Agricultural Assistant II

University of Florida; Hillsborough Township (NJ); On-site; USD 23,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Florida is seeking an Agricultural Assistant II to support crop maintenance and related field operations on the research farm. The role involves assisting with planting, staking, irrigation, fertilizer application, and harvesting of research crops.

The ideal candidate will work closely with faculty and staff, operate farm equipment safely, and maintain field plots according to protocol. The position emphasizes safety and adaptability in a dynamic farm environment.

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.
• Pesticide license preferred (must obtain within 3 months and maintain)

Responsibilities

• Assist in crop maintenance activities including planting, staking, and harvesting of research crops.
• Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of work areas; assist in routine repair of irrigation systems.

Skills

Farm equipment operation

Safety awareness

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Pesticide license (preferred)

Job description

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.

Classification Title

Agricultural Assistant II

Job Description

Crop Maintenance

• Assist in punching holes for tomatoes, strawberries, or any other needs. 2. Assist in staking and tying tomatoes 3. Assist in calibration of spray equipment 4. Responsible for spraying herbicides, and pesticides as requested 5. Assist in planting different crops 6. Obtain within 3 months and maintain pesticide applicator license.

Maintenance Operation

• Assist in routine repair of the different types of irrigation systems, including filters. 2. Assist in cleaning of equipment and work areas 3. Responsible for cleanliness, orderliness and maintenance of all working areas 4. Assist in preventative maintenance of tractors, state vehicles, and farm equipment. 5. Any unscheduled work related to field.

Land Preparation

• Assist in land preparation, i.e., disking, harrowing, rototilling 2. Assist in bedding, mulching before planting 3. Assist in removing the plastic mulch, twine, and stakes from the fields at the end of the season

Harvesting

• Assist in the harvest of research crops 2. Assist in grading the crops after the harvest, and weighing of the fruits.

Ideal Candidate Will Have

Familiarity with the farm equipment: knowledge, and skills to operate adequately, and safely (i.e. farm tractors and attached equipment, farm trucks, and motorized sprayers).

Stand and walk for extended or continuous periods of time.

Bend and stretch several times during the course of the day.

Ability to work with faculty and other members of the Research Center staff

Has a working knowledge of field plot research procedures.

Able to recognize potential safety problems and correct them and to practice safety personally

Flexible enough to change work methods if asked

Ability to anticipate problems, inform supervisor of the situation, and take appropriate and timely action.

Demonstrate commitment to contributing to a respectful and caring community for all, including individuals of diverse backgrounds, experiences, races, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientation, and perspectives.

Expected Salary

$17-$19/ per hour commensurate with education and experience

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

Pesticide License preferred (must obtain within 3 months and maintain)

This position is eligible for veteran’s preference.

If you are claiming veteran’s preference, please upload a copy of your DD 214 Member Copy 4 with your application for consideration.

Health Assessment Required

Yes