Temporary Agricultural Worker (Cornell University Agricultural Experiment Station); Ithaca, New York

Cornell University•Ithaca, MI

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at Cornell University is seeking a Temporary Agricultural Worker for the Cornell University Agricultural Experiment Station (Cornell AES) in Ithaca, New York. Cornell AES is crucial for New York state agriculture and food security, advancing research on agriculture, food systems, the environment, applied economics, and community development. The greenhouses and growth chambers managed by Cornell AES provide controlled environments for sensitive research, with computerized systems for regulating temperature, light, and humidity. The staff provides year-round support for research plants and maintains critical conditions for success.

Requirements

High School Diploma
Experience with plant care
Demonstrated ability to consistently pay close attention to detail
Proven competence for observing and identifying plant stressors
Physically able to regularly climb and work from a ladder; bend/kneel, climb under benches and equipment; efficiently shovel dense materials; lift over 50 pounds; and ability to work in all temperature conditions including extreme cold and warm.
Able to safely and effectively work with shop hand tools, portable drills and power saws.
Demonstrated ability to work productively in a team as well as independently.
Must be flexible, service-minded and respectful.
Exhibit good organizational skills and close attention to detail.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position and have reliable transportation.
Must have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver’s license and be cleared to drive for university business.
Have reliable transportation and be willing to respond for emergency duty.
Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, e-mail, and web browsers to communicate on a daily basis with coworkers.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s Degree in horticulture
Direct greenhouse growing experience

Responsibilities

Maintain appropriate and timely plant care, including watering and fertilizing.
Monitor the greenhouse environment and greenhouse facilities.
Promptly inform the supervisor of any suspected problems.
Cleaning and organizing greenhouses and associated work areas.
Cleaning and sterilizing pots, organizing supplies, and conducting routine maintenance.
Mixing and preparing growing media.
Handling fertilizers, potting materials, and other supplies.
Autoclave loading, operation, and unloading.
Interacting in a professional manner with all facility clients and co-workers.
Helping maintain a safe workplace.
Fully understanding watering notes and executing plant care instructions as described by growers.
Checking with supervisor and growers for clarification when needed.