Research Technician I – Seed Production

About the role

The Research Technician I provides entry‑level, semi‑skilled technical support for seed production activities at Texas A&M AgriLife Research in Vernon, Texas. The role involves hands‑on work in the field, greenhouse and nursery environments, ensuring high‑quality seed harvest, processing, and documentation.

Key responsibilities

• Assist with harvesting, transporting, storing, conditioning, and bagging seed.
• Travel to production fields as needed, often outside regular hours.
• Support evaluation of production fields and supervise rogueing to eliminate genetic or quality contaminants.
• Estimate, procure, and maintain inventory of seeds, bags, tags, chemicals, and other supplies.
• Perform routine repair, maintenance, and modification of machinery and equipment.
• Maintain accurate records such as vehicle mileage, seed inventory, and equipment logs.
• Train part‑time employees on seed production, equipment operation, safety, and maintenance.
• Carry out any additional duties required to support seed production operations.

Required profile

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least two years of related experience in farm work or field equipment.
• Valid Texas driver’s license.
• Ability to follow verbal instructions and work well in a team.

Required skills

• Familiarity with farm equipment operation and maintenance.
• Certified Pesticide Applicator License (preferred).

What we offer

• Hourly compensation starting at $16.00, based on qualifications.
• Opportunities to work in a leading agricultural research environment.
• Hands‑on experience with seed production and field research.