K-State Research and Extension is hiring a Crop Research Technologist to perform specialized technical agronomic work supporting research programs at the Southeast Research & Extension Center. This position coordinates grain crop and forage research through field plot management, planting and harvesting, and the collection, management, and analysis of research data.
About the Role
Core Function: Specialized technical agronomic work supporting grain crop and forage research
Base of Operations: Southeast Research and Extension Center, Parsons, KS
Primary Worksite: Mound Valley, KS field site
Additional Scope: Supporting beef cattle research through cattle care and management
Career Opportunity in Kansas Agricultural Research
Strategic Location: Parsons, Kansas — home to K-State’s Southeast Research & Extension Center
Statewide Partnership: K-State Research and Extension partners with federal, state, and county government
Technical Depth: Hands-on experience with precision agriculture technologies and specialized equipment
Career Growth: A supportive, inclusive community dedicated to professional growth at Kansas State University
Position Overview
This Crop Research Technologist role involves operating and troubleshooting specialized agricultural equipment and precision agriculture technologies, calibrating, diagnosing, modifying, and repairing equipment used to implement research protocols. You will conduct field and laboratory evaluations, collect and manage research data, support beef cattle research through cattle care and management, and maintain equipment and facilities necessary for research and station operations.
 Why This Role Matters: As Crop Research Technologist at K-State Research and Extension, you play a direct role in advancing grain crop and forage research shared statewide through Extension programs, apply specialized technical skills operating and repairing precision agriculture equipment and technologies, contribute to research that informs agricultural practices across Kansas, gain hands-on cross-disciplinary experience supporting both crop and beef cattle research, and join a supportive, inclusive university community offering comprehensive benefits and professional growth opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
Field Research & Crop Management
- Coordinate grain crop and forage research through field plot management, planting, and harvesting
- Conduct field and laboratory evaluations
- Collect, manage, and analyze research data
Equipment Operation & Maintenance
- Operate and troubleshoot specialized agricultural equipment and precision agriculture technologies
- Calibrate, diagnose, modify, and repair equipment used to implement research protocols
- Maintain equipment and facilities necessary to support research and station operations
Beef Cattle Research Support
- Support related beef cattle research through cattle care and management
Qualifications & Requirements
Educational Requirements
- Associate degree and two years of relevant experience
- Education beyond the minimum may count toward required experience if deemed relevant
Licensing Requirements
- Valid driver’s license
- Must be capable and willing to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) if not already licensed
- Must be certified, or capable and willing to be certified, to apply restricted-use pesticides
Preferred Qualifications
- Associate degree with a major in Agriculture, Animal Science, or a related field
- Ability to drive large and small farm equipment safely and skillfully
- Ability to recognize plant diseases and signs of insect infestation
- Knowledge of pesticide hazards and safe use of agricultural chemicals
- Ability to set up, calibrate, and operate precision agricultural equipment
- Ability to communicate in English, both orally and in writing
About K-State Research and Extension
K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service — a partnership between Kansas State University and federal, state, and county government, with offices in every Kansas county. Research conducted throughout Kansas is shared by Extension agents through websites, conferences, workshops, field days, publications, and newsletters. Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community with comprehensive benefits including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off.
Career Excellence: Advance grain crop and forage research shared across Kansas through K-State’s Extension network.
Who Should Apply?
- Agricultural/Animal Science Graduates: With an associate degree in a related field
- Precision Agriculture Technicians: Comfortable calibrating and operating specialized equipment
- Farm Equipment Operators: Skilled driving large and small farm equipment safely
- Pesticide-Certified or Certifiable Candidates: Willing to obtain restricted-use pesticide certification
- CDL-Eligible Drivers: Holding or willing to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License
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