Plant Growth Facilities Technician — Part-Time, Work-Study

Augsburg University; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 19,000 - 27,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Rate of pay: $16.45/hour

Minnesota Sick and Safe Time

Minnesota Paid Family and MedicalLeave

Job summary

The Plant Growth Facilities Technician at Augsburg University supports the Biology Department by maintaining a living plant collection and climate-controlled growth spaces, enabling teaching and research activities. You will work closely with the Curator to ensure plants remain healthy and growth spaces function optimally for daily operations.

The role requires weekend availability, work-study eligibility, and a passion for botany and plant conservation.

Qualifications

• Be a current Biology, Biochemistry, or Environmental and Sustainability Science major.
• Be work-study eligible.
• Have completed at least two semesters of Biology coursework.
• Interest in botany, horticulture, plant conservation, or related field.
• Able to climb ladders, lift light loads, and maneuver in tight spaces.
• Available to work weekends.
• Excellent communication and observation skills.
• Adhere to lab safety practices and undergo provided lab safety training.

Responsibilities

• Daily watering of plants in the greenhouse and growth rooms.
• Weekly application of fertilizer.
• Host Augsburg community during Greenhouse First Friday monthly.
• Seed germination, potting, pruning, and pest control as directed.
• General cleaning and maintenance of Plant Growth Facilities (greenhouse, headhouse, growth rooms).
• Quarterly algae suppression treatment of greenhouse floor.
• Weekly emptying of sediment traps in headhouse.
• Plant feeder plants for aphid colony and maintain aphid growth chamber hygiene.
• Frequent communication with Curator Dr. Van Eck and Biology Lab Manager to maintain continuity of care.

Skills

Weekend availability

Good communication

Observation skills

Ladder climbing

Lab safety practices

Plant care

Education

Biology major

Biochemistry major

Environmental and Sustainability Science major

Job description

The Plant Growth Facilities Technician at Augsburg University supports the Biology Department by maintaining a living plant collection and climate-controlled growth spaces, enabling teaching and research activities. You will work closely with the Curator to ensure plants remain healthy and growth spaces function optimally for daily operations.

The role requires weekend availability, work-study eligibility, and a passion for botany and plant conservation.