Research Specialist
Posting Number: SP004833P
Division/College: College of Agricultural & Life Sciences
Department: Soil and Water Systems
Location: Moscow
Posting Context Statement:
The University of Idaho’s Department of Soil and Water Systems (SWS) is seeking a Research Specialist to support Idaho’s statewide organic and sustainable agriculture program. The position is based in Moscow. The successful candidate will assist in laboratory and field-based research, data collection, and outreach activities related to organic and sustainable agriculture. In this role, responsibilities will be split between supporting Idaho’s Sustainable Organic Agriculture program—focusing on research areas such as livestock-crop, nutrient/water management, cover cropping, pest management, and soil health—and assisting broader departmental research initiatives.
Position Overview:
Performs research activities and analysis, recording observations and measurements, and reports results. Participates in analyzing and preparing results for publication. Works under general supervision.
Duties may include:
- Prepare standard solutions for calibration and analyses
- Interpret test results and comparing with determined standards and limits
- Collect laboratory or field data
- Conduct research and analysis of scientific data
- Participate in research design discussions
- Perform literature reviews
- Prepare reports
- Compare data and historical records for trend verification
- Develop reference files, comparison charts, and graphs on research data
- Assist with site inspections and field oversight
- Have little or no supervisory responsibilities
- Other duties as assigned
Required Experience:
- Following pre-established procedures or protocols
- Collecting and reviewing scientific data
- Keeping complete and accurate records
- Working in a team environment
Required Education:
- Bachelor’s Degree in agronomy, soil, plant, ecology or other related natural resource science
Required Other:
- Must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to drive University vehicles
- Must be able to travel regionally
Additional Preferred:
- Master’s degree in agronomy, soil, plant, ecology or other related natural resource science.
- Understanding of organic and sustainable research practices
- Experience operating laboratory analytical equipment (combustion elemental analyzers, spectrophotometer, Shimadzu TOC-L), and using in situ field sensors and data loggers
- Experience operating small machinery (tractors, hydraulic soil samplers)
- Experience managing student employees
- Ability to multi-task and set priorities to accomplish goals and objectives across multiple projects
Physical Requirements & Working Conditions:
- Ability to lift, carry, or otherwise move heavy objects up to 50 lbs
Degree Requirement:
Listed degree qualification is required at time of application
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Employee Category: Classified
Pay Range: $23.00 per hour or higher depending on experience
Type of Appointment: _of_Appointment
FTE: 1
Full Time/Part Time: Full Time
Funding: This position is contingent upon the continuation of work and/or funding.
A visa sponsorship is available for the position listed in this vacancy: Uncertain
Posting Date: 04/24/2025
Closing Date:
Open Until Filled: Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants: Applications received by April 29, 2025, will receive first consideration.
Along with your online application, write a letter of qualification addressing how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed.
In addition, your application materials must include a CV, transcripts, and names & contact information for at least three (3) professional references.
For questions, please contact:Kendall Kahl
Soils and Water Systems
208-885-7505kkahl@uidaho.edu
Applicant Resources: https://www.uidaho.edu/human-resources/careers/applicant-resources
Background Check Statement: Applicants who are selected as final possible candidates must be able to pass a criminal background check.
The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.