Research Technician Agronomy - 04416/22 & Gates Green Ammonia - Office of Research Development

About IFDC

The International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) is a public international organization that advances soil health and strengthens agricultural systems through science-based innovation. For over 50 years, IFDC has translated research into practical solutions that improve nutrient use efficiency, restore degraded soils, strengthen local agricultural markets and expand opportunity for smallholder farmers, especially women and youth.

We work with farmers, governments and private sector partners to build resilient farming systems that produce nutritious food, improve livelihoods, and safeguard natural resources for future generations.

Our Values

We are guided by four core principles:

Collaborate – We work across teams, countries and partners to create lasting impact.

Innovate – We apply evidence and continuous learning to design practical and responsible solutions.

Include – We promote equity and meaningful participation for women, youth and underrepresented groups.

Act with Integrity – We steward resources responsibly, uphold transparency and remain accountable to the communities, partners, staff and donors who place their trust in us.

Position Summary

This position is responsible for conducting research activities and maintaining associated facilities including greenhouses. The position is in the Innovation and Research Department of the IFDC’s Research and Development Division. 

Responsibilities

• Execution of research experiments as per the protocols developed by Research Scientists. 

• Executing day-to-day operations of the research experiments according to the requirements of the research projects. Some examples include preparation of the greenhouse, soils for experiments, agronomic operations such as watering, fertilization, harvesting, grinding of plant and soil samples, and travel to obtain soils for experiments. 

• Monitoring and maintaining greenhouse facilities and experiments (e.g., cleaning instruments and glassware, controlling environmental conditions, collecting experimental data as instructed, monitoring growth of plants, informing supervisors of progress) 

• Maintenance of research equipment, troubleshoot technical issues, and coordinate repairs and maintenance as needed. 

• Ensure compliance with protocols, safety standards, and regulatory requirements. 

• Participating in training programs as per the requirements. 

• Performing a variety of other related minor duties as required. 

Requirements

• Minimum of a high school diploma. 

• Relevant research experience in managing research facilities associated with soil chemistry and agronomy such as greenhouses is preferred. 

• Ability to follow detailed instruction to maintain proper operation and safety procedures. 

• Ability to drive large trucks and forklifts to transport large volumes of soil 

• Ability to perform basic math calculations (e.g., calculating sample metric weights, properly measuring and mixing chemicals)

Reporting and Work Relationships

This position Reports to Research Associate or Research Manager. 

Location

This is a national recruitment with a duty station at the IFDC office based in Muscles Shoals.

Benefits

IFDC's benefits include annual and sick leave, health and group life insurance coverage, a 13th-month salary, social security and pension contribution in compliance with local laws and end-of-contract benefits.

US Specific:

IFDC's benefits include annual and sick leave, health, dental, vision and group life insurance coverage, social security and pension contribution in compliance with local laws.

Salary Clause

The salary grade for this position is BG 5 with an annual salary of $39,500.00  

The determination of new employee salaries takes into account various factors. These include the salary range linked to the assigned job grade, the candidate's qualifications in relation to the job's responsibilities and prerequisites, internal fairness, the competitive state of the job market, as well as potential organizational and budgetary considerations.

Diversity Clause

IFDC is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe in the value of bringing together people with a broad range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. All employment decisions at IFDC are made on the basis of ability, performance, and organizational need, in alignment with our values of fairness, respect, and opportunity for all.