Seasonal Research Technician

Rodale Institute's Seasonal Research Technician position is an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in agricultural research in the field and lab.

The Seasonal Research Technician position is an entry level opportunity for aspiring researchers to gain experience with organic regenerative agriculture, field research design, sample collection, and laboratory protocols. Rodale Institute’s research focuses on innovative methods for improving soil health, food nutrient density, water use efficiency, reducing pests, and greenhouse gas emissions. Seasonal Research Technicians work on all active projects and are critical to the completion of essential day-to-day research activities. The position also includes opportunities to participate in Rodale field events, such as the annual Kutztown Field Day.

Rodale’s Research Trials

• Farming Systems Trial (FST) – the oldest continuous trial in the US comparing organic and conventional grain cropping systems.
• Vegetable Systems Trial (VST) – comparing the impacts of organic and conventional farming practices on nutrient density in vegetables and linking nutrient density to soil health parameters.
• Integrated Weed Management Trials – studying organic methods to manage weeds, combining biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools.
• Perennial Systems Program – Advancing organic methods of tree fruit and nut production through technology integration, while conducting genetics and management research to determine best practices in alleycropping and silvopasture agroforestry systems.
• Industrial Hemp Trials – investigating best agronomic practices for growing industrial hemp in PA and using it as a tool in organic farming systems.
• Additional field, greenhouse, and laboratory studies are also conducted.

• Collect and process soil, plant, insect, grain, and produce samples using industry-standard protocols.
• Conduct soil analyses including bulk density, compaction, infiltration, etc.
• Conduct plant analyses including weed identification, stand counts, and pest damage assessment.
• Lay out experimental field plots using GPS mapping, in-field measurements, and flagging.
• Tend and maintain field, greenhouse, and/or high tunnel experiments (using hand tools, weedwhackers, mowers, watering, etc.).
• Enter data precisely and in a timely manner and assist with data compilation and organization.
• Maintenance of laboratory spaces and specialized laboratory and field equipment.

• Undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited college or university
• A strong work ethic, initiative, and motivation
• Attention to detail and a high level of care
• The ability to work well individually and in a team environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Interest in regenerative agricultural issues, practices, and/or research
• Willingness to work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions
• Experience in agriculture, horticulture, or field research strongly preferred 
• Must be able to lift 50lbs.
• To be trustful and respectful to all staff and visitors

• Location: Rodale Institute Headquarters, 611 Siegfriedale Road, Kutztown, PA 19530
• Compensation: Seasonal technicians will be paid $20/hour. Organic produce from the farm is occasionally available during the growing season.
• Housing: Communal, on-site, co-ed housing is available for seasonal technicians.  Housing is provided in a farmhouse located on Rodale Institute property in Kutztown, PA.
• Schedule: Seasonal technicians work full-time for a period of eight months, from the beginning of April through the end of November (Thanksgiving).
• Travel: This position is primarily at the Rodale Institute main campus in Kutztown, PA.  However, travel for this position may involve local travel to farms that are part of on-farm trials, and to local or regional workshops and conferences.
• Deadlines: Please submit all application materials by February 1, 2026.

• Application Materials: 
  • Cover letter (including dates of availability)
  • Contact information for 3 references
  • Resume or CV
  • Transcripts (optional)