Agricultural Assistant I

The University of Florida's Plant Science Research and Education Unit (PSREU) is seeking a dependable and motivated Agricultural Assistant to help support research and crop production activities on our working research farm in Citra, Florida.

In this role, you'll work alongside farm staff, researchers, faculty, and students to help grow and maintain a variety of crops including vegetables, fruit crops, turfgrass, and ornamental plants. This position offers a wide range of hands-on agricultural experiences and is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors and being active throughout the day.

What You'll Do

• Plant, maintain, and harvest research crops and field trials.
• Perform a variety of farm and field tasks including staking, tying, pruning, weeding, mowing, greenhouse support, and general crop care.
• Assist with installing, monitoring, and maintaining irrigation systems.
• Help monitor crop health and identify potential issues related to pests, irrigation, nutrition, or plant growth.
• Support research activities by assisting with field trials and helping maintain high-quality research plots.
• Assist with fertilizer and pesticide application activities while following safety procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Operate farm vehicles, tractors, and other agricultural equipment used in daily operations.
• Help prepare fields, plant crops, harvest produce, and maintain research areas and farm grounds.
• Perform routine maintenance on equipment, buildings, and facilities.
• Assist with special projects, field days, educational events, and emergency response activities as needed.

Work Environment

This position is primarily outdoors and involves physical, hands-on work in Florida's agricultural environment. Candidates should be comfortable working in varying weather conditions and performing activities such as walking, standing, bending, kneeling, lifting, and operating equipment.

Typical work hours are Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Occasional overtime, weekend work, holiday duties, and emergency response activities may be required during critical farming operations or weather events.

$15.80 per hour

• High school diploma or equivalent and relevant agricultural, farming, horticultural, irrigation, landscape, or turf experience.
• Experience with crop production, irrigation systems, and general farm operations.
• Familiarity with tractors, farm equipment, and agricultural tools.
• Knowledge of fertilizer and pesticide application practices; ability to obtain a Florida Restricted Use Pesticide License.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume. 

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

This position is eligible for veteran’s preference. If you are claiming veteran’s preference, please upload a copy of your DD 214 Member Copy 4 with your application for consideration. See our Veteran's Preference Page for more specific information.