Agricultural Research Assistant-Rosholt Farm 2026 -Position Description click link.
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POSITION DESCRIPTION
Agricultural Research Assistant-Rosholt Farm
POSITION TITLE: Agricultural Research Assistant-Rosholt Farm
APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 16, 2026 4:00 p.m. or open until filled
POSITION LOCATION: Glenwood, MN duration 6 to 8-month position (April to November)
Candidates could be students looking for summer employment (May to August) or a recent graduate looking to gain experience prior to fulltime employment (April to November).
COMPENSATION: $16.00 to $20.00 per hour depending on qualifications and experience. Please note potential to hire up to two positions for the season.
BENEFITS: Potential Public Employee Retirement Association (PERA) eligible depending on employment terms. Seasonal staff shall receive vacation leave pro-rated based on hours worked. Seasonal Staff shall receive paid holidays during time employed.
POSITION DEFINITION:
The Agricultural Research Assistant will be responsible for collecting weekly water samples from vacuum lysimeters, conducting nitrate-nitrogen analysis, weekly soil moisture data readings, and documenting test results at the Rosholt Farm near Westport, Minnesota. The farm has multiple research plots. The Agricultural Research Assistant will also be responsible for assisting with tree planting, grass seeding’s, educational programming, and general assistance with all programs offered through the district. The preferred candidate will be a recent graduate looking to gain knowledge and experience in this field. This position has enabled others in the past to attain employment in this field with the knowledge, skills, and training gained. Students looking for a position to gain experience for the summer months are also encouraged to apply.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSILBILITIES:
Collect water samples weekly from each of the vacuum lysimeter stations. Perform water testing using spectrophotometer equipment and standard operating procedures, document and record test results for each lysimeter at the job site. Prepare and submit test samples to a certified laboratory for analysis according to Minnesota Department of Agriculture Quality Control requirements. Coordinate with the University of Minnesota researchers on their plots. Maintain and organize data. Assist where needed with research related management work including plot fertilization, crop scouting, plant sample collection, soil sampling, soil moisture monitoring, stalk sampling and harvest. Maintain, operate and secure equipment properly at the project site. Perform operations and maintenance tasks at Herman Rosholt Farm project site. Comply with health and safety procedures. May involve other duties as assigned to complete work related to Rosholt Farm Project activities including mowing and site maintenance. Carry out other duties as assigned including assisting with tree planting including installation of weed barrier fabric, grass seeding’s using no‐till drill and tractor, pulling gooseneck trailers with equipment, educational programming, and general assistance with all programs offered through the District. This position is meant to assist and will serve as a good opportunity for an individual to gain experience and begin a career in the natural resources, agricultural, or environmental field.
REQUIRED SKILLS:
Education: Course study in Hydrology, Agronomy, Ag Education, Environmental Sciences, Soil Science, or related field.
Qualities/Core Competencies:
Organized with a strong attention to detail and time management skills
Demonstrates a strong level of accountability
Good written and verbal communications skills
Exhibits professionalism
High degree of initiative, self-motivation, and ability to work independently
Farm, rural, or agribusiness background preferred, experience with machinery or soil and water monitoring equipment helpful
Must be able and willing to work outdoors in varied weather conditions; capable of lifting to 70 pounds
Possess a valid driver’s license
JOB LOCATION: Westport, Minnesota (Pope County) Rosholt Research Farm located between Glenwood and Sauk Centre on Highway 28.
POSITION TYPE: This is a temporary up to 6 to 8-month position that is grant-funded.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Submit a completed application and resume by the deadline to:
Holly Kovarik, District Manager
Pope SWCD
1680 Franklin Street North
Glenwood, MN 56334
holly.kovarik@mn.nacdnet.net
320-634-5327 phone