Research Associate, Strawberry Center

It's fun to work in a company where people truly believe in what they are doing!

Job Description:

Job Summary

As an integral part of a research and education team at the Strawberry Center, the Research Associate will plan and execute laboratory- and field-based research under supervision of the Center’s Entomology program leader.  Efforts will be focused on research to improve the sustainability of strawberry production in California and will be closely aligned with the priorities established annually by the California Strawberry Commission. Current research priorities include insect and disease management, farming without fumigants, irrigation, water quality and nutrient management, labor-saving automation and other important issues in California strawberry production.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and execute laboratory- and field-based research using sound experimental design and a thorough understanding of the biological systems being studied. 
• Collect, organize and summarize experimental data.  Operate personal computer with proficient use of the Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word, Excel , and PowerPoint. Use of a statistical software package such as R, SAS, ARM, or any similar system will be required.
• Review literature, research results, testing procedures, and laboratory operations.
• Train, assist and provide supervision and mentoring of students and other staff working on Strawberry Center projects and related activities.
• Work with, apply and safely handle agricultural chemicals such as insecticides, fungicides, soil fumigants, biological control agents, fertilizers and other products currently in use or for experimental purposes.
• Plan and execute assigned duties related to educational activities (i.e. short courses, symposia, special projects, etc.)
• Follow good agricultural practices to ensure compliance with laws and regulations and common-sense regarding safety.
• Order and maintain needed inventory of research and farming supplies.

• Build and maintain partnerships with research teams including growers, part-time labor, researchers, and scientists to successfully execute projects.

• Operate and maintain equipment.  Laboratory equipment may include: stereo-microscope, scale, environmental chambers, drying ovens, etc.  Field equipment may include:  backpack and tractor-mounted spray equipment, drip and sprinkler irrigation, pumping and injection systems, tractors and implements
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace including office, vehicles, storage and field.

• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Report all lab issues to the entomologist as soon as possible.

Position Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited four-year university with an agricultural degree (entomology, horticulture, agronomy, plant pathology, soil science, etc.) or completion of four-year college degree plus two years of agricultural field experience OR at 4.5+ years working in the agricultural field.
• Obtain a Qualified Applicator License (QAL) or Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC) from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation within the first year of employment.
• Ability to occasionally work long hours to meet deadlines and complete projects.
• Valid California driver’s license and satisfactory driving record
• Ability to travel to strawberry production regions within California
• Demonstrated skills or aptitude in technical writing and statistical analysis
• Ability to use standard office software applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, publishing, electronic mail, and calendaring systems
• Ability to prioritize, plan, organize, and meet deadlines
• Ability to hire and lead others in managing tasks; train and evaluate the performance of assigned personnel
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationship with a diverse population
• Excellent verbal and written skills, including English grammar, spelling, punctuation, composition, and proof reading
• Ability to maintain a strong dedicated work ethic
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationship with others
• Excellent verbal and written skills and the ability to interface with all levels of staff, university community, including students, faculty and staff, and the public
• Ability to maintain a variety of complex and confidential files and records
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual and reliable attendance
• The person holding this position is considered a ‘mandated reporter’ under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment
• A background check is required for all regular benefited positions

Preferred qualifications

• Master’s degree in the agricultural sciences, entomology as field of study preferred OR 6+ years equivalent work experience.
• At least 3+ years of formal/informal supervisory or management experience
• Ability to communicate in Spanish
• Ability to use Adobe Creative Suite or other video editing applications
• Self-starter, entrepreneurial mindset
• Ability to start employment within 1 month of accepting offer

Physical Requirements

• Hearing and speaking to exchange information in person or on the telephone.
• Dexterity of hands, fingers, and wrists to operate a computer keyboard and calculator.
• Seeing to read a variety of materials.
• Sitting or standing for extended periods of time.
• Physical agility to lift 50 pounds to shoulder height.
• Physical agility to lift, carry, push, or pull objects.
• Must be able to withstand working outdoors when necessary.
• Commuting on an as-needed basis to travel to strawberry production regions within California.

Hiring Range:

$29.69-$49/hr

If you like growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us! 

Cal Poly Partners, an equal employment opportunity employer, is strongly committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce. The University actively encourages applications of all qualified individuals.

The department will evaluate experience and education to determine placement into appropriate position level. Subject to continued grant/center funding.

Cal Poly Partners provides excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, paid sick leave/vacation and 14 holidays.

Employees are eligible to participate in the CP Partners Medical Insurance Plan offered through the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS). Employees have different plans from which to choose including HMOs and PPOs. The coverage includes the employee, his/her dependents, or domestic partner. The CP Partners cover a large portion of the medical premium for the employee and eligible dependents.

All employees are members of the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) and will contribute to their retirement; these contributions can be refunded if the employee terminates prior to retirement.

Please visit our website for additional benefits information.  Employee Benefits (sharepoint.com)

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check, educational and employment verification, and reference check, as required.

EEO/Disability/Protected Veteran Employer