JOB SUMMARY
Under general supervision, functions as a lead agricultural technician
and performs moderately complex biological or agricultural tests,
examinations and processes. Performs manual activities in the care of
animals and crops.
PRIMARY DUTIES
1. Leads and trains subordinate personnel in the performance of
laboratory and field activities in accordance with experimental
protocol; assists in determining work priorities, schedules, and
work assignments.
2. Provides research support including recommending research
protocols, performing examinations and processes following general
instructions, monitoring the activity of crops and animals and
documenting research findings and results.
3. Acts as a liaison with the general public; prepares and presents
agricultural demonstrations; responds to inquiries and requests
which do not require specialized scientific knowledge or
expertise.
4. Prepares and presents instructional presentations in the field and
laboratory.
5. Prepares reports and analyses and maintains automated and/or
manual recordkeeping systems pertaining to experimentation,
research and animal care.
6. Operates farm machinery including tractors, plows, mowers,
combines, balers, and hand tools.
7. Operates laboratory equipment such as spectrometers, nitrogen
determination apparatus, centrifuges, and PH meters.
8. Performs routine maintenance/repairs on agricultural facilities,
equipment and tools to ensure operational readiness, safety, and
cleanliness.
9. Performs the manual duties of an Agricultural Technician.
Note: The intent of this list of primary duties is to provide a
representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities of
this job. Incumbents perform other related duties assigned. Specific
duties and responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION: High School Diploma or GED
EXPERIENCE: Three years on agricultural research utilizing scientific
methods.
OTHER: Valid Maryland Noncommercial Class C or equivalent
driver's license.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES
Comprehensive knowledge of farming practices and equipment usage.
Thorough knowledge of and ability to use scientific methods and
related laboratory equipment in agricultural research. Thorough
knowledge of mathematics including algebra, area, volume, weights,
measures, and proportions and ability to perform mathematical
calculations. Thorough knowledge and skill in the use of farm
equipment. Ability to provide guidance and training to agricultural
technicians and workers; to use computers; to communicate effectively
both orally and in writing; to lift and transport agricultural
supplies, tools, and equipment, to climb, and to perform extensive
standing and walking; to work in extreme weather conditions; to wear
and work in personal protective equipment.
OTHER: Except for qualifications established by law, additional
related experience and formal education in which one has gained the
knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the
work of the job class may be substituted for the education or
experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 college
credits being equivalent to one year of experience.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or Maryland Noncommercial
Class B or equivalent driver's license may be required. If required
to obtain a Commercial Driver's License, employees will be subjected
to drug and alcohol education and testing as required under Federal
Highway Administration and the State of Maryland regulations.
Certification by the Maryland Department of Agriculture as a pesticide
applicator may be required. Candidates selected for employment may be
subject to medical inquiries and/or medical examinations to determine
ability to perform the job.