OPS Sustainable Field Lab Assistant

University of Florida; Gainesville (FL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

University of Florida is seeking an OPS Sustainable Field Lab Assistant to support the UF/IFAS TREC Sustainable Field Lab in Dade. This role involves seedling production, greenhouse upkeep, and field activities across vegetables, herbs, and novel crops, with a focus on sustainable systems including high tunnels and hydroponics.

Ideal candidates will perform data collection, assist with research projects, and help organize outreach events.

Qualifications

• Ability to work outdoors under South Florida environmental conditions, including heat and humidity.
• Ability to perform physical activities associated with field and greenhouse operations.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability and willingness to perform pesticide applications as needed; pesticide applicator certification may be provided after hiring.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Support management and operation of UF/IFAS TREC Sustainable Field Lab with emphasis on sustainable vegetable and herb production and greenhouse operations.
• Perform seedling and transplant production, greenhouse maintenance, planting, irrigation, fertilization, weed and pest management, harvesting and general field maintenance.
• Assist with selection and evaluation of vegetables, herbs, crops and sustainable production systems including high tunnels and hydroponics.
• Organize field days and outreach activities, establish experiments, collect field and plant samples, record and enter data, assist with research and extension projects.

Tools

Excel

Job description

OPS Sustainable Field Lab Assistant

Job No: 541560

Work Type: Part Time

Location: Dade

Categories: Agricultural Sciences

Department: 60790000 - AG-TREC-HOMESTEAD

Job Description

Classification Title: OPS Time Limited

• Ability to work outdoors under South Florida environmental conditions, including heat and humidity.
• Ability to perform physical activities associated with field and greenhouse operations.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability and willingness to perform pesticide applications as needed; pesticide applicator certification may be provided after hiring.
• Valid driver's license.

The OPS Sustainable Field Lab Assistant will support the management and operation of the UF/IFAS TREC Sustainable Field Lab, with an emphasis on sustainable vegetable and herb production, greenhouse operations, crop and cultivar selection, and field-based extension and research activities. Responsibilities will include seedling and transplant production, greenhouse maintenance, planting, irrigation, fertilization, weed and pest management, harvesting, and general field maintenance. The position will also assist with the selection and evaluation of vegetables, herbs, specialty and underutilized crops, as well as sustainable production systems including high tunnels and hydroponics. Additional responsibilities may include organizing field days and outreach activities, establishing and maintaining experiments, collecting field and plant samples, recording and entering data, and assisting with research and extension projects.

Expected Salary

$15.00-$18.00 an hour commensurate with education and experience

Required Qualifications

• Ability to work outdoors under South Florida environmental conditions, including heat and humidity.
• Ability to perform physical activities associated with field and greenhouse operations.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability and willingness to perform pesticide applications as needed; pesticide applicator certification may be provided after hiring.
• Valid driver's license.

Preferred

• Experience in vegetable and herb production, greenhouse management, or field research.
• Knowledge of sustainable agricultural practices and crop production systems.
• Experience with data collection, Excel, and basic computer applications.
• Experience with high tunnel, hydroponic, or other protected-culture systems.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Health Assessment Required: No

Applications Close: 30 October 2026

Our Commitment

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the U.S. The University of Florida is a public institution and is subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392- 2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.