About Olds College of Agriculture and Technology
Founded in 1913, Olds College has been offering quality hands-on education for over a century. Through our regular programming, continued education, and online and blended programming, we provide accessible educational opportunities within Alberta and beyond. We work closely with industry to advance and adapt our programming to ensure our graduates have the skills to succeed.
At Olds College we value our people and are committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment. Olds College provides quality education in an environment that is designed to promote academic excellence and student success. There are many reasons to join Olds College and build a meaningful career in a community that is innovative, diverse and welcoming. Everything we do at Olds College is done to advance all aspects of the agriculture and agri-food community. All of our programs and actions align to our social purpose, “Transforming agriculture for a better world”. Our mission is to ensure Alberta's agriculture community has the talent, knowledge, and thought leadership to lead globally.
The Opportunity:
Olds College Centre for Innovation (OCCI) oversees all applied research initiatives at Olds College. In alignment with the college' Growing 2025 strategic plan, OCCI and Olds College Smart Farm (OCSF) have expanded the college capacity to deliver applied research in crop production, livestock production, environmental stewardship, and smart agriculture and technology integration. The research program is a $7 million to $8 million annual portfolio involving funding from numerous federal and provincial grants, fee for service contracts, donations, and other revenue sources.
OCCI Crops Applied Research program is in need of an experienced senior research associate to support indoor, potted applied research trials, and outdoor, small or strip plot applied research field trials. Areas of interest will include: soil and crop fertility; soil health; regional variety trials; integrated weed management; specialty/non-traditional field crops; and testing of crop enhancement products, such as bio-stimulants.
This position reports to the Manager, Crops and Environment Applied Research.
NOTE: This is a full-time, term position through to November 30, 2025, with possibility of extension
Key Job Functions:
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Actively participate in pre-seeding project activities, like soil sampling, tilling, herbicide application, and so on, through to post-harvest field management project activities, like tilling, herbicide application, seeding of winter crops, etc.
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Assist on a grant-funded research project exploring the agronomic performance and viability of multiple field pea cultivars
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Actively contribute to research project planning (development) through to execution, completion, reporting and information dissemination
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Collect, develop and manage research information, including information gathered by conducting literature reviews, as well as during the implementation of research projects, in which case ensure strict adherence to scientific protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) in compliance with data quality objectives, among other research-related quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) considerations
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Complete and implement applicable safety hazard assessments, occupational health and safety policies, etc., in the conduct of all research activities
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Work effectively with research project teams (teamwork) comprised of OCCI research scientists, research associates, research technicians, research assistants (e.g., summer students), other seasonal staff, and possibly external partners or clients
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Actively promote a respectful workplace, and ensure compliance with the college’ code of conduct and health and safety policies to facilitate optimal work conditions for all participants
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Attend and present research outcomes at scientific and technical conferences, workshops, seminars, and other forums
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Engage with industry representatives such as crop and forage commodity groups, and agricultural applied research and extension agencies via participation in outreach and demonstration activities
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Makes decisions with the college’ interests in mind, while demonstrating inclusivity, openness, transparency, civility, and respect
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Maintaining strict confidentiality of sensitive information is a fundamental requirement for this position, ensuring the utmost discretion and integrity in handling all data and communications
Education/Experience/Skills/Knowledge Required:
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Minimum of an M.Sc. in Crop Science, Plant Science or a related agricultural discipline from an accredited, post-secondary institution
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Demonstrated, five years’ worth of research experience with respect to scientific, indoor and outdoor applied research projects
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Demonstrated, five years’ worth of field experience working with small or strip plot equipment, such as seeding, spraying, maintenance and harvesting
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Must possess a valid pesticide applicator license, or be eligible to obtain one within three months of commencing employment
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Designation as a Professional Agrologist (PAg) or Agrologist In-Training (AIT), is desirable
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Class 5 Alberta driver’s license
Conditions of Employment:
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Required to do heavy lifting, repetitive physical work, as well as conduct fieldwork in adverse weather conditions.
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Work outside of regular operating hours may be required during peak season or when the college is closed on sanctioned holidays
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Current criminal reference check void of any criminal offenses
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Must demonstrate professional ethics and respect in the workplace in the conduct of all duties associated with this position, including engagement with college staff, students, and external partners and collaborators
The statements contained in this job description reflect general details as necessary to describe the key job functions of this position, the level of knowledge and skill typically required and the scope of responsibility. It is not an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Other duties may be assigned at the discretion of OCCI management.
Please apply by November 13, 2024
We thank all individuals for their interest in this position. We appreciate the time involved for candidates in the application process. At this time, please note only those selected for interviews will be contacted.
Olds College is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous Peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and persons of any sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
