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Does agriculture, construction, mining and extraterrestrial machine applications excite you? The Soil Machine Dynamics Laboratory (SMDL) has a great opportunity for a Agriculture Assistant to coordinate the testing of samples, monitor and maintain lab equipment, and troubleshoot issues in the lab. The Agriculture Assistant will be working in the lab and in the field.

SMDL is located at Iowa State’s Agricultural Engineering and Agronomy Research Farm near Boone, Iowa and includes soil mechanics laboratory testing and three major soil bins with state-of-the art measurement and control specifically mobility soil bin, Ground Engaging Tools (GETs), soil bin test and a circular wear testing soil bin. With the SMDL research capabilities, the lab supports engineering research programs for agriculture, construction, mining and extraterrestrial machine applications, and education programs for undergraduate and graduate students learning. Beyond research on machine applications, the SMDL supports fundamental applied soil dynamics research with various granular materials. This is a one year fixed term position from date of hire with opportunity for renewal.

Watch a video of the SMDL and see it in action

Example of Duties

• Performs a variety of tests requiring a high degree of proficiency

• Collects, analyzes, and processes laboratory samples or research data

• Troubleshoots problems and recommends solutions

• Determines testing methods for non-standardized test

• Cleans, sanitizes, maintains, and operates lab equipment

• Assists scientists with research and record findings in the field or lab

• Maintains sample tracking

• Document and supervise safety and environmental activities in accordance with ISU environmental, safety and health policies and guidelines

Level Guidelines
• Career-level position demonstrating proficiency and knowledge of related competencies
• Works under direct to general supervision and may receive guidance on more complex assignments
• Follows established procedures for work assignments, and completes assignments which are semi-routine and may be atypical in nature
• Applies thorough knowledge to respond to inquiries and requests
• Able to resolve most problems and issues and respond to requests without escalation
• Provides guidance to students
• May provide supervision to one to two other staff or lead a small work team

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Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State University is committed to fostering a workplace of belonging, where diversity is celebrated and equity is a core value. Our Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
• This job may also be eligible for flexible work schedules and flexible workplace options that may include flexible working hours and a hybrid working environment.

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