Research Spec - Precision Ag with Dr. Sun

Position Information

Description & Details: Assist Dr. Xin (Rex) Suns precision agriculture research programs and the Peltier Institutes interdisciplinary initiatives. Work Schedule: This position will be 60% office, 20% lab work, 20% field work in the summer season. Mainly M-F, some travel may be required at times.

Hiring Range: $40,000 - $53,000 Pay is based on several factors, including budget, labor market, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and/or certification and other business considerations. Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Agricultural Engineering, Precision Agriculture, Agronomy, Computer Science, Data Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Valid drivers license in the US

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with UAV operation, robotic platforms, or advanced sensing systems.
• Familiarity with agricultural production systems in the Northern Great Plains.
• Experience in GIS, image processing, or basic programming (Python, R, or Matlab).
• Experience supporting academic events, outreach, or student programs.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

Core Competencies:

• Knowledge of agricultural fieldwork, research support, or technical project work.
• Technical proficiency with research equipment and data workflows.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication skills and ability to coordinate with students, faculty, and partners.
• Ability to work in field, lab, and office environments with attention to safety and task execution.
• Reliability, initiative, and professionalism in supporting research and institute activities.

Applicant Materials Required:

• CV
• NDSU OFFERS EXCELLENT BENEFITS!

Benefits:

• Health Insurance coverage with 100% of the premium paid for by NDSU for Single or Family Plan.
• Option of a PPO/Basic Plan or High Deductible Health Plan with Health Savings Account.
• Benefits begin the first of the month following date of hire.
• Wellness benefits are included for healthy lifestyle participation.
• Superb Retirement Plan.
• Employer Contributions range from 7.5% - 12.26% based on position.
• Basic Term Life Insurance.
• Tuition Waivers for Employee (three classes per calendar year).
• Tuition Waivers for Spouse/Partner & Dependents (eligible for 50% waiver).
• Paid Leave - including Annual leave, Sick Leave and 10 paid Holidays.
• Employee Assistance Program.

Optional benefits include:

• Supplemental Life, Dental, Vision, Long-term care insurance, Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care) and Supplemental Retirement Plans.

More Detailed Information Here: Benefits | Human Resources | NDSU

About Us: North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student-focused, land-grant, research university. We educate leaders who solve national and global challenges by providing affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment. NDSU is in the highest Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, R1, granted to the top research institutions in the country. NDSU has offices across the state of North Dakota, and the main campus is in Fargo, on the Minnesota border. Along with Moorhead, Minnesota, Fargo forms one of the largest metropolitan centers between Minneapolis and Seattle. The community is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live. NDSU is committed to fostering a community where differences are recognized as strengths. Rooted in our land-grant mission, we work together to meet the needs of North Dakota and its communities through education, research and outreach.

Equal Opportunity Statement: NDSU does not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of age, color, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, participation in lawful off-campus activity, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, spousal relationship to current employee, or veteran status, as applicable. Direct inquiries to: Vice Provost, Title IX/ADA Coordinator, Old Main 201, NDSU Main Campus, Fargo, ND, 58108, 701-231-7708, ndsu.eoaa@ndsu.edu.

No Smoking Notice: As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.

Veteran's Preference Notice: This position is subject to North Dakota Veteran's Preference requirements.

Reasonable Accommodation Information: North Dakota State University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, please contact Human Resources at 701-231-8961 or ndsu.hr@ndsu.edu.