Part-Time Agricultural Assistant I - Greenhouse & Plant Growth Chambers

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities

Maintain greenhouse and growth chamber operations to support plant growth and research activities.
Monitor plant health and implement pest management strategies, including beneficial insect programs.
Inspect, operate, and troubleshoot environmental systems, including lighting, ventilation, and growth chambers.
Clean, disinfect, and prepare greenhouses, chambers, and work areas to maintain facility standards.
Prepare fertilizer solutions and perform routine plant care and maintenance.
Manage inventories of soils, fertilizers, pots, and other supplies.
Sterilize and properly dispose of plant materials and seeds according to established protocols.
Communicate with researchers and facility users regarding plant care, space usage, and operational needs.
Maintain records of facility activities, maintenance, and service requests.
Train users, resolve operational issues, and provide technical support for greenhouse and growth chamber facilities.

About the Role

This is a part-time, benefits-eligible position working 20 hours per week. We offer flexibility in scheduling and can work with candidates to establish a schedule that meets both operational and personal needs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience working with plants in a greenhouse, growth chamber, research, or agricultural environment.
• Familiarity with greenhouse operations and maintenance, including environmental controls, irrigation systems, and sanitation procedures.
• Coursework, degree, or professional experience in Horticulture, Entomology, Plant Science, Agriculture, Biology, or a related field.

Benefits

We offer comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans, generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans, onsite childcare, life insurance and long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, various voluntary benefits and discounts, employee assistance program, and wellbeing program.

Pay

The pay grade is PS804. Individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

Schedule

This is a part-time position working 20 hours per week.

Application Instructions

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following: Resume/Curriculum Vitae Letter of Application/Cover Letter Why Choose Iowa State University?