Job Details

Research Farm Specialist 2

The LSU AgCenter focuses on research, extension and teaching to make advancements that will benefit generations. The LSU AgCenter is one of eight campuses of the LSU System. With offices in every parish and research stations across the state, the LSU AgCenter is committed to serving the citizens of Louisiana. That pledge includes our dedication to agriculture and the vital work of providing innovation and support for the food and fiber sector while improving agriculture's valuable contributions to the state's economy.

Our educational efforts span nutrition and health, food safety, backyard gardening, disaster preparedness, storm recovery, youth development, managing insects and natural threats, economic development, resource conservation and so much more. The LSU AgCenter provides individuals, families, businesses, schools, industries and local governments with valuable information aimed at improving economic conditions, general wellness and quality of life. Our faculty members across the state are actively engaged in research that creates solutions for the many aspects of agriculture while serving all residents of Louisiana.

The Dean Lee Research Station is hiring a Research Farm Specialist 2.

Minimum Qualifications

Two years of experience in research farming or in farm management; OR Three years of experience in farming; OR Twelve semester hours in an agricultural field.

Job Specification

The official job specifications for this role, as defined by the State Civil Service, can be found here.

Job Duties and Other Information

Job Duties:

As a Research Farm Specialist 2, you will have the following job duties:

• Cares and feeds livestock. Assists in animal health by observing, evaluating, and reporting conditions in a research environment. Administering medication as prescribed and checking progress. Assist in breeding animals, delivering young, collecting semen and performing other specialized duties related to the care of animals. (25%)
• Cares for and maintains field crops. Assists in monitoring the health of field crops by observing, evaluating, and reporting conditions in a research environment. Assists in all operations associated with cop production including tillage, planting, maintaining, and harvesting row crops. (25%)
• Calibrate, adjust, operate, and maintain specialized equipment used in livestock or field crop research. Operates, maintains, and makes random adjustments to complex agricultural and/or research equipment. (20%)
• Calculate proportions and application rates of chemicals. Calibrate, adjust operate, and maintain agricultural pesticide applicators. Assist research professionals with complex applications of experimental chemicals and treatments. (15%)
• Discuss and assist professionals with research projects to devise methods and provide technical livestock and field crop production expertise. Assist research professionals in laying out plots, labeling treatments for animals or plants, and collection of data. (10%)
• Other duties as assigned. (5%)

Position-Specific Details:

• Appointment Type: This position does not participate in a Career Progression Group.
• Work Schedule: 40 hours per week, M-F, with the potential for some weekend work during harvest season.
• Compensation: The salary offered will be determined based on qualifications and experience.
• Location: Dean Lee Research Station, Alexandria, La.
• This position is not eligible for remote employment.

The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Louisiana is a State As a Model Employer (SAME) that supports the recruitment, hiring, and retention of individuals with disabilities.

How To Apply:

• No Civil Service test score is required in order to be considered for this vacancy.
• Apply online at
• Information to support your eligibility for the position must be included in the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education). Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections. Applications may be rejected if incomplete.

Contact Information:

For further information about this vacancy contact: Rebecca Smelley at rsmelley@agcenter.lsu.edu.