Assistant Plant Diagnostician

Position Description:
The primary responsibility of the assistant diagnostician will be to support all aspects of the NDSU Plant Diagnostic Lab. Duties will include receiving plant disease, weed, and insect samples and checking into database; interacting with commercial and homeowner clients who submit samples to the lab both in person and electronically; consulting with appropriate specialists as needed to make accurate and timely identifications of plant problems (both biotic and abiotic) and plant/insect/fungus identifications. The assistant diagnostician will help evaluate and process samples and perform diagnostic tests and procedures, which requires knowledge of microscopy, PCR , ELISA , and other procedures associated with microorganisms. Direct experience is preferred. The assistant will prepare written reports that summarize the diagnosis and provide management recommendations, under the guidance of the plant diagnostician. Additional duties include working cooperatively with the plant diagnostician and technical staff to assist Extension personnel, state and federal regulatory personnel, and research personnel and assist with seed health testing. Assisting the plant diagnostician with the Introduction to Plant Pathology labs and the Diseases of the Landscape course. Participation in the Great Plains Diagnostic Network is expected. The assistant will help the diagnostician to comply with conditions of import permits and to fulfill requirements to become a NPDN STAR -D accredited Plant Diagnostic Lab by participating in the creation of a quality management system. Other opportunities and duties may be identified in this position, depending on the interests and experience of the selected candidate.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must have a B.S. or M.S. in plant pathology, agronomy, horticulture, soils, or closely related field.
• One year or more experience in a lab or regulatory setting
• General Lab skills
• Time management skills
• Excellent customer service skills
• Good interpersonal, oral & written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• M.S. in plant pathology, is preferred but not required.
• Preference will be given to candidates with experience in lab or field diagnostics, knowledge of plant management systems, and previous teaching experience.

Open Until Filled: Yes
Search Type: Internal/External Simultaneously: Open to all applicants
Special Conditions:

• Willingness to learn, ability to work in a team environment & self-motivation

No Smoking Notice:
As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. • 23-12-10.

EO/AA Statement:
NDSU does not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of age, color, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, participation in lawful off-campus activity, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, spousal relationship to current employee, or veteran status, as applicable.

Veteran's Preference Notice: This position is subject to North Dakota Veteran's Preference requirements.
Location (City, State): Fargo, ND

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * Are you a North Dakota resident?
   • Yes
   • No
2. * Do you qualify for North Dakota veteran's preference?
   • Yes
   • No
3. If yes, list exact dates of service:
   (Open Ended Question)
   
4. Do you qualify for North Dakota disabled veteran's preference?
   • Yes
   • No
5. * How did you hear about this position?
   • Academic Department
   • Bismarck Tribune
   • CareerFargo.com
   • Chronicle of Higher Education
   • Fargo Forum
   • JobsHQ
   • Friend/Co-worker/Family member
   • Higheredjobs.com
   • Indeed.com
   • Job Service of North Dakota
   • NDSU Employee
   • NDSU Website
   • Other newspaper (Please specify below)
   • Professional Publication/Organization Website
   • University Placement Office
   • Inside Higher Education
   • Other (Please specify below)
6. If Other, please specify:
   (Open Ended Question)
   

Applicant Documents
Required Documents

1. Cover Letter
2. Resume

Optional Documents

1. Veterans Preference Claim Form (DD214)
2. Veterans Administration Letter
3. Other Document 1
4. Other Document 2