Classification Title:

Agricultural Assistant II

Classification Minimum Requirements:

High school diploma or equivalent and two years of relevant experience. Appropriate college coursework or vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

Job Description:

Primary Responsibilities:

Plant Material Production 

Propagate, prune, and harvest plant material to support insect and mite colonies Ensure plant quality and age meet the standards required for arthropod colony health Select and source appropriate plant material to support research needs Participate in field operations, including the use of state and utility vehicles

Arthropod Colony Care & Monitoring 

Feed, water, and maintain healthy environments for insect and mite colonies Monitor colony health and implement isolation, quarantine, or treatment as needed Maintain detailed records on colony performance and health metrics Assist with arthropod monitoring in tropical fruit groves Install, service, and retrieve insect trapping devices Collect and prepare field samples for laboratory analysis

Maintenance Duties 

Assist with cleaning, maintenance, and repair of greenhouses, insectary rooms, and lab equipment Conduct routine upkeep of irrigation systems and field trapping equipment Expected Salary:

$18.00 an hour 

Required Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent and two years of relevant experience. Appropriate college coursework or vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

Preferred:

Individuals with experience in plant caring and insect trapping and rearing. Fluency in Spanish or Portuguese to communicate with local growers who do not speak English.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

This position is a full-time limited position located in Homestead, Florida, open to current UF employees only.

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume. 

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Health Assessment Required:  Yes