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Agricultural Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NCAT

Research Associate

Greensboro, NC

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University's College of Agriculture and ... Through our Agricultural Research Program and Cooperative Extension Program, we can research issues ...

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How much do agricultural research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for agricultural research in the United States is $22.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is agricultural research?

Agricultural research is the scientific study and investigation of various aspects of agriculture, including crop production, animal husbandry, soil health, pest control, and agricultural technology. The goal is to improve farming methods, increase food production, enhance sustainability, and solve problems related to food security and environmental impact. Researchers may work in laboratories, greenhouses, or in the field, developing new techniques and solutions to support farmers and the agriculture industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in agricultural research?

To thrive in Agricultural Research, you need a strong background in biology, agronomy, or related sciences, often supported by a relevant degree or advanced qualification. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and technologies like GIS or molecular biology tools is typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for designing experiments and sharing findings. These abilities ensure accurate research outcomes, innovation, and the practical application of scientific discoveries to improve agricultural productivity.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in agricultural research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in agricultural research often encounter challenges such as unpredictable field conditions, limited research funding, and the need to stay current with rapidly advancing technologies. Navigating these can require flexibility in research design, strong problem-solving skills, and effective collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, including agronomists, technicians, and data analysts. Staying engaged with professional networks and ongoing training can also help researchers adapt and find innovative solutions to emerging agricultural issues.

What is the difference between Agricultural Research vs Agricultural Extension Officer?

AspectAgricultural ResearchAgricultural Extension Officer
Primary FocusDeveloping new farming techniques, crop varieties, and scientific studiesDisseminating agricultural knowledge and practices to farmers
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, agricultural institutesFarmer fields, community centers, government offices
Required CredentialsDegree in Agriculture, Plant Science, or related fields; often advanced degreesDegree in Agriculture, Extension, or related fields; often requires communication skills
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, government agenciesGovernment departments, NGOs, agricultural agencies

While Agricultural Research focuses on developing new agricultural methods and innovations through scientific studies, Agricultural Extension Officers work directly with farmers to implement these practices and improve productivity. Both roles are essential in the agriculture industry but serve different functions in the innovation and application process.

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Agricultural Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Agricultural Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 88% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 76% In-person, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,599 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Research Associate *Kalispell, MT*

Montana State University

Bozeman, MT • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

Montana State University rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

415th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Announcement Number
STAFF - VA - 27065
For questions regarding this position, please contact:
Marilyn Dalen
marilyn.dalen@montana.edu
406-994-4218
Classification Title
Research Professional
Working Title
Research Associate *Kalispell, MT*
Brief Position Overview
Montana State University's Northwestern Agricultural Research Center (NWARC) is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to support its field crop physiology research program. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to applied agricultural research that directly benefits farmers and agribusinesses in Northwest Montana. The successful candidate will be involved in hands-on research across a variety of agronomic crops, helping to advance studies related to irrigation, nutrient management, and crop performance. The position combines fieldwork, data collection, and equipment operation with responsibilities in data management and seasonal staff supervision. Ideal candidates will have a strong foundation in agronomy or a related field, enjoy working outdoors, and be eager to collaborate with researchers, producers, and stakeholders to support MSU's mission of agricultural innovation and outreach.
Position Number
4C0439
Department
AES NWARC
Division
College of Agriculture/MAES
Appointment Type
Professional
Contract Term
Fiscal Year
Semester
If other, specify From date
If other, specify End date
FLSA
Exempt
Union Affiliation
Exempt from Collective Bargaining
FTE
1.0
Benefits Eligible
Eligible
Salary
Commensurate with experience, education, and qualifications
Contract Type
LOA
If other, please specify
Recruitment Type
Open
Position Details
General Statement
The Northwestern Agricultural Research Center (NWARC) is located near Kalispell, MT, and is an integral part of Montana State University. NWARC is one of the seven Research Centers comprising the Department of Research Centers. Scientists at NWARC conduct agricultural field and laboratory researches, interact with farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, and MSU Cooperative Extension Service.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Support the field crop physiology research program.
  • Assist in the design, establishment, and maintenance of field research studies.
  • Apply treatments such as irrigation and nutrient applications.
  • Apply pesticides, insecticides, and herbicides of the field research studies.
  • Collect, analyze, and summarize research data.
  • Operate and maintain field and laboratory equipment.
  • Supervise part-time and seasonal labor as needed.
  • Collaborate effectively with a variety of stakeholders including researchers, producers, and agricultural partners.
  • Work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Travel within the state may be required occasionally.

Required Qualifications - Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
  1. B.S. in agronomy, biology or a closely related discipline.
  2. Field research experience in agronomic crops research, such as maintaining and harvesting research plots.
  3. Experience in measuring, collecting, and recording of response variables and the associated data management procedures required for statistical analysis.
  4. Experience in supervising part-time and temporary help.
  5. Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications - Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
  1. M.S. in agronomy, crop science, biology, or closely related field.
  2. Research experience relating to irrigation, nutrient management, and cultivar evaluation/plant breeding.
  3. Knowledge of the crops and production practices associated with Northwest Montana.
  4. Experience with data management and interpretation tools such as SAS, ARM or other statistical software packages.
  5. Experience in the operation and maintenance of field and laboratory equipment.
  6. Experience with pesticides, insecticides, and herbicide application.
  7. Experience in public engagement and/or data presentation during farmer meetings or field day demonstration.

The Successful Candidate Will
  • Work independently and as part of a team environment.
  • Highly effective interpersonal skills including the ability to work cooperatively with research faculty, producers and co-workers.
  • Be meticulous and precise in carrying out work assignments.
  • Follow instructions, maintain effective attention to detail, meeting deadlines, and prioritizing competing demands.

Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
  • Must be willing to work outside of traditional business hours when research protocols dictate.
  • Must be able to drive a pick-up truck while towing trailers or farm implements.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license, an acceptable driving record, and meet all State of Montana requirements to operate State/University vehicles. (If successful candidate possesses a valid out-of-state driver's license, must obtain a valid Montana driver's license within 60 days of hire.

This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Physical Demands
  • Must be able to enter, exit and operate numerous types of farm machinery.
  • Must be able to move 60 pounds.
  • Must be able to safely use seed cleaning and seed processing machinery.
  • Must be able traverse and remain stationary in rough terrain for long periods of time.
  • Must be able to work in extreme weather conditions.
  • Must be able to work with and around dust, pollen-bearing plants and pesticides.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
This position has supervisory duties?
Yes
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies
1
Desired Start Date
Upon completion of a successful search
Position End Date (if temporary)
Open Date
Close Date
Applications will be:
Screening of applications will begin on September 14, 2026; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
Special Instructions
This position is not eligible for new sponsorship.
EEO Statement
Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.
In compliance with the Montana Veteran's Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran's preference, please complete the veteran's preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.

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