Job Description

As a global leader in student-managed learning opportunities, we are committed to developing leaders at Lakeland College. It's something we excel at because of our exceptional team. Their passion and commitment to academic excellence, innovation and achievement is what sets Lakeland apart, as an educator and an employer. Join our team and be part of helping our students take the lead not only into the future, but today.

Key Responsibilities

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Under the guidance of crop and livestock scientists and research associates, the successful candidate will provide technical support for a variety of research projects. From May through August, you will contribute to the management of small plot trials, designed to investigate the best management practices relevant to crop production in central Alberta. From September to December, the candidate will join the livestock research group and assist with daily farm activities, chores, and data collection applicable to the program.


The primary projects that this position will support include:

Utilizing polycrops for efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective winter swathgrazing."; and Investigating the use of the Weed-It precision sprayer: Smarter spraying for effective and economical crop production During the practicum, you will work closely with other practicum students and research staff to ensure that trials are executed safely and effectively. You will also be involved in other projects. Crop research tasks involve collecting, processing, and organizing data, operating plot research equipment (including but not limited to tractors, seeders, sprayers, harvesters, etc.), applying pesticide treatments, maintaining trials according to research protocols and crop stage guidelines. Livestock research tasks involve data collection, operating agricultural equipment (that may include Razer Grazer, Greenfeed, Smartfeed, weather stations, drones, ATVs, or feed wagons), animal handling, animal behaviour and health checks, organizing and maintaining research data/files, and collecting, storing and transporting samples; as per various research protocols. Other duties include entering data, transporting equipment, maintaining project photo databases, assisting with research event coordination, and assisting scientists during extension events. Research activities are to be performed safely with attention to detail as well as maintaining a high standard of animal care, animal and human safety, and biosecurity. Cattle observations and care on pasture will be required during the fall season.

Job Requirements

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A current student enrolled in or a recent graduate of a Diploma/Degree in Agriculture Technology, Crop Science or a related field. Experience with cropping systems including seeding, pesticide management, pest identification, crop staging, and weed identification. Experience with animal husbandry and working with large animals such as beef and dairy. Skills in solar powered equipment trouble shooting and wire fence repair would be an asset. A basic understanding of research designs, data-collection methodologies and an aptitude for emerging technological applications or tools. Experience with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Strong interpersonal, networking, time management and communication skills. Attention to detail and discipline in collecting and recording observations for building datasets. Travel to field daily for observations and site management, and evening or weekend work in peak season. Previous experience operating farm equipment is an asset but not required.

Keys to Your Success

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Self-motivated; curious with ability to work under minimaldirection to prioritize and execute tasks; professional accountability. Effective goal setting with solid organizational and planning skills. Demonstrates a positive attitude; ability to lead and motivate others and be committed to collaboration. Valid class 5 license, willingness to haul a trailer or flatbed, and safe driving record.

Additional Information

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There is 1 full-time 8-month practicum position based in Vermilion commencing May 1, 2026. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Competition will remain open until October 27, 2025

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All resumes are to be submitted electronically on our website

www.Lakelandcollege.ca

For further information, please contact:


Francois Paradis, Dean of Applied Research at 780-853-8571,


Carolyn Jackson, Crop Research Associate, at carolyn.jackson@lakelandcollege.ca,


Carien Vandenberg, Livestock Research Associate at carien.vandenberg@lakelandcollege.ca