Specialty Crops Assistant

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As part of Michigan State University Extension (MSUE),  the Agriculture and Agribusiness Institute (AABI), and the West Central Tree Fruit and Vegetable Extension programs, this specialty crop focused research assistant position will collect, analyze, and communicate information about Michigan's specialty crop systems related to asparagus, other vegetables, and tree fruit crops in West Michigan and will work cooperatively with public and private agencies, organizations, and individuals to inform and guide decisions that impact horticultural practices, water and nutrient management, and integrated pest management (IPM).
 
The mission of the West Central Tree Fruit and Vegetable Extension programs is to guide the commercial specialty crops growers and industry and community partners in West Central Michigan by providing the highest quality scientific expertise and information. Our vision is to be the authoritative source of information on horticultural practices, water and nutrient management, and IPM that is widely used to manage specialty crops for current and future generations. Weekly pest and disease monitoring and timely reporting of critical information for commercial tree fruit industry and research experiments are essential components of the West Central MSU Extension programs. In addition, relevant research and experiments to address ongoing and emerging challenges are critical to the success of the commercial tree fruit and vegetable industries.  This ongoing research is used by specialty crops growers, local and state agencies and private organizations to guide land management and production decisions.
 
As the MSU Extension Specialty Crops Technician, you will assist with programming and research projects supporting the commercial vegetable and tree fruit industries. The position will be based in Hart, MI and will cover the West Central Michigan region. Projects mainly fall under the disciplines of horticulture, entomology, and plant pathology.

 

Minimum Qualifications (see full description for complete list of requirements)

• Knowledge equivalent to that which would normally be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in horticulture, entomology, and plant pathology or closely related field, earned by date of hire.
• One to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements.
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Application Process: