Research Specialist Senior

The Division of Plant Sciences & Technology

The Senior Research Specialist is a full-time position within the Division of Plant Science & Technology in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) at the University of Missouri. This position is part of the Missouri Grape and Wine Institute (GWI) and is based on the University of Missouri campus in Columbia, Missouri.

The successful candidate functions as a member of the viticulture program team and collaborates with all GWI faculty members to advance the program by: providing effective and efficient management of viticulture program projects including establishing and maintaining research plots, ordering supplies and equipment, maintaining equipment; conducting viticulture experiments; collecting, managing and statistically analyzing data; preparing reports and assisting with manuscripts; providing assistance for workshops, conferences, field days and short courses; maintaining research files and records. The emphasis of the position will be executing field duties as needed to maintain the health of research plots and assisting with field data collection. Additionally, the successful candidate will work closely with the Missouri grape and wine industry to support the industry's educational needs.

With guidance from faculty members the successful candidate supervises and coordinates the management of research vineyards. Specific tasks include; pruning, canopy management, fruit load management, pest management, pesticide application, nutrient management, irrigation and harvest. The individual monitors the vineyards for pests and implements pest management programs that are in line with common commercial practices for the region. Keeps accurate records of pest management activities and material inventories. In addition, the candidate coordinates vineyard development activities, site preparation, trellis construction, planting and grafting, and irrigation installation. Provides training and supervises additional vineyard personnel. Responsible for scheduling work assignments and training in pesticide and equipment safety. Provides supervision of additional vineyard personnel and internal and external contractors to assure vineyard success.

Monday - Friday; 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Bachelor's degree and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Master's in viticulture, plant sciences, soil sciences, agronomy, or related field or two or more years commercial vineyard experience is desired. The successful candidate must obtain within 3 months of hire certification as a Missouri Pesticide Applicator.

Salary Range: $53,976.00- $69,576.00 annually
Grade: Salary Plan # GGS 9E
University Title: Senior Research Specialist

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements. Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

MU Application, Resume/CV, cover letter, and contact information for references will be required for hire.

Employment visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/departments-staff/human-resources/benefits-retirement

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.