Greenhouse Student Assistant - ATI

The Ohio State University; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Part time

Job summary

The Ohio State University is seeking a Greenhouse Student Assistant for the ATI Plant Science Engineering Technologies department. The role supports weekend waterer duties, watering, environmental monitoring, and basic crop maintenance at OSU Wooster Campus greenhouses.

Work involves independent task execution with adherence to greenhouse protocols and IPM practices. Candidates should have prior greenhouse or plant-care experience, be reliable and punctual, and capable of following instructions.

Qualifications

• Experience in greenhouse, horticulture, agriculture, or plant-care preferred.
• Basic knowledge of plant watering and care practices preferred.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Reliable, responsible, and punctual.
• Basic computer skills helpful but not required.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Must have reliable mode of transportation.

Responsibilities

• Water greenhouse crops and monitor health.
• Check greenhouse environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, irrigation).
• Apply fertilizers as directed and assist with preparing fertilizer solutions.
• Perform general greenhouse maintenance (floors, tools, debris).
• Assist with planting, transplanting, and basic crop care.
• Follow IPM practices and report pest/disease issues.
• Complete tasks independently while communicating with greenhouse staff.

Skills

Greenhouse operations

Plant care

Independent worker

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Reliable transportation

Job description

Job Title:Greenhouse Student Assistant - ATIDepartment:FAES | ATI Plant Science Engineering Technologies-JM

The Weekend Greenhouse Waterer is responsible for monitoring and maintaining greenhouse crops during weekends and university breaks to ensure plant health and quality. This position requires an individual who is dependable, observant, and capable of working independently while following established greenhouse protocols. The employee will assist with watering, environmental monitoring, facility upkeep, and basic crop maintenance in the OSU Wooster Campus greenhouses.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Water greenhouse crops according.
• Monitor plant health and report signs of water stress, nutrient deficiencies, pests, diseases, or other crop concerns.
• Check greenhouse environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, and irrigation system performance.
• Apply fertilizers as directed and assist with preparing fertilizer solutions when needed.
• Perform general greenhouse maintenance, including:
  • Sweeping greenhouse floors and hallways
  • Cleaning work areas
  • Washing pots and trays
  • Emptying trash and debris
• Assist with planting, transplanting, and basic crop care as needed.
• Help maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Follow integrated pest management (IPM) practices and report pest or disease issues.
• Complete assigned tasks independently while communicating concerns to greenhouse staff.

Qualifications

• Previous greenhouse, horticulture, agriculture, or plant-care experience preferred.
• Basic knowledge of plant watering and care practices preferred.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Reliable, responsible, and punctual.
• Basic computer skills are helpful but not required.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Must have reliable mode of transportation.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and carry items throughout the work shift.
• Ability to lift to 30 pounds.
• Ability to work in varying greenhouse environmental conditions, including heat and humidity.
• Ability to safely operate watering equipment and basic greenhouse tools.

Working Conditions

Work is performed primarily in greenhouse facilities on the OSU Wooster Campus. Duties may involve exposure to varying temperatures, humidity levels, soil, fertilizers, and greenhouse production materials.

Professional Expectations

• Demonstrate professionalism and dependability.
• Exercise good judgment and take ownership of assigned responsibilities.
• Provide excellent customer service to faculty, staff, students, and visitors.
• Represent The Ohio State University, ATI, and CFAES with integrity and professionalism while supporting the university's mission and shared values.

Schedule

• Weekend shifts during the academic year, summer, holiday periods, and university breaks as assigned.
• Typical responsibilities include checking greenhouse crops, watering, monitoring environmental conditions, and maintaining facility cleanliness during non-business hours.

Additional Information:Location:Skou Hall (0643)Position Type:Temporary (Fixed Term)Scheduled Hours:10Shift:Weekend Shift

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.