IPM Research Scout, Moorhead and Crookston (2 openings)

Title: IPM Research Scout (two openings)

Locations: Moorhead area and Crookston area

Program Area: Extension Department of Agricultural & Natural Resource Systems (ANR)

Timeframe: Approximately May 19-August 21, 2026, may request slightly earlier start date or slightly later end date based upon the growing season start and candidate availability

Classification: Temporary, job code 0006. This is an hourly appointment with an estimated 0-40 hours/week.

Compensation: $16-$20/hour; depending on qualifications and experience. Work related mileage and expenses will be reimbursed.

Apply by: May 1, 2026

About the Job

The employees’ main responsibility will be to collect wheat and soybean insect and disease information in western Minnesota farm fields by daily travel to sample sites. The employee will work as part of a team of three crop scouts based out of the Crookston, Moorhead, and Morris U of M Regional Extension Offices. This information will benefit Extension and our stakeholders by feeding digital, print and in-person programming in a timely fashion. The successful candidate will be experienced and willing to take on new challenges.

Primary Responsibilities

Key responsibilities will include:

• Working independently to travel to farm fields and survey wheat or soybean crops in the assigned scouting region, with the goal of visiting as many fields as possible each week to collect accurate data about insect pests and diseases.
• Attending spring scout training kickoff and bi-weekly Zoom meetings to learn more about scouting protocols, what to look out for and best practices.
• Keeping leased UMN fleet vehicle clean, arranging for scheduled maintenance if needed, and following all UMN rules regarding use of this vehicle.
• Employees will also be responsible for data entry and communicating with project leaders.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• A completed semester of post-secondary class experience in collecting biological data and basic identification of organisms.
• Successful applicants must be able to work independently and with attention to detail while completing tasks with and without supervision.
• Successful candidates must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and be able to use a University fleet vehicle to complete tasks.
• Successful candidates will spend most of their time in both a vehicle and in farm fields, including on uneven terrain, during summer weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in integrated pest management, entomology, plant pathology, agronomy, soils and soil fertility, agricultural education, or related field.
• Ability to readily identify plants (e.g., crop growth staging), insects, or diseases.
• 1+ years of biological data collection and management experience in field settings.
• 1+ years of experience in the agricultural industry; on farms or in retail settings.

About Extension

University of Minnesota Extension is a major outreach arm of the University of Minnesota with a mission to serve the public through applied research and education. Our mission is to make a difference by connecting community needs and University resources to address critical issues in Minnesota. Extension strives to attract and retain high-quality, passionate employees, and weave diversity, equity and inclusion into all aspects of Extension’s programming and employee engagement. Find further information on the Extension website.

Pay Range: $16 – $20/hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.

Please submit the following required Application steps:

• Upload your Resume that includes all your education and experience as it relates to the required qualifications.
• Include your location interest(s), Moorhead or Crookston, by uploading a cover letter, or adding your location choice on your resume.

Additional documents may be attached after the application by accessing your “My Job Applications” page and uploading documents in the “My Cover Letters and Attachments” section. See full application instructions.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail [email protected] or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.