Plant Technologist

Overview

Job Function:
Research

Location:

Roslindale

Job Type: Part-time

Salary Grade: 052

FLSA Status:
Non-exempt

Union: 55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Term Appointment:
Yes

The Arnold Arboretum seeks a part-time (18 hours per week, benefits-eligible) Plant Technologist to care for the plants, growth facilities, and research laboratories at the Weld Hill facility. The facility comprises approximately 6,800 square feet of greenhouse and related workspace, plus ~33,000 square feet of outdoor space. The Plant Technologist will work under the supervision of the Plant Growth Facilities Manager to ensure high-quality plants and growth facilities support research and teaching activities.

• Cares for Research and Teaching Plants.
• Works with Growth Facility Staff and researchers to establish and maintain healthy plants, including growth parameters, cultural practices, fertilizer and watering regimes.
• Provides plant care for a wide variety of species including watering, fertilization, and sanitation.
• Assists in assessing, diagnosing, and coordinating pest control treatments, including cultural and biological controls as needed.
• Maintains plant facilities and monitors the operation of greenhouses and growth chambers; reports issues to the Plant Growth Facilities Manager.
• Ensures the facility is clean, safe, and operating smoothly; coordinates with other staff as required.
• May administer special care to plants for researchers, determined on a project-by-project basis after consultation with researchers and the Plant Growth Facilities Manager.
• Reports and records plant health and pest/disease scouting results; maintains facility records and inventory.
• Performs related duties as required.

Please note: This position requires one weekend day of work per week and working half of the University holidays. This is a two-year term, with an end date two years from the date of hire.

Working Conditions: Must be able to work in hot, humid, or cold environments inside facilities and outdoors.

Physical Requirements: Must be able to work outdoors in various plant collections and habitats in all seasons. Ability to bend, reach, stoop, and lift. Ability to walk and stand for up to two hours at a time. Ability to climb ladders and frequently lift/carry up to 50 lbs. Protective equipment required during use of sanitizers, fertilizers, and soil preparation.

Basic Qualifications are the minimum threshold for consideration.

Two years of horticultural experience and experience with pest management principles, plant propagation/culture methods, and soil/growth media preparation are required.

• Experience with hand and power tools
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to prioritize tasks, work under pressure, and manage multiple projects
• Ability to work with faculty, students, researchers, vendors, and staff
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to ensure compliance with Federal, State, local regulations and University policies related to greenhouse and growth chamber operations

Must possess and maintain (or acquire within 3-4 months after hire) a valid driver’s license. RMV check required.

• Appointment End Date:
  This is a two-year term with an end date two years from hire.
• Standard Hours/
  
  Schedule:
  
  18 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship:
  Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening:
  Identity and Motor Vehicle Record checks required
• Other Information:
  This position is 100% on-site and is classified as essential staff. Weekend work and partial holiday coverage required. Orientation and review period of 3 months.

PI