POSITION SUMMARY

Under the supervision of the Labor/Project coordinator, the Seasonal Operations Aide responsibilities will be to provide hands-on support for all typical station greenhouse and field activities.

This position will provide support to programs using the Sun Prairie station in order to help fulfill their missions. Programs currently using the facility include sweet corn, snap bean, tomato, pumpkin, squash, and pathology. This role will be expected to assist programs with greenhouse and field production activities including planting, weeding, plot management, pollinations, harvest and data collection for yield trials, as well as dry seed harvest. Position will be expected to work closely with the Farm Manager to complete day to day operational tasks related to the management of crops currently growing on site. Selected individual will be heavily involved in harvest and shelling of dry seed for both sweet corn and snap bean – both from the open field and greenhouse settings. During the summer, will be expected to lead small crews to help with regular plot maintenance activities – including staking, weeding, pollinations, and pathogen inoculations.

• Knowledge of routine greenhouse growing practices and requirements.
• High level of manual dexterity and ability to complete tasks with a high level of accuracy required
• Must be able to perform job responsibilities and testing activities accurately and efficiently.
• Strong communication, training and supervisory skills.
• Demonstrated computer skills in Word, Excel, email programs.
• Excellent time management skills and the ability to prioritize own work and work of others in the team
• Must be able to work as a team member and also independently as this position will require weekend work often times alone.
• Have good verbal and communication skills.
• Adaptability – Ability to deal with frequent changes, delays or unexpected events. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously. Ability and willingness to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions.
• Attendance/Punctuality - Ensures work responsibilities are covered.
• Dependability - Ability to work in an independent and self-directed manner.