Temporary Field Research Technician

Overview

The University of Georgia is seeking a Temporary Field Research Technician within the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Genetics. This is a temporary, hourly professional position based in Ithaca, New York, with a May 2026 to October 2026 schedule and anticipated start date of 05/15/2026. The position involves field research in a large common garden experiment and collaboration with undergraduate and graduate students.

• The technician will collect data in the field on transplanted seeds, including fitness components (germination success, survival, reproductive success, fecundity) and trait data (e.g., flowering time, plant size, leaf morphological characteristics).
• The technician will communicate with the PI and project leaders, sharing datasets and troubleshooting challenges that arise.
• The technician will prepare and maintain the field site for the common garden, including mowing, tilling, weeding, setting up fencing, establishing experimental treatments, and ensuring that all equipment is in working order.
• Other duties as assigned.

Percentage of Time: 75% for field data collection; 10% for coordination with PI/project leaders; 15% for site maintenance and other duties.

• Bachelor’s degree in ecology, evolutionary biology, botany, or a related field.
• Coursework in ecology, plant biology, genetics, or related fields.
• Experience with field research in ecology, evolution, and/or botany; ability to work outdoors in challenging conditions for long days; attention to detail and ability to perform repetitive tasks.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs; comfortable with manual labor, including tools, light carpentry, gardening/landscaping techniques; desire to train and mentor team members.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

The role requires being outdoors all day, sitting and standing for extended periods, collecting data, troubleshooting and fixing equipment, occasional heavy material lifting (up to 50 pounds), and driving as needed for job duties.

Location:
This position is based in Ithaca, New York, and is conducted at a field station in New York, outside Georgia. The entire position will be executed out of state during the growing season (May–October 2026).

Employment Details:

Employment Type

– Employee; FLSA – Non-Exempt; FTE – 1.00;
Advertised Salary – $20/hr;
Anticipated Start Date – 05/15/2026;
Posting Date – 12/10/2025;
Open Until Filled – Yes.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. People needing accommodations or assistance with accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb).

Background Investigation Policy:
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including criminal background checks, verification of credentials and employment history, reference checks, and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. A pre-employment drug test may be required for certain positions.

Contact Details:
For questions, please refer to the Recruitment Contact below.
Recruitment Contact Name:
Dr. Jill Anderson
Recruitment Contact Email: jta
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