Research Technician, Soil Science

Primary Purpose: The technician will support the Chair in Soil Biogeochemical Processes in the Department of Soil Science at the University of Saskatchewan. The role combines field and laboratory research, with an emphasis on maintaining instrumented field sites and conducting analytical laboratory work. Nature of Work: Laboratory work includes operating analytical equipment such as gas chromatographs and analyzing soil samples.

The technician will keep field experiments running by installing, maintaining, repairing, and calibrating instrumentation, including gas analyzers, dataloggers, and micrometeorological towers. The technician will also coordinate student field work, train and guide graduate and summer students, and keep research spaces clean and safe. The position requires travel to field sites, occasional early-morning and late-evening work, work in harsh outdoor conditions (heat, cold, insects), and the ability to lift 50 lbs.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities: Monitor, operate, and maintain micrometeorological field instrumentation (environmental sensors, dataloggers, solar power systems) Operate gas chromatographers Install field instrumentation; build, repair, and calibrate specialized equipment Collect soil, plant, and manual gas samples Coordinate students for field work Collect, organize, and document data Education: Post-secondary diploma or degree in environmental science, engineering, or a related field. Experience in operating electronic instrumentation and conducting research-based field and/or laboratory work. Licenses: Must possess a valid license for driving in Saskatchewan, and posses or be willing to obtain the following certificates: WHMIS Certificate General Laboratory Safety U of S Safety Training for new Employees Working on Heights training Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and ability to relate effectively with other staff and students; effective written and oral English communication skills; ability to prioritize and organize time effectively; proven capacity to work independently and in a team setting; detail-oriented and able to perform repetitive tasks accurately and consistently; strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills for troubleshooting field and laboratory instruments.

Technical and knowledge requirements are advanced computing skills (e.g., Excel, R, Python, GIS), knowledge field and laboratory procedures, and knowledge of Saskatchewan agricultural practices. Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Shannon Brown at 306-966-2703.