Job Summary

The department of Entomology is seeking a Lead Technician. In this role, you will provide logistical oversight and technical support for the research and extension efforts of the field crops entomology program at Purdue University led by Dr. Christian Krupke. You will be responsible for evaluating management practices across various locations in Indiana to represent a range of environmental conditions and design, manage and analyze applied research trials, including trials in organic grain production systems.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Prioritize and oversee field activities (e.g., design, plant, manage and harvest field plots)
• Apply chemical treatments in research plots, as needed and in accordance with established thresholds
• Develop field and lab books and lay out plots
• Determine best management practices (fertilize, planting, pest control, harvest) for success
• Troubleshoot field equipment and research plot situations
• Design research trials with appropriate statistical arrangements (randomized complete block, split-plot, split-block)
• Compile and organize data for current season interpretation and archival access
• Take notes and maintain experimental results on insect pest and beneficial populations in the field
• Field and lab processing of insect and plant samples, including lab prep for pesticide residue analyses
• Train students to take field notes, enter data, and to collect and process samples (soil, plant, insects)
• Guide students with proper methods of record-keeping, organization, and follow-through
• Coordinate lab equipment use by other departmental staff and train as needed
• Order supplies and maintain inventory of equipment, chemicals and supplies
• Train, implement, and enforce lab safety procedures for employees
• Maintain lab certification/documentation for safety such as MSDS sheets, WPS, training records

What We're Looking For:

• Bachelor's degree in Entomology, Weed Science, Agronomy, other closely related field
• 2 years of experience with field research and related activities
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered (Associate's + 4 years of experience; HS/GED + 6 years of experience)
• Knowledge of crop production as it relates to pest management
• Experience with farm machinery operation and maintenance
• Skills in oral and written communication;analytical computations; and computer/software such as Excel, PowerPoint, and Word
• Skills in designing experiments and analyzing results in SAS and ARM programs
• Ability to troubleshoot and perform minor repairs on analytical and field experimental equipment; interpret manuals, lab procedures and pesticide labels
• Ability to understand lab safety and standard operating procedures
• Obtain valid Indiana pesticide driver's license
• Ability to lift and carry 60 lbs

Nice to Have:

• Experience designing, implementing and maintaining field / farm research projects

What We'd Like You to Know:

• Purdue will not sponsor work authorization for this position.
• A background check is required for employment in this position
• This was formerly classified as an operational/technical position; an internal lateral transfer will retain same benefit standing.
• FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement: Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan
• Purdue University is an EEO/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply

What You'll Get in Return:

All university employees are afforded a generous benefits package, https://www.purdue.edu/hr/benewell/index.php, including medical/dental/vision insurance, paid time off, and retirement contributions. As part of Purdue University’s expansive employee benefit package, the University is proud to offer its employees the opportunity to grow, learn, and advance by offering a tuition remission opportunity at both Purdue University and Purdue Global.

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