Indoor Farming Student Research Assistant

Kansas State University Olathe Campus is looking to fill two Indoor Farming Student Research Assistant positions. These positions work directly with the Project Director and other K-State Olathe staff to support the greenhouse and growth chamber facility's needs. The Indoor Farming Student Research Assistants will enjoy flexible scheduling, with an average commitment of 2-3 hours per day on weekdays, and occasional weekend availability required. These are temporary, part-time positions offering an opportunity for students seeking hands-on experience in indoor crop production.

Diversity and Inclusion:
Kansas State University embraces diversity and inclusion. The university actively seeks individuals who foster a collegial environment and cooperative interactions with coworkers, students, and others. The University is dedicated to promoting the Principles of Community.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:
The Indoor Farming Student Research Assistants will work directly with the Project Director and other K-State Olathe staff to support the greenhouse and growth chamber facility's needs. Duties include:

• Set up indoor farming facilities according to provided guidelines.
• Managing all areas of crop growth to include, sowing seeds, transplanting, training  and harvesting plants
• Fertigating crops including watering, fertilizing and nutrient management. This will require careful measurement of pH and EC of growing media/hydroponic fertilizer. Calculating rate and mixing of fertilizer.
• Assist with basic research work including data recording, growth parameter measurements, plant sample collection and pre-treatment for nutrient/phytochemical measurements.
• Perform daily maintenance of growth chamber facilities and greenhouse. Duties will include cleaning and organizing equipment, disposing of waste.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:
Must be at least 16 years of age. During the academic year, must be enrolled in a high school or post-secondary education program other than Kansas State University. During the summer months, must have been enrolled the previous semester.

Preferred Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience in a greenhouse or other control environment agriculture facility preferred.
• Work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends.

Other Requirements:
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.

Special Instructions to Applicants:
Questions regarding the position can be directed to Teng Yang, Teaching Assistant Professor, Controlled Environment Agriculture at tengy@ksu.edu. An interview with the advisor will be conducted to ensure alignment between your qualifications and the expectations of the position.

To be considered please submit a cover letter describing why you are interested in this position, resume and one work reference to Dr. Yang or Roberta Robinson, Human Resources Manager, at robertar@ksu.edu.

Screening of Applications: Begins immediately

Salary Range: $12.00 - $17.00/hr

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.