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Agriculture Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title Research Associate Agency Texas A&M University - Kingsville Department Kleberg Wildlife ... Install and maintain field research projects utilizing agricultural equipment * Assist with native ...

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University * Texas A&M Forest Service * Texas ... Research Associate will assist the institute with project planning, development, management, and ...

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The Texas A&M AgriLife Institute for Advancing Health Through Agriculture (IHA) is the world ... Research Associate position will play an active role in research, including working on data ...

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Agriculture Research Associate information

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How much do agriculture research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for agriculture research associate in the United States is $32.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $37.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an agriculture research associate?

Agriculture Research Associates are professionals who assist in conducting scientific studies related to crops, livestock, soil, and agricultural processes. They work alongside scientists and researchers to collect data, perform experiments, and analyze results to improve farming techniques and increase agricultural productivity. Their work often involves fieldwork, laboratory tasks, and data analysis to support innovations in sustainable agriculture. These roles are essential for advancing agricultural science and addressing challenges such as food security and environmental sustainability.

What are some typical challenges agriculture research associates face when conducting field experiments?

Agriculture Research Associates often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, pest infestations, and variability in soil quality, all of which can affect the consistency and reliability of research results. Coordinating with farm staff, managing equipment logistics, and maintaining accurate data records are also common hurdles. Overcoming these obstacles requires adaptability, strong organizational skills, and effective communication with both research teams and external partners.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an agriculture research associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Agriculture Research Associate, you need a solid background in agricultural science, research methodology, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software (such as SAS or R), and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate research outcomes, effective collaboration, and the advancement of agricultural innovation.

What is the difference between Agriculture Research Associate vs Soil Scientist?

AspectAgriculture Research AssociateSoil Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in agriculture, biology, or related fieldBachelor's or master's in soil science, geology, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, agricultural settingsLaboratories, field research, environmental agencies
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, agricultural companiesEnvironmental agencies, research institutions, consulting firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Agriculture Research Associates and Soil Scientists work in research environments related to agriculture and the environment. While they share similar educational backgrounds and work settings, Soil Scientists focus specifically on soil properties and health, whereas Agriculture Research Associates may work on broader agricultural research projects. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on their interests and credentials.

More about Agriculture Research Associate jobs

What cities are hiring for Agriculture Research Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Agriculture Research Associate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Agriculture Research jobs?

The most popular types of Agriculture Research jobs are:

What states have the most Agriculture Research Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Agriculture Research Associate jobs include:

Infographic showing various Agriculture Research Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,685 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Research Associate *Kalispell, MT*

Montana State University

Bozeman, MT • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 9 days ago


Montana State University rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

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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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