Overview:
The Western NY Crop Management Association is a farmer-owned cooperative that provides unbiased crop management and monitoring services to our members at cost. This paid position offers the candidate in-field professional experience in agricultural and environmental field work. The candidate will gain experience in crop production, integrated pest management (IPM), use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), data collection, report writing and verbal communication. It offers the opportunity to work with some of the most progressive farms in the area.
Experience:
The scout must be at least 18 years old, enjoy the outdoors and physically fit: the job involves hiking fields under occasionally adverse weather conditions. They must be dependable, detail-oriented, and able to work independently. He/she must maintain a valid driver license with minimal infractions.
Training: Hands-on training will be provided by Western NY Crop Management personnel and university resources throughout the season. The candidates are also expected to utilize any applicable resources to identify plant health problems and pests.
Duties:
The scout is the farmer and consultant’s eyes in the field. The scout will work daily with their supervising crop consultant to schedule and provide contracted crop monitoring services to our farmer members. Primary crops include corn, soybeans, alfalfa, wheat, etc. Crops are monitored for population, pests, weeds, and general health. Observed field data is entered into smartphones via our proprietary app. Reports are submitted to the farmer and the supervising consultant. The candidate must be able to accurately collect information and develop the ability to concisely summarize issues on the multitude of fields they are monitoring. It may also be necessary for the Scout to collect soil and plant samples. The candidates will have the opportunity to attend field days and learn about nutrient management on farms that they work with.
Equipment:
All equipment necessary to complete the assigned task will be provided, but reliable transportation is essential. Mileage will be reimbursed according to the IRS standard rate.
Employment Duration:
The scout position is full-time, seasonal, lasting from mid-May through early to mid-August. Start and end dates are somewhat flexible based on the candidate’s availability. However, they will need to be available from late May through late July and be willing to work overtime.
Compensation:
The scout is employed as an hourly employee. Wages will be paid at $17/hour up to 40 hours, and $25.50 / hour over 40 hours.
If you are interested in this position, please send a resume to dreger@wnycma.com.
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