#Research Technician Field and Lab Operations, Soil Science

**Primary Purpose:**The Data‑Driven Innovations with Geospatial Soil Science (DIGSS) research program is seeking a full‑time Research Technician to support field research and laboratory operations. The DIGSS team focuses on understanding soil properties and soil–landscape processes in marginal agricultural areas and wetland environments across the Prairies. Ongoing projects are examining how management practices and environmental factors influence soil variability, greenhouse gas emissions, and long‑term soil carbon storage.

**Nature of Work:**The successful candidate will support field sampling, laboratory workflows, and the training of undergraduate and graduate researchers to generate high‑quality data. Work occurs in both field and laboratory environments and involves physical activity, including lifting up to 25 kg. Training will be provided for all laboratory and field procedures, safety protocols, and equipment operation. The technician will report directly to Dr. Chizen and will work closely with members of the DIGSS research team. Travel to field sites and occasional overtime, including evenings and weekends, will be required at peak periods, particularly before seeding (April/May) and after harvest (September/October).

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate with the DIGSS research team to ensure efficient scheduling of laboratory activities, sample processing, and field operations
• Support day‑to‑day laboratory operations, including soil sample intake and organization, maintaining the laboratory workspace, ordering supplies, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols
• Assist with field work to collect soil samples
• Maintain detailed records of laboratory procedures, observations, and data
• Support Dr. Chizen in training undergraduate and graduate students in laboratory methods, field sampling techniques, equipment use, and data collection protocols

Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree in soil science, environmental science, or a related field; OR Bachelor’s or Diploma degree in soil science, environmental science, or a related field with previous field work and/or laboratory experience
• Experience with soil science sample processing and laboratory analyses
• Experience conducting field work in an agricultural or environmental context.

**Licenses and Certifications:**Candidates must hold a valid class 5 driver’s license. Candidates should have or be willing to obtain WHMIS, First Aid, and CPR training.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong organizational and time‑management skills, with the ability to coordinate multiple tasks and field activities
• Effective written and verbal communication skills in English
• Ability to work independently and in team settings with students and researchers
• Competency in data handling, including accurate documentation and management of field and laboratory datasets
• Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high data quality standards
• Problem‑solving skills and adaptability to dynamic project needs and field conditions
• Proficiency with data analysis tools (e.g., R, Python) are considered an asset
• Proficiency with GIS (e.g., QGIS) is considered an asset

**Department:**Soil Science
**Status:**Term 2 years with the possibility of extension

**Employment Group:**Research Positions - Non-union
**Full Time Equivalent (FTE):**1.0

**Salary:**The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $23.53 - 32.94 per hour. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Salary Family (if applicable): **Salary Phase/Band:**Salary Band 5

**Posted Date:**3/12/2026

**Closing Date:**3/25/2026 at 6:00 pm CST
**Number of Openings:**1
**Work Location:**On Campus

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve:EDI Framework for Action**.** We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by thedeybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policyand the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.
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