Job Description

Position title:

Research Center Technician - This position is based at the Western Colorado Research Center, Rogers Mesa, located near Hotchkiss, CO

Position Summary:

The Western Colorado Research Center at Rogers Mesa (WCRC-RM) is dedicated to performing applied agricultural research pertinent to current issues faced by growers. This is achieved through field experimentation, community engagement, and emphasizing organic production and sustainability. During the employee’s time at WCRC-RM, they will be part of a team, learn the “why” of experimentation, and gain skills in crop production pertinent to research efforts. Participation in grower outreach and community engagement events is possible. The position will provide experience for those interested in pursuing professional careers in agriculture.

Full Consideration Date: 2/23/2026

Work Unit Description:

The Western Colorado Research Center (WCRC) consists of three research sites that collaborate to advance knowledge in the agricultural, biological, soil, and water-related sciences, while also promoting regional engagement in community development, food systems, and natural resources projects. The three sites are: Orchard Mesa (Grand Junction, CO), Rogers Mesa (Hotchkiss, CO), and Grand Valley (Fruita, CO).
WCRC-RM is a 100% CERTIFIED ORGANIC research center. WCRC-RM serves as a nationwide knowledge hub for organic agriculture in arid climates. Located in Hotchkiss, CO, the 80-acre property has 30 irrigated acres, a climate-controlled greenhouse, and equipment and infrastructure to support fruit tree orchards, grape vineyards, perennial pasture, and vegetable production. Their vision adheres to pertinent issues faced by growers with a focus on vegetables and perennial fruit crops, and 100% of the produce is donated to hunger relief organizations. Research topics include ecological pest and disease management, variety and rootstock trials, and regional adaptation of annual crops.

Essential Job Duties: In this position, the employee will help to satisfy the needs of research projects and farm tasks, specifically pertaining to a project on the testing and monitoring of table grapes on farms in the region. This will include data collection and input, research at off-site locations, and field work. The applicant must be willing to work outside for extended periods. Farm tasks may include weed removal, planting, pruning, fruit thinning, orchard netting, equipment maintenance, groundskeeping, and irrigation management. The applicant must have a current driver’s license and a personal means of transportation to/from WCRC-RM. Additionally, employee may be traveling to off-site locations for research tasks and use their personal vehicle, with mileage financially reimbursed. This position will require availability of 24 hrs/week, depending on project responsibilities, with occasional negotiated time on weekends. Requested availability will be three full days each week, with a weekly meeting with the supervisor to go over tasks and progress.

Conditions of Employment: Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

Supervision: This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Demonstrated interest in farming, gardening, and/or biological research
• Capable of utilizing computer applications for word processing and spreadsheet management
• Demonstrated communications skills (both verbal and written)
• Valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license or access to a licensed driver by start date
• Ability to meet the physical demands of this position, which include occasional lifting (up to 40 lbs.) and will require manual dexterity, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and handling tools.
• Ability to work in environmental conditions including exposure to weather and noise. Hazards include: working in proximity to moving, mechanical parts
• Ability to accommodate Flexible Work Arrangements (FWA) and to meet seasonal demands as well as varied work hours extending into night and/or weekend

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong desire to pursue agricultural research or work in organic agriculture
• Work experience in farming or gardening
• Is detail-oriented and self-motivated
• Willing to work as a team and advocate for themselves and others
• Ability to take on independent projects

Salary Range

Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

• Review our detailed benefits information here.

• Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.

• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.

• Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.