The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment seeks a Laboratory Technician Senior. The Lab Technician will be responsible for both instructed and self-directed horticultural work maintaining fruit and vegetable research crops. The work requires outside activity throughout the year in all weather and includes physical labor such as bending and lifting, climbing ladders, walking, and standing for extended periods of time. This position requires the ability to drive or operate a truck, utility vehicles, tractor, mowing, and other power equipment. Additional requirements include operating and maintaining sprayers, along with mixing and applying chemical pesticides. Technology competency includes basic computer skills, operating data sampling and field labeling equipment.

The individual is expected to: work well with a team of horticulturists; follow research protocols as directed; fulfill crop production needs, e.g. planting, watering, fertilizing, weeding, pruning, training, canopy management, pest control, harvest, etc.; assist in the collection of field data and sample processing; maintain tools and equipment in working order; clean and organize orchard buildings and field office/laboratory; run software to create plant labels and perform data entry as directed; perform duties to maintain professional standards.