Student - Beekeeping

The Student Assistant – Beekeeping supports university apiary operations through hands-on care and management of honey bee colonies. This role is designed for undergraduate and/or graduate students seeking applied experience related to agriculture, biology, environmental science, entomology, sustainability, or related disciplines. The position combines practical beekeeping skills with opportunities to support research, instruction, and outreach initiatives.

• Assist with regular hive inspections, including assessment of brood patterns, queen health, colony strength, and food stores
• Support seasonal apiary activities such as feeding, swarm prevention, splitting colonies, and winterization
• Participate in honey harvesting, extraction, bottling, and labeling following food safety standards
• Monitor and assist with management of pests and diseases (e.g., Varroa mites), under supervision
• Collect, record, and organize basic apiary data for research projects, coursework, or extension programs
• Maintain apiary equipment, tools, and facilities in a clean, safe, and organized manner
• Assist faculty, staff personnel with demonstrations, class activities, workshops, or outreach events
• Assist in achieving and maintaining Bee Campus USA status including providing recommendations to Universities Director of Grounds
• Follow university safety guidelines, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Current PNW Student

Required Qualifications

• Enrollment as an undergraduate or graduate student at Purdue Northwest University
• Willingness to work outdoors and around live bees
• Ability to follow safety protocols and work responsibly as part of a team
• Strong dependability, initiative, and attention to detail
• Ability to lift up to 60 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation
• Valid drivers license as it applies to Purdue standards

Preferred Qualifications

• Academic or personal interest in biology or environmental science
• Coursework or experience related to beekeeping, entomology, agriculture, or field research
• Interest in undergraduate research, graduate research, or extension/outreach work
• Basic skills in data collection, observation, or record keeping

Physical & Working Conditions

• Work performed primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Exposure to bee stings and environmental elements (protective clothing provided)
• Requires standing, bending, lifting, and walking on uneven ground
• Lifting heavy objects

Time Commitment

• 5–20 hours per week depending on seasonal differences in schedule needs
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate class schedules
• Occasional early mornings or weekends during peak beekeeping seasons

Educational Benefits

• Hands-on experience in applied apiculture and pollinator management