Position InformationClassification TitleTemporary HourlyEmployment CategoryTemporaryIs this an Hourly position?YesWork Hours/Week32-40Overtime Eligible?YesPosition LocationHotchkiss, CODoes this position qualify for hybrid or remote work?NoDescription of Work UnitThe Western Colorado Research Center ( WCRC ) consists of three research sites that collaborate to advance knowledge in the agricultural, biological, soil, and water-related sciences while also promoting regional engagement in community development, food systems, and natural resources projects. The three sites are: WCRC – Orchard Mesa (OM) in Grand Junction, CO, WCRC – Rogers Mesa (RM) near Hotchkiss, CO, and WCRC – Grand Valley in Fruita, CO.WCRC -RM, located west of Hotchkiss, CO, focuses on applied organic agricultural research on regional crops such as apples, peaches, grapes, and mixed vegetables. Research areas include plant disease prevention and treatment, measuring soil health through management practices, organic integrated pest management, variety and rootstock trials, and community initiatives.The position will be based at WCRC -RM near Hotchkiss, CO.Search Contact [email protected] SummaryThis position will perform general labor and research farm support at WCRC -RM. Duties may include weed removal, planting, harvesting and post-harvest care, irrigation assistance, plant measurements, orchard management, fruit thinning, and data collection.The position will support WCRC -RM research and farm activities in the field, greenhouse, laboratory, and office. The applicant must be willing to work outside for extended periods. To avoid the heat in the summer months, hours may be in the early mornings and potentially evenings.The applicant must have a current driver’s license and a personal means of transportation to/from WCRC -RM. This position may include occasional negotiated time on weekends. The employee will be expected to attend weekly meetings with station personnel.Position Minimum Qualifications
Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively with others, as a team member.
Ability to work in environmental conditions such as inclement weather and to meet daily functional demands such as strenuous and repetitive field tasks, including lifting 50 pounds.
Must have a valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Preferred Qualifications
Previous work experience in farming or gardening (at least one year).
Strong desire to work in agriculture and/or to pursue agricultural research.
Detail-oriented and self-motivated.
Capable in computer applications for word processing and spreadsheet management.
Posting DetailsWorking TitleResearch Field Technician - WCRC-RMPosting Number202500095TDepartmentWestern Colorado Research CenterSalary Range$17-$20 per hourEmployee BenefitsColorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
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Close Date03/07/2025Special Instructions to ApplicantsApply by emailing your current resume to: [email protected] ([email protected]) . Please also include contact information for 1 to 3 references. References will not be contacted without prior notification to the applicant.Background Check Policy StatementColorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.EEOColorado 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.Essential Job DutiesJob Duty CategoryField SupportDuty/Responsibility
Perform planting, irrigating, cultivating, weeding, harvesting, storing crops and various tasks important to the research initiatives and farm operations at WCRC -RM
Data collection, processing, and entry
Facilities maintenance
Percentage Of Time70%ReferencesMinimum References Required3Maximum References Required3Documents Needed To ApplyRequired Documents
Resume
Cover Letter
Optional Documents