OPS Biological Sciences Technician (Plant Pathology)

University of Florida•St. Lucie, FL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This part-time position, located in UF / Fort Pierce, St. Lucie County, supports research staff conducting experiments related to insect-transmitted viruses and other diseases in vegetable systems and other regional crops. The role focuses on monitoring insect disease vectors, processing field samples, evaluating plant disease severity, and maintaining research plots. The position requires meticulous field data collection, plot biosecurity, and the ability to work in varying Florida agricultural weather conditions, as well as precisely follow sample processing protocols. The position is time-limited and does not qualify for benefits.

Requirements

Must be comfortable executing specific field data and strict tool sanitation protocols without constant direct oversight.
Must be comfortable working outdoors in Florida.

Nice To Haves

Ability to work a part-time: Part-time, 3 days per week (typically 24 hours per week).
Must be comfortable executing specific field data and strict tool sanitation protocols without constant direct oversight.
Must be comfortable working outdoors in Florida.

Responsibilities

Conduct field insect population surveys across diverse vegetable crops in field experiments.
Inspect host plants and collect data from physical sticky traps to track known plant disease vectors (e.g., whiteflies and thrips).
Perform accurate counts and digitally log vector population levels.
Establish and help maintain experimental vegetable plots.
Plant seeds and transplant delicate seedlings into the field.
Perform hand-weeding and apply precise fertilizer, and help install row covers or stakes to maintain healthy plant environments.
Organize botanical, soil, or insect samples directly at field sites.
Screen diverse crops for visual disease symptoms (e.g., blights, mildews, wilts, or viral mosaics).
Log sample data and metadata onto physical sheets or mobile field applications.
Participate in occasional day trips to external research locations or commercial fields to collect collaborative data sets and monitor regional disease outbreaks.