Agricultural Water Quality Program (AWQP) Researcher (RAII)

Colorado State University

Fort Collins, CO, US

Description of Work Unit

The Department of Soil and Crop Sciences is focused on education, research, and outreach to solve the world’s most pressing food production issues and crucial matters about Earth, its ecosystems, and their services. Our faculty and staff apply research-based solutions to benefit Colorado and the world. We offer academic programs to prepare students to address national and global crop production, sustainability, and environmental quality challenges such as waste management, water quality, and reclamation of drastically disturbed lands. There are numerous opportunities for students to be involved in cutting edge research related to global food production and ecosystem function and protection.

Position Summary

This position will provide research coordination, support, and supervision in the Agricultural Water Quality Program (AWQP) in the Department of Soil and Crop Science at Colorado State University. The AWQP operates throughout the State of Colorado carrying out outreach, applied research, and demonstration work related to Agricultural Best Management Practices (BMPs) and water quality. Water quality issues related to both surface and groundwater throughout Colorado are the focus of the program. All work is done in close collaboration with the agricultural community, the Colorado Department of Agriculture and the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment. The AWQP focuses on applied research and outreach, providing farmers with timely tools and information to address the State’s water quality and agronomic challenges.

Required Job Qualifications
  • Research Associate I or B.S./B.A. degree + 3 years professional experience or Master’s degree. Degree(s) in natural resources, agricultural sciences, soil science, engineering, watershed sciences, agricultural economics, or another closely related discipline from an accredited institution.
  • Experience working in agricultural research or working knowledge of production agriculture
  • Adept at problem-solving, task prioritization, and time management.
  • Excellent written, communication, organizational and interpersonal skills.
  • Outstanding attention to detail and experience meeting deadlines
  • Proficient knowledge and experience in the application of word processing, spreadsheets, and data management software.
  • Ability to meet the environmental and physical demands of this position which includes seasonal needs to work on agricultural research fields outside in inclement weather; duties such as some heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs. on an infrequent basis), manual dexterity, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching and handling.
  • Valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license or access to a qualified driver by start date.
Preferred Job Qualifications
  • Demonstrated ability and expertise for developing relationships and engaging in activities in agricultural settings with diverse clientele, communities and stakeholders.
  • Completed Master’s Degree in natural resources, agricultural sciences, engineering, watershed sciences, agricultural economics, or another closely related discipline
  • Experience with research instrumentation calibration, installation and maintenance.
  • Proficiency with data management and statistical analysis.
  • Familiarity with ArcGIS or other geospatial analyses.
  • Experience or willingness and ability to learn statistical analysis and data management protocols .
  • Demonstrated history of working with agricultural stakeholders .
  • Familiarity with soil and/or water sampling/analysis/chemistry.
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace, ability to consider and respect diverse perspectives, and ability to instill trust and build consensus among diverse groups.
Diversity Statement

Reflecting departmental and institutional values, candidates are expected to have the ability to advance the Department’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Essential Duties

 

Job Duty CategoryResearch
Duty/Responsibility

Under the leadership of RAIV, Design and plan research experimental sites; independently install and maintain instrumentation; conduct soil and plant sample collection and processing; collect data, enter data into applicable software, and provide statistical analysis in order to meet research grant objectives, timelines and deliverables. Write and edit peer reviewed journal articles, and technical bulletins.

Percentage Of Time65
Job Duty CategoryOutreach and Extension
Duty/Responsibility

Work with a diverse set of public and private sector partners; maintain existing relationships and seek new collaborative opportunities.
Help organize and present at field days, workshops, conferences and other relevant events.
Write and edit outreach publications.

Percentage Of Time15
Job Duty CategorySupervision
Duty/Responsibility

Provide guidance to student hourly employees as needed.

Percentage Of Time20
Special Instructions to Applicants

For full consideration, all materials must be received by May 10, 2021. Applicants should upload the following: (1) A cover letter addressing your qualifications; (2) A resume or CV; (3) unofficial transcripts (4) Contact information for three professional references. References will not be contacted without prior notification of candidates. For additional information about Colorado State University, consult the university’s website at www.colostate.edu.

Conditions of EmploymentPre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires), Valid Driver’s License
Search Contact[email protected]
EEO Statement

Colorado State University is committed to providing an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based on race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or pregnancy and will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. Colorado State University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and Colorado State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. The Office of Equal Opportunity is located in 101 Student Services.

 

The Acting Title IX Coordinator is the Vice President for Equity, Equal Opportunity and Title IX, 123 Student Services Building, Fort Collins, CO. 80523-0160, (970) 491-1715, [email protected].
 

The Section 504 and ADA Coordinator is the Vice President for Equity, Equal Opportunity and Title IX, 101 Student Services Building, Fort Collins, CO 80523-0160, (970) 491-5836.

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

References Requested

 

Minimum Requested3
Maximum Requested3

POSITION TYPE

ORGANIZATION TYPE

EXPERIENCE-LEVEL

DEGREE REQUIRED

IHE Delft Institute for Water Education - MSc in Water and Sustainable Development