field data collection, geospatial data management, and precision technology implementation. This role includes both outdoor field work and computer-based data management and analysis.
This is a two-year, externally funded appointment with potential for extension based on continued funding.

Key Responsibilities
Field Research & Data Collection (35%)

• Conduct soil, plant, and other crop sampling.
• Collect and verify agricultural equipment monitoring data.
• Record field observations and maintain accurate sampling documentation.
• Travel between research sites as needed.
• Support ground-truthing activities for remote sensing and modeling efforts.

Precision Agriculture Technology Support (25%)

• Assist with UAV (drone) operations and imagery collection.
• Download and organize multispectral, RGB, and satellite imagery datasets.
• Manage GIS shapefiles and tractor-generated spatial datasets.
• Support data integration across multiple agricultural software platforms.
• Conduct basic quality control of spatial and agronomic datasets.

Data Management & Reporting (15%)

• Organize and clean datasets using Excel and related software.
• Assist in summarizing findings for research reports and outreach materials.
• Generate tables, graphs, and summary statistics.
• Support secure archival storage and documentation of datasets.

Equipment & Operational Support (10%)

• Assist in calibration, operations, and maintenance of agricultural field equipment and sensors.
• Support setup and monitoring of GPS, controllers, and precision application systems.
• Troubleshoot minor mechanical and technical issues.
• Follow safety and compliance requirements, including UAV regulations.

Outreach and Communication Activities (10%)

• Assist in preparation of handouts and written content.
• Represent the project at trade shows, exhibitions, and outreach events.
• Organize photos and videos for use in outreach materials.

Other Duties as Assigned (5%)

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree plus at least two years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least six years in an area of Agronomy, Plant Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Agricultural Systems Management, or a related science field.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel between research sites.
• Ability to work outdoors in variable weather conditions.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and comfort working around agricultural equipment.
• Ability to perform physically demanding field tasks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Midwest crop production systems.
• Familiarity with precision agriculture technologies (yield monitors, variable rate equipment, GPS systems).
• Experience with GIS platforms (e.g., QGIS, ArcGIS) or agricultural data software.
• Experience operating or assisting with drone-based data collection.
• Advanced Excel skills.
• Basic programming experience (Python, R, or similar).
• Previous experience working on a research farm or commercial farm.

Working Conditions

• Combination of outdoor field work and indoor computer-based work.
• Seasonal workload variation aligned with planting and harvest schedules.
• Occasional travel to other Minnesota research locations.
• Exposure to farm environments including dust, noise, and uneven terrain.

The University of Minnesota's West Central Research and Outreach Center (WCROC) is a 1,100 acre research farm located in Morris, MN. The WCROC is part of the University of MN College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Sciences providing a tradition of excellence in applied agricultural research and education for farmers and rural communities in crop production, animal sciences, horticulture, water quality, organic and conventional dairy, swine production, and renewable energy.

Pay Range: $26.50 - $28.50 per hour, depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

Resume and Cover Letter are required. Priority deadline: May 21, 2026

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).