Reports To:
Manager II, Agricultural Sciences Complex
Position Status:
Full-Time
Posted Pay Range:
$17.80 - $22.24
If you enjoy hands-on work, collaborating with faculty and students, and being part of a team that directly supports student learning and innovation, this role is for you. As a Lab Materials Specialist, you’ll play a key role in ensuring horticulture labs run smoothly and safely. You’ll maintain the tools and equipment that future landscape professionals train on, help create a clean and well-organized lab environment, and make a real impact in students’ daily learning experiences.
This position is perfect for someone who takes pride in keeping systems running, values teamwork, and wants to contribute to the success of a growing horticulture program.
Why Join CWI?
At the College of Western Idaho (CWI), you will work in a dynamic, collaborative environment where problem-solving and innovation are valued, and your contributions directly enhance the efficiency of the institution.
Key Responsibilities:
Chemical Application and Plant Health Management
• Mix and apply pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides to trees, shrubs, lawns, and botanical crops in compliance with all safety protocols and regulatory standards.
• Identify and diagnose plant and lawn diseases or pest infestations and determine appropriate treatment methods.
• Maintain an accurate and up-to-date chemical inventory, ensuring proper storage, labeling, and disposal of hazardous materials in accordance with federal and state policies.
• Participate in ongoing training related to chemical safety and application procedures to ensure compliance and safe handling practices.
Greenhouse, Garden, and Grounds Maintenance
• Collaborate with and mentor students in greenhouse and garden bed work, providing hands-on instruction and support.
• Perform routine grounds maintenance including weeding, planting, irrigation, and general landscape upkeep to support an engaging and educational environment.
• Maintain and operate irrigation systems and seasonal planting schedules, and ensure soil health through amendments and sustainable practices.
Equipment Operation, Laboratory Setup, and Maintenance
• Operate and maintain a variety of horticulture and groundskeeping equipment, including hand tools, trucks, and farm implements; perform basic troubleshooting and minor repairs.
• Set, activate, and adjust machinery mechanisms as needed; detect and report equipment malfunctions promptly.
• Prepare, set up, and tear down horticulture labs by gathering materials, organizing supplies, and ensuring cleanliness and order per lab setup instructions.
• Track and maintain inventory of lab and field equipment and supplies, ensuring tools are clean, functional, and readily available for use.
Safety, Compliance, and Student Mentorship
• Ensure all workspaces—including labs, greenhouses, and grounds—are clean, safe, and in compliance with institutional, state, and federal safety standards.
• Wash and sanitize lab tools, glassware, and surfaces; properly identify and dispose of hazardous chemicals.
• Mentor horticulture student employees, including work-study participants, in the safe use of chemicals, tools, and equipment, while modeling professionalism and work ethic.
• Collaborate with faculty to assess student staffing needs and provide appropriate training and support for hands-on learning experiences.
What We're Looking For:
• High School Diploma or GED and two (2) years of work experience with landscape construction, maintenance, and irrigation, or
AAS in related field preferred
• Current, valid driver’s license
• Knowledge of preventative maintenance and minor repair of equipment.
• Idaho Professional Applicators License or ability to license upon hiring
• Skill in landscape construction techniques
• Knowledge of irrigation systems and their components
• Knowledge and skills in using standard materials, tools, and equipment required in arboriculture and landscape trade. • Ability to adapt to additional equipment as assigned.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions and practices necessary in the arbor and landscape industry
• Ability to lift 45 lbs.
Added consideration is given to candidates with the following additional knowledge and skills:
• Knowledge of plant and tree anatomy, physiology, and growth requirements; ability to identify a variety of plant material
• Knowledge of plant diseases, insect problems, and appropriate control measures
• Knowledge and ability to apply proper pruning principles
WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Within the lab environment, there is exposure to odorous chemicals, and the noise level is generally quiet but does vary based upon activity. May be required to lift chemical containers and laboratory equipment weighing up to 45 lbs.
Additional Instructions for Applicants:
*A resume is required. A cover letter is preferred in addition to a resume.
**Lab Materials Specialists are assigned to support labs outside of traditional campus hours and at different locations. This position is currently needed to cover the Tuesday through Friday (9-hour days) and Saturday (4-hour day) assignment but is subject to change.
***Most positions at CWI are in-person and based on campus. While some roles may allow up to two remote workdays per week, eligibility for remote work is determined on a case-by-case basis at the hiring manager's discretion. All candidates must reside within, or be willing to relocate to, a reasonable commuting distance from CWI. Employment visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Benefits:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other applicable legally protected status.
