Student: Plant Growth Facilities Technician
About The Position
The Plant Growth Facilities at Augsburg University provide critical support to the Biology Department mission of education and research in the life sciences. A living collection of over 500 plant species is maintained in the rooftop greenhouse, and climate-controlled plant growth rooms are used extensively for research projects across the School of Natural Sciences. The care and cultivation of our permanent plant collection and maintenance of our plant research spaces is vital work that occurs on a near-daily basis. The Biology Department is hiring a student worker for the position of Plant Growth Facilities Technician. The Plant Growth Facilities Technician will work closely with Curator Dr. Leon van Eck to maintain the health and wellbeing of the living plant collection, and to ensure the growth spaces are functioning optimally to support teaching and research.
Requirements
- Be a current Biology, Biochemistry, or Environmental and Sustainability Science Major
- Be work-study eligible
- Have completed at least two semesters of Biology coursework
- Have an interest in botany, horticulture, plant conservation, or a related field
- Be able to climb ladders, lift light loads, and maneuver in tight spaces
- Be available to work weekends
- Have excellent communication and observation skills
- adhere to lab safety practices and undergo provided lab safety training
Responsibilities
- Daily watering of plants in the greenhouse and growth rooms
- Weekly application of fertilizer
- Hosting Augsburg community during Greenhouse First Friday every month during the semester
- Seed germination, potting, pruning, and pest control as directed
- General cleaning and maintenance of Plant Growth Facilities, including greenhouse, headhouse, and growth rooms
- Quarterly algae suppression treatment of greenhouse floor
- Weekly emptying of sediment traps in headhouse
- Planting of feeder plants for aphid colony and maintaining general aphid growth chamber hygiene
- Frequent communication with Curator Dr. Van Eck and Biology Lab Manager Chris Palahniuk to maintain continuity of care
Benefits
- Minnesota Sick and Safe Time
- Minnesota Paid Family and Medical Leave
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
