<p>Do you have an interest in agriculture and food systems? Do you enjoy getting your hands dirty and growing food using all sorts of sustainable agriculture techniques? Do you enjoy utilizing data in furthering your understanding of what makes farming systems work? If so, then Kalamazoo Valley Community College may have the ideal job opportunity for you.</p> <p>We are looking for an Applied Research Technician, which is a seasonal position, and is part of a team responsible for implementing an Applied Research Program located at the college's Food Innovation Center (224 East Crosstown Parkway, Kalamazoo MI 49001). The Applied Research Program will gather data on the effectiveness of various agricultural systems in use at the Food Innovation Center, such as hydroponic lettuce, greenhouse tomatoes, and a new composting system. Research Technicians will be responsible for maintenance tasks, such as planting, weeding, and harvesting; troubleshooting and problem-solving; and for detailed and careful data collection. Training will be provided as needed.</p> <p>This position will also require working one weekend day per week.</p> <p>This is a temporary position, and continuation beyond July 2026 is contingent on available funding. Work will focus on setting up systems that could be sustained by existing staff in the possible absence of this position.</p> <p>Minimum Qualifications:</p> <ul> <li>High school diploma or equivalent required. </li><li>Candidates must be motivated, reliable, and able to work in a food-safe environment. </li><li>Must be able to communicate clearly and work as a member of the team. </li><li>ValleyHUB Farm includes many modes of growing. Employees must be able to transition between tasks quickly and be willing to learn new skills. </li></ul> <p>Preferred Qualifications and Experience:</p> <ul> <li>Prior experience in vegetable/plant production using field, greenhouse, hydroponic, aquaponic, and/or permaculture growing techniques will be considered an asset. </li><li>Prior experience with field or laboratory research in any basic science field. </li></ul> <p>Physical Demands:</p> <p>Lifting, bending, stooping, and standing required. Must be able to lift 40 lbs. Ability to work in hot, cold, wet, and dry conditions. Much of the work is outdoors during the normal growing season.</p> <p>Work Hours: 12-18 hours per week within the hours of 7:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., with some evening and weekend responsibilities, as assigned. Posting Date 02/04/2026 Closing Date: Special Instructions to Applicants:</p> <ul> <li>Please apply at Jobs.kvcc.edu. </li><li>This position will remain posted until filled, however the college does have the right to close the position when an adequate pool of qualified candidates is established. </li></ul> <p>EEO Statement</p> <p>As an employer, Kalamazoo Valley encourages, welcomes, and fosters differences because we believe that diversity makes us great. It is the policy of Kalamazoo Valley Community College not to discriminate on the basis of race (including traits associated with race such as hair texture and protective hairstyles), religion, color, national origin/ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, age, height, weight, familial status, veteran status, marital status, citizenship, or any other status or characteristic protected by law, in its programs, services, employment or activities. All qualified applicants will be given equal opportunity and consideration for employment; please consider joining us as we empower all to learn, grow and thrive.</p> <p>Prior to a job offer, candidates will be required to complete a criminal record background check. For some positions, a credit history investigation will also be required. Information gathered will be used for job-related purposes to the extent permitted by applicable law and will not result in an automatic disqualification from an employment opportunity.</p>