Research Plot Technician

MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM - SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

TITLE: Sustainable Agriculture Program Tech
SUPERVISOR: Farm Education Manager
CLASSIFICATION: Supplemental Hourly 4926

Position Overview: As part of the MLA Farm Apprentice and Sustainable Agriculture Certificate Program participants will work as part of a diverse and energetic team to do hands-on, technical plot maintenance and labor in sustainable vegetable production at the following sites: Farmhouse Gardens at the Arboretum, the Twin Cities Growing Good sites, and as assigned at other gardens at the Arboretum.
Responsibilities vary according to site, but will include the following:
* Weeding
* Watering
* Seeding
* Post-harvest handling and storage of fruits and vegetables
* Reading crop plans
* Composting and soil cultivation
* Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and plant care
* Creating harvest lists
* Managing deliveries of produce
* Maintaining greenhouses and farm equipment
* Keeping detailed logs and records

Physical Demands:
This job is at an outdoor farm site. This job requires frequent and regular lifting, driving, machine and hand tool operation, standing, walking, bending, listening, speaking, and reporting. Employees may need to safely operate and train others in the use of a work truck, mower, golf cart and other various power tools. There will be use of shared office equipment. There will be requirements for lifting, pushing, or pulling items up to 50 pounds.

** Please note, current responsibilities and work schedule subject to change, determined by supervisor and candidate.

Required Qualifications
Our ideal candidate will have the following:
* HS diploma/GED and two yrs. related education and/or related experience
* Capacity to perform while working with diverse team and crew
* Basic math and writing skills for keeping daily logs
* Commitment to the Arboretum Standards of Behavior
* Be able to work in all weather conditions
* Be able to lift 50 pounds
* A valid driver's license may be required for some placements

Desired Qualifications
Demonstrated interest in pursuing work or a career in fruit and vegetable growing
Demonstrated interest in local food, community development, and/or agriculture

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu 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.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.