Temporary Agricultural Worker (Field Research Unit); Geneva, New York

Cornell University•Geneva, IL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is Cornell University’s second-largest college, dedicated to purpose-driven science through research, education, and outreach. CALS addresses critical challenges in natural and human systems, food, energy, environmental resources, and social, physical, and economic well-being. Cornell AgriTech, established in 1880, serves as a vital hub for food and agriculture research and extension, significantly contributing to New York state's agricultural economy. The Field Research Unit at Cornell AgriTech provides essential services and support to research farms in the Geneva area. As a member of this team, the Temporary Agricultural Worker will be responsible for daily maintenance of large machinery, including fluid checks, greasing, and inspecting belts and tires. The role also involves maintaining farm service roads, ditch banks, and pond edges to prevent erosion and ensure accessibility, and ensuring fields are accessible to researchers and staff by managing vegetation in plots and around field borders.

Requirements

High School Diploma and 1+ years of farm agricultural experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
Ability to work in field locations that can be difficult to access
Must be able to navigate uneven terrain at times
Ability to lift 50 pounds
Strong organizational skills
Proven experience in communicating effectively, both written and oral
Exceptional attention to detail and strong observational skills
Ability to work independently once provided sufficient direction
Ability to work alone or with a team and problem-solve as needed
Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather
Must be safety oriented
Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members
Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position and have reliable transportation
Have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver’s license and be cleared to drive for university business

Responsibilities

Perform daily maintenance on large machinery, including checking fluids, greasing, and inspecting belts and tires
Maintain farm service roads, ditch banks, and pond edges to prevent erosion and ensure accessibility
Safely operate equipment, including operating tractors and rotary mowers, flail mowers and bush hogs across uneven ground, slopes, and obstacles like rocks, stumps, fencelines and risers
Maintain clean equipment and a clean work environment
Ensure fields are accessible to researchers and staff by maintaining vegetation in plots and around field borders
Use pressure washers, edgers, spreaders, and gardening hand tools
Travel from farm to farm on county roads in a tractor with an implement attached
Know, understand, adhere and train others to conform to all safety requirements and regulations