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Lifting objects up to 50 lbs, bending, squatting, sitting for long periods of time. Regular job-related travel and ability to drive a 4X4 vehicle.

Monday- Friday 8:00AM- 5:00PM (40 hours/wk) Possible Weekend and night work as needed.

The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Department of Plant & Soil Sciences is seeking a Scientist I to join our team.

This is an exciting full-time, field-based position located in western Kentucky. The selected candidate will work under the guidance of a Kentucky Geological Survey hydrogeologist, supporting both field and office operations related to water and environmental monitoring.

Be a part of hands-on research environment where impactful, real-world discoveries are made. This unique role offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to meaningful agricultural advancements while working alongside leading researchers in the field.

Key responsibilities include collecting runoff quantity and precipitation data, gathering surface water quality samples, and operating and maintaining specialized field equipment. The role also involves the use of four-wheel-drive vehicles, preparing weekly reports, and conducting physically active fieldwork, including hiking and lifting up to 50 pounds.

We are looking for a candidate who brings a combination of relevant education and/or hands-on experience, along with strong problem-solving skills and a self-motivated, team-oriented mindset. A valid driver’s license is required. The successful candidate must also have or be willing and able to obtain a small unmanned aerial system (drone) pilot license.

Training for specific job duties will be provided on site. Occasional overnight travel will be required, with expenses covered by the project.
Why Join Us

At the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, you’ll find a community that values collaboration, growth, and recognition. Benefits of joining our team include:

Exceptional benefits package. A formal mentoring program to support your professional development Access to a staff development fund for continued learning and skill building Dedicated staff recognition programs that celebrate your contributions A shared commitment to making the University of Kentucky the University of, for, and with Kentucky.

Join us in shaping the future of teaching and learning—where innovation meets impact.

For additional information about the Plant & Soil Sciences department please click here. To find out more about Martin-Gatton CAFE and how the college supports the mission of this being the University of, for, and with Kentucky, Click Here.

GPS; MS Excel, MS Word or similar software; ESRI GIS; Mac OS; PC OS.

MS with two or more years or BS degree with four or more years field experience (farm background, geology or forestry field course, internship or outdoor field education experience, etc.) preferred.

Valid Driver’s License preferred.

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.