Farm Technician

Title: Farm Technician

State Role Title: Laboratory and Research Specialist II

Hiring Range: up to $36,000

Pay Band: 4

Agency: Virginia State University

Location: VSU/Coop Ext & Agri Res Sta

Agency Website: www.VSU.edu

Recruitment Type: State Employee Only - E

Job Duties

The College of Agriculture provides programs and services to improve the educational and socioeconomic well-being of students, families, and communities- focusing on excellence through integrated instruction, research and extension programs. The Agricultural Research Station focuses on preparing research plots for planting, assist in the field layout and pest control. Participates in the implementation and ensure accurate coordination of field days/plant science events and demonstrations.

The Farm Technician will assist in the implementation of Plant Science research projects. The incumbent will assist in the development of field plot preparation, pest control, data collection and harvesting field research plots. Offering Logistical and research-based information and support to limited- resource farmers.

Minimum Qualifications

Demonstrated ability in the safe operation of farm-based machinery and equipment and has basic understanding of plant science research.

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing is essential.

A bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agronomy or closely related field or a combination of education and practical experience.

A valid driver's license.

A valid Virginia pesticide applicator certification and/or have the ability to obtain such certification within a year.



**Successful completion of the duties requires some weekend/holiday/breaks working days.

Additional Considerations

A master's degree is preferred.

A valid Virginia pesticide applicator certification is preferred.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

Virginia State University is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all persons and applicants, without regard to age, color, disability, gender, national origin, political affiliation, genetic information, race, religion, sexual orientation, sex (including pregnancy) or veteran status. VSU encourages and invites minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply.

AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.

HOW TO APPLY: Virginia State University only accepts applications for this position through the on-line state Recruitment Management System (PageUp). Faxed, e-mailed, and mailed applications and/or attachments will not be accepted. The application must be detailed and fully completed. All employment and periods of unemployment (if applicable) must be listed within the application; either on an attached resume, or manually listed in the “Relevant Work History” section. Each application is reviewed for documentation that shows the applicant meets the minimum and preferred qualifications stated in the job announcement. The decision to interview an applicant is based on the information provided on the application, therefore, it is essential to fully complete each section of the application and provide descriptive information. Submitting an incomplete state application, or a state application lacking in detail, may result in your non-selection. This website will provide a confirmation of receipt when the application is submitted for consideration.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Interested persons must attach a cover letter and a current resume/c.v to the online application. Official transcripts will be required at the time of employment.

The selected candidate will be subject to an extensive and complete background check, which may include fingerprinting. The candidate may be required to complete a Statement of Economic Interest as a condition of employment, if applicable.

Commonwealth’s Alternative Hiring Process: In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their Certificate of Disability (COD) provided by a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor within the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS). Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS to get their Certificate of Disability. If you need to get a Certificate of Disability, use this link: https://www.vadars.org/drs/cpid/PWContact.aspx , or call DARS at 800-552-5019.

Contact Information

Name: Dominique M. Fisher

Phone: 804-524-5075

Email: dfisher@vsu.edu

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.