Agricultural Research Technician - Jobs in Kentville, NS

Job Description

Perennia's mission is to support growth, transformation and economic development in Nova Scotia's agriculture, seafood, and food and beverage sectors. Our highly skilled and collaborative team focuses on superior customer service, proactive solutions and innovative approaches to meet client needs. To assist in this effort, we are seeking a full-time Agricultural Research Technician based out of our Truro office but will be working in a hybrid work situation (home-office-field) and responsible for working on projects province-wide, so travel will be expected.This position will work closely with our production specialists in the Agricultural Services Team to help manage multiple on-farm research projects that are designed to increase efficiency and demonstrate innovative practices on farm. A significant focus of this position will be assisting with the installation and maintenance of on-farm weather stations and sensors, along with related technologies. This position would also include assisting specialists with outreach activities such as hosting field days, developing production fact sheets, etc.Responsibilities will include:Assist to support broad adoption of agricultural technologiesInstall and maintain in-field monitoring sensors and equipmentAnswering grower inquiries on the tech support line and provide troubleshooting advice to growersOversee planting, spraying, maintaining, evaluating, and harvesting of agriculture research trialsOperate large scale and plot size field equipmentComplete general equipment repair and maintenance. This includes sourcing, purchasing, and acquisition of supplies, parts, and servicesAccurately collect and manage research dataAssist with outreach activities, including tours at key demonstration sitesPerform literature searches and assist with written documentsAssist in the supervision and training of student employeesIn order to excel at this position, the successful applicant will have:Minimum Diploma or Degree in Agronomy, Agribusiness, Agricultural Mechanization, or equivalent experience2-4 years of experience in an agriculture-related role, work with fruit, vegetable, and field crops desirableTechnical and operational competency with agricultural equipmentAble to be part of an interdisciplinary team and take initiative, as required, to ensure the highest quality of work is always doneDemonstrated ability to balance and prioritize multiple projects and tasksStrong organization and time management skillsStrong written and verbal communication skillsMust have excellent attention to detailExperience supervising field staff preferredCapable of lifting 20 kgAdaptable to various work environments, including field, laboratory, and officeA basic understanding of agronomic practicesValid driver's licence and access to a vehicleA pesticide applicators license (considered an asset but not mandatory)This role will be an excellent opportunity for a professional with a strong independent, positive, and collaborative work ethic, who wants to apply their skills on a wide variety of products in a client-focused environment. Perennia offers a competitive compensation package based on the candidate's skill and experience. This includes base salary, benefits, employer matching RRSP plan, personal days and three weeks' vacation to start.To apply for this exciting new position at Perennia, please email a resume and cover letter (combined in one PDF or Word document) noting compensation expectations, to Janice MacMullin, HR Manager, at hr@perennia.ca by noon on Monday, June 28, 2021.Only those granted interviews will be contacted. For more information about Perennia visit their website at www.perennia.caPerennia is an equal opportunity employer