2027 Summer Student Research Technician

Term: April 26 – August 27, 2027 (adjustable based on school schedules)


Hours: Monday – Friday, 40 hours/week (some overtime may be required)


Compensation: $19–$23 per hour 

Farming Smarter is seeking enthusiastic, hardworking students to join our team for Summer of 2027. This is an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on experience in applied agricultural research while working alongside industry professionals and researchers. As a member of our team, you will develop practical skills in crop research, crop & pest identification, irrigation management, soil health and assessment, data collection and analysis, precision agriculture technologies, sprayer applications, GIS mapping, communication, leadership, and more.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Research Trial Support

·      Assist with the planning, establishment, monitoring, and maintenance of field-scale and small-plot research trials.

·      Support scientific research projects focused on crops, agronomy, soil health, and agricultural innovation.

Field Equipment Operation

·      Receive training in the safe operation, loading/unloading, and transportation of research equipment.

·      Operate side-by-sides, tractors, plot seeders, sprayers, mowers, and other research equipment and follow training and certification requirements.

Plot Establishment & Maintenance

·      Prepare and weigh seed, fertilizer, and other trial materials.

·      Seed and establish research plots according to protocols.

·      Flag, stake, and label plots to ensure accurate identification and data collection.

·      Maintain research sites through mowing, trimming, weeding, irrigation management, and other field activities.

Data Collection and Analysis

·      Collect accurate data on crop growth, yield, weed pressure, pest activity, soil conditions, and other research measurements.

·      Assist with data entry, quality assurance, and preliminary analysis.

Equipment Calibration & Care

·      Calibrate, clean, and maintain equipment to ensure safe and effective operation.

·      Assist with routine maintenance and organization of research facilities and equipment.

Additional Duties

·      Support staff with special projects, demonstrations, field events, and other duties as required.

Skills and Qualifications:

·      Reliable, punctual, and comfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.

·      Detail-oriented and able to follow research protocols and instructions accurately.

·      Organized and capable of managing multiple tasks in a face-paced environment.

·      Strong communicators with excellent interpersonal skills.

·      Positive, motivated, and eager to learn.

·      Able to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.

Requirements:

·      Valid Class 5 driver’s license with a clean driver’s abstract

·      Enrolment in, or completion of, a post-secondary program in Agriculture, Environmental Science, Biological Sciences, or a related field is considered an asset.

Assets:

·      Previous farm, agricultural, or research experience.

·      Experience with small-plot field trials.

·      Knowledge of crops, weeds, pests, or agronomy.

·      Experience operating agricultural equipment.

Why Join Farming Smarter?

Gain Valuable Experience

Work directly on applied agricultural research projects that impact producers across Western Canada. Develop skills that are highly valued by employers in agriculture, agronomy, research, and agri-tech.

Learn from Industry Leaders

Receive mentorship and training from experiences researchers, agronomists, and industry professionals.

Build Your Network

Connect with farmers, researchers, innovators, industry partners, and fellow students passionate about advancing agriculture.

Enjoy a Supportive Team Environment

Join a collaborative workplace that values learning, curiosity, innovation, and personal growth.

Competitive Compensation

Competitive hourly wages based on education and experience.

About Farming Smarter:

Farming Smarter exists to drive agriculture innovation at the farm level. We support a community of innovators through independent agronomic testing, applied research, scientific knowledge, and meaningful industry connections. We are a trusted source for the regional adaptation of profitable and resilient crops, cropping systems, and management practices. Our culture is practical, farmer-focused, and grounded in real-world results. We encourage curiosity, creativity, and continuous learning, recognizing that innovation requires testing new ideas, learning from setbacks, and adapting to change. As a flexible and responsive organization, we're committed to helping farmers remain competitive and successful in an increasingly complex agricultural landscape.

For more information about our organization, visit our website at www.farmingsmarter.com.

Please visit our Jobs page to see more job opportunities.

Please visit our careers page to see more job opportunities.