Seasonal Research Technician

The Summer Field Technician with West-Central Forage Association (o/a) Farming Forward Association (from hereon be referred to as Farming Forward Association or FFA) is a self-starter who can manage their time effectively, as this role requires taking initiative and a sense of accountability. The individual in this role shall interact with community members, agricultural producers, experts, and peers and conduct themselves professionally while representing the organization. This position is for an ambitious and forward-thinking individual who wants to make an impact in the agricultural world at the ground level.

The Summer Field Technician will assist with conducting Agricultural applied research and extension. The position involves conducting experimental research, data collection, and disseminating information from research and demonstration programs as directed by the Manager. The projects provide knowledge and support to local producers in developing new farming practices that support regenerative and sustainable initiatives focusing on environmental stewardship. The incumbent will engage in information sharing of current research and special interest topics. There will be 50% field work, including sampling, maintenance of plots, observations, data collection, data analysis, and other necessary activities for project execution. The other 50% is extension and office work, including Social Media, mass emails, in-person learning events, webinars, and other events. The incumbent will plan and develop activities or new research ideas, develop project management plans, utilize scientific methods, work with others, network, and other necessary activities for extension and project development.

Key Competencies

Adaptability

• Rotate through different job roles to shadow and assist (communications, operations, project coordination, event planning)
• Trial new responsibilities outside one's comfort zone (public speaking, networking, project management, operating equipment, writing, interviewing, etc.)
• Initiate conversations and build trust with different types of people (industry, farmers, researchers, government)
• Manage changing priorities and plan activities efficiently

Collaboration

• Participate in weekly team brainstorming sessions, learn to iterate
• Engage in team-building training, workshops, and trade shows
• Work on collaborative projects using shared digital platforms such as Milanote, Canva, Google Suite, etc.

Communication

• Give presentations to members/participants
• Interact with public, participants, and members discussing our mission and work
• Conduct telephone outreach to members for project-related purposes
• Write reports and project updates
• Practice active listening during meetings and provide constructive feedback

Creativity and Innovation

• Complete an innovation exercise: List 30 farming-related topics and list ideas for doing them differently
• Connect with agricultural technology companies, create a list of what they do and project ideas
• Capture digital images and video to create educational content

Digital Skills

• Learn and use new software or digital tools and apply them to the agriculture industry and communications (podcasting, streaming, video editing, Excel)
• Create and maintain a professional online presence (e.g., LinkedIn profile)

Numeracy

• Analyze and interpret data sets using spreadsheets or statistical software
• Create budgets and financial projections for projects

Problem Solving

• Find efficiencies in operating and shop procedures and bring them forward to the manager
• Adopt a solution-based attitude for addressing problems encountered
• Create an inventory of equipment and define a monitoring method
• Improve Occupational Health and Safety by identifying hazards, implementing safer practices, communicating incidents and near misses, and participate in audits

Technical Skills

• Learn industry-specific tools and technologies
• Engage in project design and management, collection of data and observations, and apply scientific methods
• Improve awareness and commitment to defensive driving
• Create spreadsheets to document project data and observations efficiently

Reading and Writing

• Find and translate scientific articles to understandable format, create information sheets and publications for education
• Write blog posts and articles on agricultural topics

Leadership

• Lead one project from beginning to end
• Professionally represent Farming Forward Association in demonstrating our values and mission

Networking

• Meet new people while attending events and keep a log
• Garner member feedback

Details

Qualifications

• A strong interest/background in agriculture-formal education in agriculture would be a definite asset;
• Hold a valid driver's license with clean abstract;
• Strong communication, as well as quality and detail, orientated;
• Team player who can work independently with little or no supervision;
• Enjoy working outdoors, enthusiastic and a strong work ethic;
• Work flexible and extended hours as required
• Must be able to lift 20+ lbs, be on their feet, and work in the elements
• Have experience loading/hauling trailers, operating tractors, combines, ATVs, or any other machinery.

Hours and Compensation

• Summer Position - Full time
• Hourly: $21/hour, 37.5-hour work week with possibility of overtime
• April 27th, 2025 until August 28th, 2025
• Located in Sangudo, Alberta

Additional Information

** This position is funded by the Canada Summer Jobs Grant which requires specific inclusion criteria:

• Between the ages of 15 and 30 years old
• Have a valid Social Insurance Number
• Be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada, or a person who has been granted refugee status in Canada

Farming Forward Association is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from youth of all backgrounds, including Indigenous, Black and other racialized individuals, newcomers, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2+ youth, and those from rural or remote communities.

How to Apply

Please send your resume along with a cover letter explaining why you believe you are a good fit for this position.

Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal

Contract length: weeks

Pay: From $21.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Company events
• Flexible schedule
• On-site parking

Application question(s):

• What interests you about Agriculture?

Work Location: In person