The USDA, ARS, Cropping Systems and Water Quality Research Unit (CSWQRU) in Columbia, Missouri, is seeking a Research Agricultural Engineer to conduct irrigation research at the Portageville, Missouri work site. The overall mission of the CSWQRU is to develop knowledge and provide technological solutions to optimize agricultural production systems at the sub-field to watershed scale, for both economic and environmental sustainability. The successful applicant will be part of an interdisciplinary team of scientists conducting research to optimize irrigated crop production for humid and sub-humid climates.

Specific research goals of this position are to (1) develop water-saving irrigation techniques applicable to humid and sub-humid environments and evaluate agronomic and environmental impacts, (2) develop and/or evaluate precision irrigation practices that account for variability in soil and environmental conditions, and (3) conduct collaborative research to optimize irrigated production systems and improve crop water productivity. The successful candidate will interact with scientists at local, regional, national, and international levels who are employed by state and federal agencies, universities, and industry. They will plan and conduct field research, analyze, and interpret research data, and present and publish results.

U.S. Citizenship is required.

For further information and complete application instructions, go to the USAJobs Web site: https://www.usajobs.gov/ and refer to announcement number ARS-D23MWA-11789987-ELA. Applications must be received by the closing date of February 9, 2023.

Contacts: Application procedure: Elsa Ayala elsa.ayala@usda.gov 301-504-1369.
Scientific information: Kenneth Sudduth ken.sudduth@usda.gov 573-882-4090.

USDA/ARS is an equal opportunity employer and provider

• You must be a US Citizen or US National.
• Males born after 12/31/1959 must be Selective Service registered or exempt.
• Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
• Direct Deposit: Per Public Law 104-134 all Federal employees are required to have federal payments made by direct deposit to their financial institution.
• Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit E-Verify at https://www.e-verify.gov/.
• Successful completion of a three year probationary period.
• Valid motor vehicle driver's license is required and must be maintained for travel to local field sites and research farms.
• Refer to job posting for education and experience requirements.

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Our vision is to provide economic opportunity through innovation, helping rural America to thrive; to promote agriculture production that better nourishes Americans while also helping feed others throughout the world; and to preserve our Nation's natural resources through conservation, restored forests, improved watersheds, and healthy private working lands.

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