Washington State University’s prestigious tree fruit extension lab is actively seeking a talented Agricultural Research Technologist for the summer 2026 field season in Wenatchee, Washington. This hands-on research role supports three long-term agricultural research experiments (LTARE) exploring soil carbon dynamics and replant disease management in apple and cherry orchards. An outstanding entry-level opportunity for anyone passionate about applied soil science and the tree fruit industry!
Long-Term Agricultural Research Excellence (LTARE)
Trial 1 — Apple Orchards: Mulch treatments, high-carbon compost/manure inputs, integrated organic vs. standard management
Trial 2 — Cherry Orchards: Replication of apple trial in cherry growing systems
Trial 3 — Replant Disease: Brassica seedmeal & anaerobic soil disinfestation as fumigation alternatives
Funding: Washington Soil Health Initiative — designed by scientists, farmers, and industry professionals
WSU Tree Fruit Research & Extension Center — Wenatchee, WA
World-Class Facility: 1100 N. Western Ave., Wenatchee, Washington 98801
Collaborative Environment: WSU faculty, USDA-ARS scientists, and global students
Field Work: Mostly outdoor fieldwork — early morning starts (from 6:00 AM) to beat the afternoon heat
Career Entry Point: Perfect gateway into soil science, applied horticulture, and agricultural research
Position Overview
This Agricultural Research Technologist position is a season-long field research role based at WSU’s Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center in Wenatchee, Washington. You will work alongside the research coordinator to collect and process a wide range of soil, plant, and fruit quality data across three innovative long-term agricultural experiments. The role is well suited for current students or recent graduates looking for meaningful, hands-on experience in soil science, horticulture, or applied biology within the Pacific Northwest’s world-renowned tree fruit industry.
Why This Role Matters: As an Agricultural Research Technologist at WSU TFREC, you actively contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes the future of sustainable tree fruit farming across Washington State — learning from leading USDA-ARS scientists and WSU faculty, building real field research skills, and gaining experience that opens doors into careers in agronomy, soil health, horticulture, and beyond.
Roles & Responsibilities
Data Collection & Field Sampling
- Work alongside research coordinator to collect and process field samples including mow and blow, stem water potential, stomatal conductance, and fruit quality measurements
- Upload soil moisture data on a weekly basis with accuracy and consistency
- Conduct soil sampling across all three LTARE experiments following strict replicated block design protocols
- Perform root and rhizosphere sampling in all three experimental sites
- Record trunk diameter measurements in all three research experiments
- Assist with harvest activities in the Honeycrisp apple trial
Tree Fruit Horticulture
- Perform tree training for young cherry plantings — a substantial component of the role
- Conduct irrigation scouting and monitoring across field sites
- Support orchard management tasks to maintain research plot integrity
Data Management & Documentation
- Scan data collection sheets and enter data as needed into research systems
- Maintain accurate and organized field research records
- Assist principal investigators with specific tasks related to LTARE research projects
- Support preparation of field reports and documentation as required
Desired Candidate Profile
Required Qualifications
- Physical ability to bend, twist, stoop, carry, and lift work materials weighing up to 35 pounds
- Ability to work in all weather conditions including Washington summer heat and cold mornings
- Strong ability to communicate, follow instructions, and collaborate in English
- Genuine interest in soils, agriculture, and biology — curiosity is essential
- Availability for at least 3 days per week (can flex up to 5 days for the right candidate)
Preferred Qualifications
- Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Soil Science, Biology, or related field
- Prior experience working in a research setting is a significant asset
- Valid driver’s license (or ability to obtain at time of hire)
- Ability to drive manual transmission vehicles
- Understanding of replicated block experimental design and the importance of sampling consistency
- Spanish language fluency — a valuable plus given the multicultural agricultural workforce
About Washington State University Tree Fruit Research & Extension Center
WSU TFREC is one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier agricultural research institutions, hosting WSU faculty, USDA-ARS scientists, and students from around the world — all with the shared goal of strengthening Washington State’s globally significant tree fruit industry. The LTARE projects sit at the heart of TFREC’s extension mission: delivering research-based, practical solutions directly to farmers growing apples, cherries, and other tree fruits.
Working here means contributing to science that matters — helping orchardists reduce water use, build healthier soils, fight replant disease without fumigation, and farm more sustainably for future generations. It is a rare summer experience that shapes careers in agriculture, soil health, and environmental science.
How to Apply — Agricultural Research Technologist
Application Method: Send your resume directly via email or phone
Contact Person: Sarah Gafner-Bergeron, Research Coordinator
Email: s.gafner-bergeron@wsu.edu
Phone: (802) 777-0133
Application: Resume + brief statement of interest recommended
Who Should Apply?
- Agricultural Science Students: Seeking meaningful summer fieldwork alongside university researchers and USDA scientists
- Soil Science Enthusiasts: Passionate about soil carbon, soil health, and organic matter management
- Horticulture Graduates: With interest in tree fruit production and long-term orchard research
- Biology Undergraduates: Wanting hands-on applied research experience in Pacific Northwest agriculture
- Early-Career Researchers: Looking to build foundational skills in field data collection and agricultural research methods
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