Primary Purpose: The Barley & Oat Breeding Program at the University of Saskatchewan (USASK), Crop Development Centre (CDC) is seeking a motivated and reliable research technician.
Nature of Work: The successful applicant will participate primarily in grain quality analysis of barley and oat samples in a lab setting (typically September – May) to provide data in a timely manner that supports the breeding program objectives. The candidate will also assist with activities related to the field breeding program including outdoor field data collection, harvest and greenhouse work (typically June – August). All work will be conducted in a team environment in collaboration with other research technicians and under the supervision of senior technicians.
Typical Duties or Accountabilities: Lab duties will involve repetitive work related to grinding grain samples, wet chemistry analyses and operation/maintenance of various equipment such as NIRS, Gallery Analyzer, ANKOM TDF Analyzer and Rapid Visco Analyzer. Field breeding program duties include data collection (e.g. plant maturity and height), harvest and greenhouse work (crossing, watering, potting). Entry, organization and quality control of data required.
Qualifications
Education: A post-secondary diploma or undergraduate degree in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, agriculture or a related discipline is required. Those with a Ph.D. would be overqualified for this position and will thus not be considered.
Experience:
- A minimum of 1 year of relevant work experience in an analytical or research lab.
- Experience in various lab activities like extractions, colorimetric/kit assays, operation and maintenance of equipment.
- Experience handling large sets of data.
- Experience working in field or greenhouse environments will be considered an asset.
- A valid class 5 driver’s license will be considered an asset.
Skills:
- Ability to identify and trouble shoot problems related to analytical methods, equipment operation or data entry.
- Ability to multi-task, manage time efficiently and maintain accurate records.
- Proficiency with lab equipment and related software is essential.
- Work independently in a multi-disciplinary, group environment.
- Perform physical work in an outdoor field or greenhouse environment.
- Excellent oral and written communications skills in English.
To Apply: Application should be a single PDF-file. Applications should include resume and two references from individuals familiar with the applicant’s experience. No telephone calls please. We thank all applicants in advance, only those who are selected for an interview will be contacted.
Department: College of Agric&Biores-DnOffc
Status: Term, 1.5 years (maternity fill) with strong possibility of extension
Employment Group: Research Positions - Non-union
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $42,824.60 - 68,515.20 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Phase/Band: Salary Band 5
Posted Date: 7/15/2026
Closing Date: 8/25/2026
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus
The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action.
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 the 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 provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us for assistance.
