Overview

Job Description: Field Research Technician I / Field Research Technician II Company: W.O. Zangger & Son, Inc. d/b/a Zangger Popcorn Hybrids Position Type: Full-Time Location: Ord, Nebraska ABOUT THE ROLES Zangger Popcorn Hybrids is hiring for two full-time positions within our Research & Development team: Field Research Technician I An entry-level or developing research technician position for individuals interested in building a career in agricultural research, plant breeding, seed production, or crop science.Field Research Technician II An experienced research technician position for individuals capable of completing assigned work independently, helping coordinate daily research activities, and providing guidance to seasonal or part-time employees.Placement at the Technician I or Technician II level will be based on education, relevant experience, demonstrated skills, and overall qualifications. Our research and development program is built in the field, not behind a desk. This is a boots-on-the-ground agricultural research position where you'll spend the majority of your time working outdoors in popcornfields, research nurseries, and production environments. If you enjoy being outside, working with your hands, solving practical problems, and seeing the direct results of your work throughout the growing season, you'll fit right in. Expect long days during planting, pollination, and harvest. Expect dirt on your boots, sweat on your brow, changing weather, and physically demanding work. While there is some laboratory work, recordkeeping, and computer data entry, the primary workplace is the field. Primary Responsibilities - Field Research Technician I & IIExecute field and research activities supporting popcorn breeding and seed production. Assist with field trials, research nurseries, planting, pollinations, field evaluations, data collection, and harvest. Process seed, prepare samples, conduct popping evaluations, and assist with laboratory testing as needed. Prepare and maintain research records, maps, labels, tags, samples, inventories, and related documentation. Perform accurate and repetitive seasonal research activities with consistency and attention to detail. Operate safely around agricultural equipment, research facilities, and field operations. Complete assigned work while communicating progress, issues, and resource needs. Follow established research protocols, safety procedures, quality standards, and departmental practices. Support a safe, organized, efficient, and collaborative Research & Development work environment. Perform other related duties necessary to support seasonal research and seed production activities.Additional Responsibilities - Field Research Technician II (only) Complete assigned research activities independently after receiving direction from the Research Team Lead. Help coordinate daily research activities and changing seasonal priorities. Provide practical guidance and work direction to seasonal and part-time employees. Serve as a trusted operational resource within the Research & Development department. Help identify field, workflow, equipment, staffing, or resource issues and communicate them promptly.QUALIFICATIONS Field Research Technician I Associate's degree, technical training, or relevant experience in Agronomy, Crop Science, Plant Science, Agriculture, Biology, or a related field preferred. Agricultural, farming, seed production, crop production, greenhouse, research plot, or field experience preferred, but not required. Strong work ethic and willingness to learn agricultural research methods and processes. Dependable schedule availability and consistent attendance. Ability to follow instructions, complete repetitive work accurately, and contribute effectively as part of a team. Demonstrated reliability, organization, attention to detail, and follow-through. Basic computer skills and willingness to learn research and data collection systems. Valid driver's license required.Field Res