Research Associate – Field Variety Trials

Location: Taber, Alberta

Ag-Quest, is looking for a full-time, permanent Research Associate to join our team in the Taber area to conduct Variety field trials.

Ag-Quest has been the premiere provider of Western Canadian contract research services for the agricultural industry since 1983. We have five locations across Western Canada, and we are driven to provide quality research for our Clients. Please learn more about us and our services at

If you are someone who is passionate about agricultural research and want to make a difference in agriculture, this may be the opportunity for you

Qualifications:

• M.Sc. or B.Sc. or Diploma in Ag or BSc with Ag background is preferred

• Must have a Valid Class 5 Driver's license or higher class.

• Must have Canadian Citizenship or Permanent Residency status

• Experience with field research trials, crop production practices, and operation of field research equipment (tractors, seeders, sprayers, combines, etc.) is an asset

• Previous experience in agriculture and/or agricultural field trials is a strong asset

Skills

• Excellent attention to detail when interpreting and following protocols and procedures

• Ask questions to clarify and understand protocols, procedures, situations

• Strong organizational skills and time management skills

• Problem solving and critical thinking

• Good written and verbal communication with project coordinators, clients, coworkers, and support staff.

• Able to work both independently and in a team environment

• Manage temporary and seasonal employees to complete plot maintenance and data collection according to protocols.

• Able and willing to learn new skills

• Familiarity with field trial design and efficient layout of variety trials in various field settings

• Ability to set up, calibrate and operate field research equipment

• Ability to interact and collaborate with co-workers and clients in a professional manner

• Contribute to creating and maintaining a safe and respectful work environment

Research Associate Job Description:

As a Researcher, you will be responsible for conducting variety trials on multiple locally adapted crops, including cereals, pulses, and oilseeds. You will be responsible for all aspects of conducting these agricultural field trials as per the protocol for the duration of the research season. This includes, but is not limited to, locating suitable trial sites for crops and pests; operating plot equipment; treating seed; planting and maintaining trials; test item and maintenance pesticide applications; assessments; collecting samples and/or harvesting trials; data collection; organization and entry; data analysis and summary. The field season involves critical times for the success of the research program, so extended work hours may be required at these times. Other duties include maintaining records as per protocol and SOP requirements and submitting trial reports to clients.

You will be required to work outdoors, operate small plot equipment, and drive trucks and trailers. Participation in annual SOP review and ongoing training will also be required.

You will be expected to work independently and as a member of the Taber team, cooperating with other research personnel to ensure all phases of the work at the station are completed successfully. You will also be responsible for supervising and organizing tasks for Summer Research Technicians during the summer months. The Ag-Quest team, including Project Coordinator, Station Manager, and Senior Research Associates in the group are available for mentoring and guidance as you learn this new role. Some travel may be required to trial sites and to other Ag-Quest Stations as needed. Occasional travel to client or industry meetings or training courses, largely during the winter, may be required.

As an Ag-Quest Researcher you will be primarily responsible for conducting variety trials. Other trials and duties may be assigned. Attention to detail, organization and patience are critical attributes for this position.

Opportunities at Ag-Quest:

• Networking and conducting trials for diverse clients and international agriculture companies

• Working at a Canadian family-owned company

• Being a part of a small, dedicated team

• Developing diverse skills with multiple crops/equipment/pests/products

• Working with co-workers across the prairie provinces

• Opportunities for advancement and provincial movement across site locations

• Education and training opportunities both internally and externally

• Fast paced, changing, and challenging work

• Flexible winter workloads and vacation

Start date: January 1, 2026

Salary: Dependent on relevant experience and education. Equitable Life health benefits program and matching RRSP available.

Please outline your work experience, research qualifications and practical skills in the resume or cover letter and be prepared to provide references. Only those under consideration will be contacted. This position will remain open until it is filled.

Please apply to Ag-Quest by emailing

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Dental care
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision care

Work Location: In person