Research Assistant Jobs at Utah State University with Visa Sponsorship
Research Assistant roles at Utah State University span a wide range of departments, from agricultural sciences to engineering, often tied to faculty-led grants and lab projects. USU has an established process for sponsoring international researchers, making it a practical target if you're on OPT, a J-1, or planning a longer-term work visa pathway.
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Support programs that strengthen agriculture, horticulture, natural resources, and forestry across Utah. This internship provides hands-on experience assisting with research-based education and outreach, connecting university knowledge with real-world applications for producers, land managers, and communities. Interns will gain exposure to fieldwork, program delivery, and problem-solving in diverse agricultural and natural resource settings.
You’ll join a team that values practical learning, stewardship, and strong community relationships. Work environments may include farms, gardens, natural areas, and community events, offering a dynamic and engaging experience. Flexible scheduling may be available depending on seasonal program needs. If you’re interested in agriculture, sustainability, or natural resource management, this internship offers a valuable pathway to explore those careers.
Responsibilities:
Program & Event Support: Facilitate Master Gardener practical learning activities and outcomes
Research & Evaluation: Collect data on plant phenology and quality for ornamental plants that are part of USU's collaborative efforts to introduce drought tolerant plants to the green industry
Education & Content Development: Produce research products (fact sheets or posters)
Create short-form educational video content
Professional Development & Other Duties: Maintain Botanical Center gardens aligned with learning outdoors
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Be an undergraduate student
- Have an interest in the Extension program
- Be dependable
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Completion of 12 credits in horticulture related science, including any of the following but not limited to environmental, physical, and natural sciences
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:
Along with the online application, please attach:
- Resume to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV”
- Answer the following questions within the application:
+ Do you have any prior knowledge of cooperative extension programs, 4-H, or the mission of land grant institutions?
+ Are you interested in presenting research?
+ Are you interested in gardening and plant science?
+ Do you consider yourself an independent worker?
Advertised Salary: 16.00 per Hour
ADA:
This position requires moderate physical activity. Employees must have sufficient strength to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position including moderate lifting (up to 50 pounds), walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, and squatting. This position requires nearly continuous standing, repetitive hand motions, and reaching overhead. Employees may be exposed to unusual elements including extreme temperatures, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
UNIVERSITY HIGHLIGHTS:
Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact.
USU enrolls over 29,800 students, both online and in person at locations throughout the state. Utah State’s 30 locations include a main campus in Logan, Utah, residential campuses in Price and Blanding, and six additional statewide campuses, along with education centers serving every county. USU educates students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries. For over 100 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns, serving every county in the state.
Competing at the NCAA Division I level, USU is a proud member of the Mountain West Conference and will join the Pac-12 Conference beginning in the 2026-2027 season. The Aggies’ long-standing tradition of athletic and academic excellence is exemplified by recent Mountain West regular-season and tournament championships in women’s volleyball, three consecutive Mountain West tournament titles in women’s soccer conference championships, and a first-ever conference championship for gymnastics, reflecting USU's commitment to perseverance and achievement.
Utah State is dedicated to fostering a community where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported and where diversity of thought and culture are cultivated. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who will champion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service. We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be successful. Forbes recognized our commitment to employees when they named Utah State the best employer in Utah in 2023. Learn more about USU.
The university provides a Dual Career Assistance Program to support careers for partners who are also seeking employment. Additionally, USU is committed to providing access and a reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability, contact the university’s ADA Coordinator in the Office of Human Resources at (435) 797-0122 or hr@usu.edu.
- updated 12/2025
NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION:
In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law.
Utah State University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination including harassment in employment including in hiring, promotion, transfer, or termination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy or any other federal, state, or local law.
Utah State University does not discriminate in its housing offerings and will treat all persons fairly and equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, familial status, disability, national origin, source of income, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Additionally, the University endeavors to provide reasonable accommodations when necessary and to ensure equal access to qualified persons with disabilities.
In all circumstances, Utah State University follows state and federal laws related to sex-segregated spaces.
The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USU’s non-discrimination policies: Matthew Pinner
Executive Director
Civil Rights & Title IX Office
matthew.pinner@usu.edu
435-797-1266 | Old Main Rm. 401D
1475 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322
Cody Carmichael
Title IX Coordinator
cody.carmichael@usu.edu
435-797-1266 | Old Main Rm. 402D
1475 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322
For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visit crtix.usu.edu or contact:
U.S. Department of Education
Denver Regional Office
303-844-5695 | OCR.Denver@ed.gov
U.S. Department of Education
Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
800-421-3481 | OCR@ed.gov
- updated 10/2025
Overview:
Support programs that strengthen agriculture, horticulture, natural resources, and forestry across Utah. This internship provides hands-on experience assisting with research-based education and outreach, connecting university knowledge with real-world applications for producers, land managers, and communities. Interns will gain exposure to fieldwork, program delivery, and problem-solving in diverse agricultural and natural resource settings.
You’ll join a team that values practical learning, stewardship, and strong community relationships. Work environments may include farms, gardens, natural areas, and community events, offering a dynamic and engaging experience. Flexible scheduling may be available depending on seasonal program needs. If you’re interested in agriculture, sustainability, or natural resource management, this internship offers a valuable pathway to explore those careers.
Responsibilities:
Program & Event Support: Facilitate Master Gardener practical learning activities and outcomes
Research & Evaluation: Collect data on plant phenology and quality for ornamental plants that are part of USU's collaborative efforts to introduce drought tolerant plants to the green industry
Education & Content Development: Produce research products (fact sheets or posters)
Create short-form educational video content
Professional Development & Other Duties: Maintain Botanical Center gardens aligned with learning outdoors
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Be an undergraduate student
- Have an interest in the Extension program
- Be dependable
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Completion of 12 credits in horticulture related science, including any of the following but not limited to environmental, physical, and natural sciences
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:
Along with the online application, please attach:
- Resume to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV”
- Answer the following questions within the application:
+ Do you have any prior knowledge of cooperative extension programs, 4-H, or the mission of land grant institutions?
+ Are you interested in presenting research?
+ Are you interested in gardening and plant science?
+ Do you consider yourself an independent worker?
Advertised Salary: 16.00 per Hour
ADA:
This position requires moderate physical activity. Employees must have sufficient strength to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position including moderate lifting (up to 50 pounds), walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, and squatting. This position requires nearly continuous standing, repetitive hand motions, and reaching overhead. Employees may be exposed to unusual elements including extreme temperatures, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
UNIVERSITY HIGHLIGHTS:
Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact.
USU enrolls over 29,800 students, both online and in person at locations throughout the state. Utah State’s 30 locations include a main campus in Logan, Utah, residential campuses in Price and Blanding, and six additional statewide campuses, along with education centers serving every county. USU educates students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries. For over 100 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns, serving every county in the state.
Competing at the NCAA Division I level, USU is a proud member of the Mountain West Conference and will join the Pac-12 Conference beginning in the 2026-2027 season. The Aggies’ long-standing tradition of athletic and academic excellence is exemplified by recent Mountain West regular-season and tournament championships in women’s volleyball, three consecutive Mountain West tournament titles in women’s soccer conference championships, and a first-ever conference championship for gymnastics, reflecting USU's commitment to perseverance and achievement.
Utah State is dedicated to fostering a community where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported and where diversity of thought and culture are cultivated. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who will champion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service. We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be successful. Forbes recognized our commitment to employees when they named Utah State the best employer in Utah in 2023. Learn more about USU.
The university provides a Dual Career Assistance Program to support careers for partners who are also seeking employment. Additionally, USU is committed to providing access and a reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability, contact the university’s ADA Coordinator in the Office of Human Resources at (435) 797-0122 or hr@usu.edu.
- updated 12/2025
NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION:
In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law.
Utah State University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination including harassment in employment including in hiring, promotion, transfer, or termination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy or any other federal, state, or local law.
Utah State University does not discriminate in its housing offerings and will treat all persons fairly and equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, familial status, disability, national origin, source of income, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Additionally, the University endeavors to provide reasonable accommodations when necessary and to ensure equal access to qualified persons with disabilities.
In all circumstances, Utah State University follows state and federal laws related to sex-segregated spaces.
The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USU’s non-discrimination policies: Matthew Pinner
Executive Director
Civil Rights & Title IX Office
matthew.pinner@usu.edu
435-797-1266 | Old Main Rm. 401D
1475 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322
Cody Carmichael
Title IX Coordinator
cody.carmichael@usu.edu
435-797-1266 | Old Main Rm. 402D
1475 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322
For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visit crtix.usu.edu or contact:
U.S. Department of Education
Denver Regional Office
303-844-5695 | OCR.Denver@ed.gov
U.S. Department of Education
Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
800-421-3481 | OCR@ed.gov
- updated 10/2025
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Research Assistant Jobs at Utah State University Jobs
Contact the principal investigator directly
At USU, Research Assistant positions are often filled through faculty hiring rather than central HR postings. Emailing the PI whose grant-funded project aligns with your background can surface opportunities before they're listed publicly.
Time your OPT application around thesis milestones
If you're completing a graduate degree and targeting a post-degree Research Assistant role, file your OPT application 90 days before your program end date. A gap between graduation and employment authorization can complicate a smooth transition into a sponsored position.
Clarify visa type early in the interview
USU sponsors multiple visa categories for research roles. Ask HR during your first formal interview which visa pathway applies to your specific position, since J-1 and H-1B carry different employer obligations and affect your long-term Green Card options differently.
Use Migrate Mate to identify open Research Assistant roles
Browsing active Research Assistant postings at USU filtered by visa sponsorship saves time over general job boards. Use Migrate Mate to surface current openings where international sponsorship is already part of the hiring plan.
Prepare documentation for PERM labor certification early
If your Research Assistant role is intended as an EB-2 or EB-3 pathway, USU's HR and sponsored programs office will need to run a PERM recruitment process through DOL. Gather transcripts, publications, and experience letters before that process begins, not after.
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Find Research Assistant at Utah State University JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Does Utah State University sponsor H-1B visas for Research Assistants?
Yes, Utah State University sponsors H-1B visas for Research Assistant roles where the position qualifies as a specialty occupation, meaning it requires at least a bachelor's degree in a specific field directly related to the work. USU's Office of Research and sponsored programs offices coordinate the H-1B petition process with USCIS. The sponsorship is employer-initiated, so your hiring department and HR must agree to file on your behalf before any petition is submitted.
How do I apply for Research Assistant jobs at Utah State University?
Research Assistant openings at Utah State University are posted through USU's official careers portal, but many positions are also filled through direct faculty contact, particularly for lab or grant-funded roles. Reaching out to faculty whose research aligns with your background, alongside submitting a formal application, improves your chances. Migrate Mate also lists visa-sponsoring Research Assistant openings at USU, filtered for international applicants, so you can identify active postings in one place.
Which visa types does Utah State University commonly use for Research Assistant roles?
USU sponsors several visa categories for Research Assistants depending on your situation. F-1 OPT and CPT are common for students currently enrolled or recently graduated from U.S. institutions. J-1 exchange visitor status is frequently used for international researchers coming directly from abroad. H-1B is the standard long-term work visa for degree-holding researchers, and EB-2 or EB-3 immigrant visa pathways are available for Research Assistants moving toward permanent residence through PERM labor certification.
What qualifications does Utah State University expect for Research Assistant positions?
Requirements vary by department and research focus, but most Research Assistant roles at USU expect at minimum a bachelor's degree in a field directly relevant to the lab's work, with graduate-level positions typically requiring enrollment in or completion of a master's or doctoral program. Strong quantitative skills, lab technique experience, and familiarity with the PI's subject area carry significant weight. Published work or conference presentations strengthen your profile for competitive grant-funded positions.
How do I navigate the visa sponsorship timeline when accepting a Research Assistant offer at Utah State University?
If you're transitioning from F-1 OPT to H-1B, USU must file your H-1B petition with USCIS before your OPT expires, and cap-subject H-1B petitions are only accepted in April for an October 1 start date. Universities like USU are cap-exempt employers, meaning H-1B petitions can be filed year-round without waiting for the lottery, which significantly simplifies your timeline planning. Confirm cap-exempt status with USU HR early in the offer process.
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