Soil Biogeochemistry Technician

Full job description
Soil Biogeochemistry Technician


Primary Purpose: The Research Technician is part of the SAGE (Soil and Agroecosystem) Lab in the Department of Soil Science at the University of Saskatchewan. This position will provide research support to Dr. Melissa Arcand and perform lab and fieldwork.

Nature of Work: The Research Technician will be involved in a range of lab, field, and greenhouse research projects related to soil biogeochemistry and soil health. Participation in field work and greenhouse experiments will be required. Travel will be required, with occasional overnight trips. The position reports directly to Dr. Arcand and will be located in the SAGE Lab in the College of Agriculture and Bioresources.

Typical Duties/Accountabilities:

Perform soil chemical and biochemical assays as well as other soil, gas, and plant analyses
Field collection of soil, plant, insect, and greenhouse gas samples
Adapting and updating standard operating procedures
Sample tracking and inventories
Data collation, management, and tracking
Maintaining a clean and safe laboratory work environment
Updating and tracking chemical inventories
Support technical aspects of graduate and undergraduate student research projects
Qualifications

Education:
A Diploma in environmental monitoring, laboratory technology plus relevant work experience; or a Bachelor’s degree in soil science, environmental science, or a related field is required. Preference may be given to candidates with a related MSc.

Licenses: Valid Saskatchewan driver’s license (or equivalent) is required.

Experience:
Knowledge of laboratory methodologies, tools, theories, practices and principles related to soil and plant sciences. Knowledge of sample handling and general laboratory procedures. Prior experience working in a research laboratory is desired. Field experience, particularly soil sample collection, will be considered an asset.

Skills:
The ability to use scientific instruments and tools and to apply established scientific techniques and methodologies. The ability to interpret and follow standard operating procedures. Excellent communication, time management, and organizational skills are required. The ability to work outdoors and perform physical duties such as walking long distances and lifting a maximum of 50 lbs. The ability to work in a team environment comprised of diverse students, technicians, and other staff.

Interested candidates must submit one document containing a resume and cover letter and three references.

Department: Soil Science
Status: Term 1 year with the possibility of extension
Employment Group: Research Positions - Non-union
Shift: Mon-Fri, 8:00 - 4:30
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Family (if applicable):
Salary Phase/Band: Not Applicable
Posted Date: 7/2/2025
Closing Date: 7/15/2025 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus


The successful applicant will be required to provide the following current verification(s) where 'Yes' is indicated below. Further information is available at: https://careers.usask.ca/tips-for-applying.php

Criminal Record Check: Not Applicable
Driver's License and Abstract Check: Yes
Education/Credential Verification: Not Applicable
Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable

The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. The University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan. Read more