Seasonal Crop Research Assistant

Term: April 28 – August 29, 2025 (adjustable based on school schedules)


Hours: Monday – Friday, 40 hours/week (some overtime may be required)


Compensation: $19–$23 per hour 

Accelerate your career by joining our team!

Farming Smarter needs several enthusiastic, hardworking students to join our team for the summer of 2025. You will gain practical experience in crop research, crop & pest identification, irrigation, soil quality and testing, data collection and analysis, sprayer applications, GIS, communication, leadership, and more.

Duties & Responsibilities:

·      Assist with Scientific Research: Support the planning, implementation, and monitoring of scientific research trials on various field crops.

·      Training and Equipment Handling: Receive professional training in the safe loading and unloading of equipment onto trailers, as well as the operation of side-by-sides.

·      Operate Field Equipment: After training, operate small plot field equipment, including tractors, sprayers, and mowers, to conduct research trials.

·      Prepare Seeding Materials: Weigh and prepare seed and fertilizer for seeding small research plots.

·      Seed Research Plots: Seed small plot trials for crop research and experimentation.

·      Plot setup: Flag and stake research plots to ensure proper identification and accurate data collection.

·      Pesticide Application: After training, apply pesticides to test plots following all safety protocols and research guidelines.

·      Data Collection: Accurately record data on crop and weed biomass, pest presence, soil conditions, and other research parameters.

·      Plot Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance tasks on research plots, including mowing, trimming, weeding, and other necessary activities to maintain plot integrity.

·      Calibrate and Maintain Equipment: Calibrate and maintain field equipment to ensure optimal performance for research purposes.

·      Additional Support: Provide assistance to staff with various other duties as required to ensure the smooth running of research activities and extension events.

Skills and Qualifications:

·      Punctual, reliable, and comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions

·      Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions

·      Proficiency in MS office/excel/other software programs

·      Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively

·      Strong interpersonal and communication skills

·      Positive attitude with a strong willingness to learn and grow

·      Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team environment

·      Valid Class 5 driver’s license with a clean driver’s abstract

·      Current enrollment or completion of a post secondary program in Agriculture, Environmental Science, or a related field is preferred, but not required

·      Previous agricultural or farm experience or experience with small plot field trials is considered an asset but not required

Why Join Farming Smarter?

•            Learning Opportunities: Gain valuable, hands-on experience in the field of crop research and farm innovation.

•            Supportive Team Environment: Work with a collaborative, dynamic team that fosters learning, growth, and career development.

•            Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a fun and rewarding work environment with a flexible approach to work/life balance.

•            Competitive Pay: Competitive hourly wage based on your level of education.

About Our Culture:

Farming Smarter exists to drive agriculture innovation at the farm level. We attract a community of passionate innovators and provide agronomic testing, scientific knowledge, and the right connections for them to succeed. We are a trusted source for regional adaptation of profitable and resilient crops, cropping systems, and agronomic practices. Farming Smarter instills a culture of innovation and takes a bottom-up approach that is gritty, practical, and achievable. As a flexible and responsive organization, we take chances, break the rules, and encourage failure so we can learn. We adapt and excel at innovation development and adoption. This is crucial to keep farmers competitive and viable in a complex and dynamic environment.

For more information about our organization, visit our website at www.farmingsmarter.com

Please visit our careers page to see more job opportunities.