University of Florida Agricultural Assistant III

Plant Science Research and Education Unit (PSREU) supports specialized research on fruit, vegetables, turf, agronomic, and ornamental crops for the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS). The unit aims to provide precise, reliable data to ensure successful research outcomes.

Job Description:

Primary Responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to the following

Field Research Management: Oversee and support faculty research projects related to turfgrass, ornamentals, and greenhouse crops. Ensure the consistent care of study plots and adherence to research protocols.

Turfgrass and Ornamental Care: Implement management practices for land preparation, plot layouts, mulch application, pest scouting, and pest management. Apply and calibrate pesticides and fertilizers, maintaining compliance with Florida regulations.

Irrigation Systems: Install, maintain, and repair various irrigation systems, including large turf rotors, microjets, and drip irrigation. Operate and manage Toro LYNX computerized irrigation control system.

Equipment Operations: Assist with training staff on the operation and maintenance of equipment for turfgrass maintenance, planting, maintenance, and harvesting.

Equipment Maintenance: Perform preventative maintenance and repairs for turfgrass and research equipment. Manage tool inventory and equipment. Order parts and recommend equipment replacement as needed. service records. A working knowledge of grinding and adjusting reels and bedknives is required.

Grounds and Building Upkeep: Assist with the maintenance of turfgrass research center, greenhouses, and conference center grounds. All support buildings are to be kept clean and orderly.

Data Collection and Recommendations: Assist with data collection for research projects, record management inputs, and suggest production improvements.

Field Operations: Collaborate with other agricultural assistants and research coordinators for various field operations, including planting, fertilization, irrigation, and harvesting.

Program Support: Assist with PSREU programs and emergency response as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's A.S or B.S. degree in a related field of research or 3 – 5 years of experience in a related field.

Licenses and Certifications: Knowledge and ability to obtain and maintain a State of Florida Public Pesticide License with endorsements for Ornamental and Turf, Agriculture Row Crop, and Soil and Greenhouse Fumigation. Have or obtain certification in Florida Green Industry Best Management Practices.

Pesticide and Fertilizer Handling: Expertise in pesticide and fertilizer handling, mixing, application equipment, and calibration.

Data Management: Proficiency in reading data, maintaining records, and performing arithmetical calculations.

Research Assistance: Knowledge of the experimental method as employed in agricultural research.

Work Planning: Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments effectively.

Attention to Detail: Strong attention to detail and accuracy in performing tasks.

Interpersonal Skills: Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with others.

Communication: Effective communication skills, both written and oral

For more information please call 352-591-2678.

To apply visit https://explore.jobs.ufl.edu/en-us/job/533188/agricultural-assistant-iii or jobs.ufl.edu enter 533188