Education Jobs in Colorado with J-1 Sponsorship

Position Summary

The Crops Testing Program is seeking an agronomy research intern based out of our primary work location at Akron, CO to support program field research activities. Work will require 40 hours/week during the summer months with the possibility of overtime. Responsibilities may include: taking trial field-notes with a team member throughout the growing season (such as plant counts, plant height measurements, and other field notes), assist with plot maintenance (putting out stakes, hoeing weeds, etc), assist with lab data collection, data entry, and help with post-harvest grain sample analyses such as protein and seed size counts. In addition, the employee may assist with some basic farmer operations. The person will have an opportunity to assist with extension/outreach events such as wheat field days.

Full Consideration Date

For full consideration, applications must be received by April 12, 2026.

Brief Work Unit Description

The Crops Testing Program within the Agricultural Experiment Station conducts small plot variety trials on farms and research stations for various grain, oilseed, and forage crops. We also conduct a range of agronomy trials, try new crops with potential in the region, and test new plant or soil applied products coming onto the agriculture market for use by farmers. We strive to be a source of useful information and serve as the “Consumer Reports” for farmers. The position will be based at the USDA-ARS Central Great Plains Research Center in Akron, CO.

Essential Job Duties

Research:

• Responsible for accurate and precise research data collection and collation for field trials.
• Assist with lab research as needed and run post-harvest grain analyses.

Trial maintenance:

• Put out plot stakes, hoe weeds as needed if chemical control is not possible, and mow around trial entry points.

Supervision

This position does not have supervision responsibilities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ability to work with a small team and follow instructions to complete tasks.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work in outdoor environmental conditions including exposure to weather (hot and cold).
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, which includes: some lifting up to 40 lb, manual dexterity, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and handling.
• Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous field research experience.
• Strong work ethic and self-motivation.
• Willingness to learn about agronomy.

Salary Range

$19.00 to $22.00 an hour.

Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

• Resume/CV.

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.