Under specific direction, performs entry-level scientific and technical duties in support of research and investigates studies concerning biological, chemical and physical sciences as applied to agriculture.

Positions allocated to this class are responsible for performing technical and scientific duties in an agricultural discipline under regular supervision of the principal investigator according to prescribed procedures. Incumbents carry out experiments where goals and methods are defined by the supervisor.

Positions at this level collect and record information regarding experiments but have limited responsibility for the statistical analysis and summarization of data. Incumbents normally perform work requiring either college-level academic preparation or agricultural experience specifically applicable to their assignment.

Conducts standardized experimental tests including the collection, recording and summarization of data;

Collects animal, plant and soil samples;

Assists in animal surgery and plant dissection;

Performs standardized and repetitive technical procedures, routine diagnostic tests, and mathematical calculations;

Prepares reagents, solutions, cultures, media, fertilizers and feeds, etc., in accordance with established formulae;

Cultivates bacteria, insects, fungi, viruses and tissue cultures;

Catalogues materials in accordance with standardized scientific procedures;

Operates, calibrates, and maintains a variety of technical analytical equipment and instrumentation to examine and measure biological, chemical, and physical properties of various plant and animal materials;

Surveys technical literature to enhance personal understanding and/or to obtain pertinent information in accordance with researcher's outline;

Assists with the instruction of temporary employees and students regarding laboratory procedures;

Inventories and orders supplies;

Performs related duties as required.

Knowledge of: principles, practices and application of technical skills required in research and/or applied science to include: basic statistics; laboratory techniques; basic surveying; sample construction; maintenance of scientific equipment.

Ability to: survey and map research plots; maintain laboratory, greenhouse and field equipment, understand and follow written work plans; collect and compile data, input data into established computer programs, construct graphs, tables and charts; deal effectively with public; write internal reports.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

Baccalaureate Degree in the applied, biological, chemical, physical or agricultural sciences;

OR

Four years of full-time experience as a Technical Farm Laborer, or equivalent.

New Class: 7-14-77
General revision. Revises title (formerly Agricultural Research Technologist I), class code (formerly 4504), typical work, minimum qualifications; adds knowledge and abilities; effective July 1, 2007.