Horticulture Student Assistant-Sugimoto 2

University of Georgia; Tifton (GA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Horticulture Student Assistant to support agricultural research in Tifton, Georgia. The role involves assisting in laboratory and field-based studies to extend the shelf-life of fruits and vegetables. Responsibilities include data collection and entry, treatment application, and daily lab operations. Ideal candidates will have a High School Diploma with experience in agriculture or horticulture. Strong interpersonal skills and proficiency in MS Office are required. The position offers hands-on experience in a supportive research environment.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma with experience working in agriculture/horticulture.
• Prior experience in fieldwork, laboratory procedures, or postharvest quality evaluations is a plus.
• Competence in basic MS Office software applications.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field, laboratory, and storage-based research projects.
• Collect fruit from the field and analyze fruit quality data.
• Monitor and set up storage room conditions during storage.
• Assist in daily laboratory operations, including cleaning and maintenance.

Skills

Fieldwork experience

Laboratory procedures

Postharvest quality evaluations

MS Office applications

Interpersonal skills

Written and verbal skills

Education

High School Diploma

Job description

Position Details

Position Number: G/R32897P

Working Title: Horticulture Student Assistant‑Sugimoto 2

Department: CAES-Horticulture

Employment Type: Employee

Anticipated Start Date: 05/10/2026

Position Summary

The successful applicant will be responsible for assisting with fruit and vegetable quality to extend shelf‑life and agricultural product development through field, laboratory, and storage‑based research. The incumbent will assist in sample preparation in the lab and data collection for produce quality‑related analyses. The role also includes upkeep of laboratory space and requires data entry. All tasks will be performed under the direction and supervision of the lab manager.

Primary Duties (90%)

• Conduct field, laboratory, and storage‑based research projects including project set‑up, treatment applications, and data collection.
• Collect fruit from the field and analyze fruit quality data (fruit weight, color, sugar, acidity, firmness, ethylene production, respiration, disorders, etc.) in the lab.
• Treat to extend the shelf‑life of harvested products.
• Monitor and set up storage room conditions (temperature, relative humidity, O2/CO2 levels) during storage.
• Support ongoing research and ensure successful project implementation.

Secondary Duties (10%)

• Assist in daily laboratory operations, including cleaning and equipment maintenance.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma with experience working in agriculture/horticulture.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Prior experience in fieldwork, laboratory procedures, postharvest quality evaluations will be a plus.
• Competence in basic MS Office software applications.
• Strong work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to learn new skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a diverse, interdisciplinary team.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal skills.

Physical Demands

• Working in various environmental conditions (cold, hot, humid).
• Driving as needed.

EEO Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status, or other protected status.

Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR at [e-mail].

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon the completion of a background investigation, including a criminal background check, verification of credentials and employment history, and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high‑risk responsibilities.

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact Name: Tara Riner

Email: [e-mail]