The Research Technician role is responsible for executing high-quality plots by performing tasks including; planting, spraying, harvesting and equipment maintenance. The Planting, Harvest & Spraying Technician is responsible for executing high-quality planting, spraying, harvesting, and equipment maintenance activities across experimental research plots. Every task performed in this role directly impacts the accuracy, integrity, and scientific value of research trials.

The technician ensures that all field operations are conducted with precision, proper timing, strict adherence to protocols, and full regulatory and safety compliance. This includes accurate planting, reliable and well-calibrated spraying applications, high-quality harvests, and disciplined equipment readiness to minimize downtime and protect data quality.

Through technical expertise, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to consistency and safety, the technician contributes to delivering high-quality data, supporting operational efficiency, and ensuring the overall success of research programs across all sites.

Responsibilities

Planting Operations

• Operate and calibrate research planters (e.g., Almaco, Kincaid,) to ensure accurate planting rate, depth, spacing, and plot layout.
• Prepare fields for planting, including equipment setup, field marking, GPS verification, and row alignment checks.
• Document planting dates, equipment settings, weather conditions, and any deviations from protocol.

Spraying & Application Activities

• Perform precise and on-time spraying of experimental plots using research sprayers, handheld units, or drone sprayers.
• Calibrate nozzles, pressure, travel speed, and boom height to achieve accurate dosage, droplet size, and uniform coverage.
• Follow GLP/non-GLP protocols, product label requirements, and environmental regulations.
• Prevent cross-contamination between treatments through rigorous cleaning and flushing procedures.
• Monitor wind, temperature, and humidity to avoid drift or application errors that compromise data quality.

Harvest Operations

• Operate and maintain research combines and plot harvesters (Wintersteiger, Hege, Almaco, etc.).
• Calibrate and verify equipment to ensure accurate yield measurements, moisture readings, and sample integrity.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues quickly to reduce downtime during critical harvest windows.
• Maintain detailed harvest logs and ensure sample traceability.

Equipment Maintenance & Readiness

• Conduct routine maintenance, cleaning, lubrication, and minor repairs on planters, sprayers, tractors, UTVs, and combines.
• Support preventive maintenance planning to extend the life of assets and reduce unplanned breakdowns.
• Work with mechanics and vendors for major repairs or part replacements.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized shop, yard, and storage environment.

Field & Operational Support

• Assist in trial layout, staking, plot marking, and installation of field infrastructure as needed.
• Support field measurements, stand counts, sample collection, and other trial-related tasks throughout the season.
• Follow internal SOPs and client protocols to ensure traceability, uniformity, and scientific rigor.
• Safely operate tractors, UTVs, trailers, and other field equipment.

Safety, Compliance & Quality

• Adhere to all safety requirements, including PPE usage, chemical handling procedures, and equipment operation guidelines.
• Maintain accurate pesticide application records in compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Ensure compliance with GLP (when applicable), environmental guidelines, and internal quality standards.
• Participate in safety meetings, equipment training, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Experience

• Bachelor's and/or Master's degree in an appropriate field preferred, or a minimum of 2 years' experience in research and use of research equipment. Knowledge of plant protection, plant pathology, weed science, pesticide residue, agronomy, and seed /traits is preferred.
• Machinery, equipment, repairs and maintenance of farm equipment.
• CDL, or willing to obtain at own expense.
• Sprayer applicator license, or willing to obtain.
• Proficient computer skills with most current spreadsheet, database and word processing applications needed.
• Able to read, write, and communicate in English fluently, or with necessary assistance, ONLY while performing the job duties which require this ability.
• Mission and Values Driven - Clearly understand the mission and values of SynTech Research to ensure all work performance aligns to the mission and values. All employees are expected to promote a "CAN DO" attitude and demonstrate a willingness to work in a professional and collaborative manner. Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement.
• Integrity, Ethics, and Collaboration - Treat people with respect and individuality; do what you say; be fair and equitable in all interactions; be a good steward of company resources; and work effectively with others.
• Safety - Put safety first by anticipating and performing actions necessary to avoid hazardous work-related conditions which could result in injury, harm, or loss.
• Communication - Give and welcome feedback; exhibit objectivity and openness to others' views; contribute to holding each other accountable and build a positive team spirit. Write clearly and informatively; edit work to high standards of written presentation.
• Adaptability, Flexibility, and Critical Thinking - Effectively manage competing demands and able to change course when new information becomes available. Identify and resolve problems in a timely manner; gather and analyze information skillfully; and develop alternative solutions.
• Attention to Detail and Timely Follow-up - Demonstrate thoroughness and accuracy in work activities through concern for all areas involved. Plan and prioritize work activities, use time efficiently to meet deadlines and provide timely follow-up for all issues.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to read computer screens, e-mail and mail, talk on the phone.
• Specific vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, depth perceptions, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Able to work in a highly regulated, high pace environment.
• Capable of wearing a respirator.
• Must be able to walk, stand 50% to 80% of the time, squat, bend, kneel, climb, push, pull, use hands; reach with hands and arms overhead; speak and hear effectively in team and/or one-on-one conversations.
• Must be able to climb ladders, lift/move greater than or equal to fifty (50) to sixty (60) pounds with proper ergonomics and use of assistance as needed (e.g., carts, pallet jack, tractors, etc...)

Work Environment:

• Interaction with employees and visitors.
• All day (more than 8 hours) exposure to heat, sun, dust, and all-weather conditions associated with outdoor, field research work.

Additional Duties:

Additional duties and responsibilities may be added to this Job Description at any time. The Job Description does not state or imply that these are the only activities to be performed by the employee holding this position. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related responsibilities as requested by their supervisor.

Benefits:

401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
 

Location:

Marshall, MO 65340 (Required)
 

Willingness to travel:

75% (Required)

Please submit your application by clicking APPLY TO THIS POSITION below.