Greenhouse Superintendent

Job Category Technical

Position Title Greenhouse Superintendent

Full Time/Part Time Full Time

Division Dean of the Faculty

Department Biology

Work Arrangement type On-Site (Hamilton, NY) - expected to work fully at the designated campus/office location.

Hiring Wage/Salary Range $26.85-$30.35/hour

Professional Experience/ Qualifications

Experience propagating and cultivating a diverse range of plant species, including those used specifically for academic research and teaching collections.

Experience detecting signs of pests, diseases, and environmental stress on a diverse range of plant species, and implementing appropriate treatments.

Ability to communicate effectively and work collegially with diverse groups of community members, students, staff, and faculty.

Commitment to ongoing learning and professional development.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in calculating and applying fertilizers and soil amendments.

Experience operating and troubleshooting greenhouse and growth chamber control systems.

Experience acting as the curator of a living collection in an academic or research setting, providing accurate taxonomical information to community members, students, staff, and faculty.

Education

An Associates degree in biology, botany, horticulture, or plant sciences; or an equivalent combination of education and experience in commercial greenhouses or university research settings is required.

A Bachelors degree in biology, botany, horticulture, or plant science is preferred.

Certifications

Current NYS Pesticide Applicator / Technician certification, or willingness to obtain this certification within the first year of employment is required.

Offer Determination

When extending an offer, Colgate University considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, candidates work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and organizational considerations.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stoop, bend, stand for long periods of time in greenhouse environments with high heat and humidity.

Ability to lift a maximum of 30 pounds.

Responsible for following all procedures to conduct work activities in a safe manner including but not limited to wearing PPE required for specific duties and safe handling of chemicals as outlined by University policies and/or the supervisor. Responsible for immediately reporting any unsafe conditions to the supervisor and/or Environmental Health and Safety.

Other Information

Work visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Benefits

Colgate University offers a competitive benefits package, with most benefits effective on the date of hire. Highlights include: medical, dental, vision, retirement contributions, paid time off, paid family leave, health & wellness, continuing education and professional development. We also offer unique perks, such as free parking, gym discounts, bookstore savings, athletic tickets, and access to cultural and recreational facilities. Explore the full benefits package on our Benefits page.

Department Statement

The Biology Department at Colgate University offers majors in Biology, Molecular Biology, Environmental Biology, and Natural Sciences with a concentration in Marine and Freshwater Science. All faculty engage undergraduates in active research programs, spanning the fields of molecular biology, cellular biology, physiology, microbiology, ecology, evolution, and genomics. There are currently four faculty members engaged in plant-based research and teaching. This position plays a key role in supporting botanical teaching and research, and also supporting student organizations and university outreach programs.

This role offers the opportunity to work closely with faculty and students across plant-based teaching and research in the fields of ecology, evolution, genetics, and physiology. It also provides an opportunity to work closely with student organizations (e.g., the Colgate Flora Society, and the Colgate Community Garden).

Accountabilities

Plant care

Ensure proper care and maintenance of plants housed in all University greenhouses and growth chambers, including propagation and…