Field Research Technician

Position: Field Research Technician

Posting reference: AB24RT01 (include in email subject line)

Term(s): May – Aug 31 or longer, up to Nov 30

Location: Fort Saskatchewan (Josephburg), AB (5 positions)

If YOU like agriculture, have a passion for growing crops and are inquisitive, then ICMS is the place for YOU. As a member of this team, you will assist with field experiments that evaluate products and systems which improve the health and quality of Canadian crops. ICMS is recognized as a premiere provider of contract research services in the development, implementation and conduct of research in the areas of crop breeding, agronomy, and evaluation of product efficacy of crop protection products, inoculants, plant growth regulators, fertilizers, seed coatings, and many other agricultural products. We are dedicated to providing accurate and meaningful data to local, national and international clientele. This is a great opportunity to work with a company that offers innovation, excellent earning potential with competitive salary, great benefits, learning experience in all aspects of agriculture, and a great opportunity to apply your education to everyday tasks.

This position is based at our Josephburg, AB research station conducting trial work within the Strathcona, Sturgeon and Lamont County regions on a wide selection of crops such as canola, soybean, corn, potatoes, flax, alfalfa, wheat, barley and oats to name a few. You will assist the Research Agronomist with setting up research trials on various crops by planting and maintaining crops, applying treatments, collecting data, irrigation, tractor operation and communicating with management.

Skills and Responsibilities: Candidates which feel that they possess these capabilities currently are encouraged to apply. Candidates not currently possessing these qualities should be capable of learning and delivering these qualities and skills by the end of their term.

Agronomy and Horticulture Skills

• Be able to identify weeds, diseases and insects which are common to the crops grown in Canada.
• Be able to successfully complete basic math associated with agriculture such as conversion calculations, fertilizer and pesticide application rates, application water volumes, and mix sizes to name a few.
• Be able to properly prepare a seedbed and operate a seed drill or other planting device to establish a crop.
• Be able to grow agronomic or horticultural crops that will be equivalent to local agriculture standards.

Equipment Skills

• Use of iPads and iPhones for the use of data collection and reporting.
• Be able to operate a sprayer and be familiar with application systems and terminology.
• Be able to safely operate a tractor and associated implements which are used in agriculture.
• Be able to operate an ATV.
• Be able to operate a truck, as well as be able to tow a 20-foot flat deck trailer loaded with equipment.
• Have enough equipment experience to be able to learn the use and operation of new equipment.
• Be attentive to operating equipment safely.

Basic Management Skills

• Be able to accept direction from the Research Agronomist and incorporate it into routine procedure.
• Be able to prioritize tasks.
• Be able to develop efficient routines.
• Understand the importance of open communication within the workplace and encourage the flow of information to the Research Agronomist.
• Work effectively both independently and with the team in a fast-paced environment, working under pressure to meet tight deadlines.

Experimental Skills

• Basic understanding of field experimental design and terminology such as: RCBD, split plot, replicate, block and plot.
• Read and understand a protocol, then breakdown the tasks associated with the experiment to adhere to the protocol requirements.
• Collect data by performing visual assessment on treatments: for weed control by comparing weed populations in treated and untreated areas, for disease control by visually assessing plants and leaves for severity and incidence, etc.
• Have excellent observation skills.

Communication Skills

• Be able to verbally communicate information to the Research Agronomist and Regional Manager.
• Be able to record information in a professional manner free from spelling, grammar and formatting errors.
• Be able to communicate in a professional manner to develop team and business relationships.
• Be able to listen actively, attentively and respond to direction.

Qualifications:

Formal Education or Equivalent

• First year to graduating students in any discipline are encouraged to apply.
• Graduates of/current students of a Diploma or Degree with a focus in agriculture, entomology, plant pathology, weed science, agronomy, crop science or plant protection would be considered an asset.
• Valid Class 5 driver’s license

Years of Experience

• Anyone with relevant skills, interests and/or work experience is encouraged to apply.
• Skills that are an asset but not mandatory: agriculture background, farm machinery experience, previous research experience and good mechanical aptitude.

Characteristics

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, excellent attention to detail, organization, and record keeping.
• Willing to travel periodically and complete tasks requiring extended work hours (early morning, evening and weekends) when necessary.
• Capable of physical tasks such as lifting (30 kg), carrying a hand-held sprayer, walking in the field, bending and operating agriculture equipment.
• Has a passion for plants and growing them.
• Ability to work in a multicultural work environment.
• Work effectively in a hot environment where temperatures can be + 30°C.

How to Apply: Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume and references by email to MyFuture@icms-inc.com and include job number AB24RT01 and job title in the email subject line.

Deadline for applications: apply as soon as possible. Suitable candidates will be hired as they apply.

Applications will be accepted as long as this notice is posted.

See: www.icms-inc.com for company information.

Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal

Salary: $19.00-$24.00 per hour

Expected hours: 30 – 50 per week

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Flexible schedule
• On-site parking

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

Supplemental pay types:

• Overtime pay

Education:

• Secondary School (preferred)

Licence/Certification:

• Driving Licence (required)

Ability to Commute:

• Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L 3Z7 (required)

Work Location: In person