OPS Biological Sciences Technician (Plant Pathology)

OPS Biological Sciences Technician (Plant Pathology) Job no: 540426 Work type: Temp Part-Time Location: St. Lucie Categories: Biology/Life Science, Grant or Research Administration Department: 60754300 - AG-GCREC-PLANT PATHOLOGY Position Duration: Part-time, 3 days per week (typically 24 hours per week) Job Description Located in UF / Fort Pierce, St. Lucie County. This OPS technician will support plant pathology research projects targeting vegetable systems and other regional crops. The role focuses on monitoring insect disease vectors, processing field samples, evaluating plant disease severity, and maintaining research plots, including planting and establishment onward. The position requires meticulous field data collection, plot biosecurity, and the ability to work in varying Florida agricultural weather conditions. The position also requires an ability to precisely follow sample processing protocols. Responsibilities Vector Monitoring and Insect Scouting: Conduct field insect population surveys across diverse vegetable crops in field experiments. Inspect host plants and collect data from physical sticky traps to track known plant disease vectors (e.g., whiteflies and thrips). Perform accurate counts and digitally log vector population levels. Planting and maintenance of experimental vegetable plots, including seed planting, transplanting seedlings, hand-weeding, applying fertilizer, and installing row covers or stakes to maintain healthy plant environments. Organize botanical, soil, or insect samples directly at field sites. Screen diverse crops for visual disease symptoms (e.g., blights, mildews, wilts, or viral mosaics), and log sample data and metadata onto physical sheets or mobile field applications. Participate in occasional day trips to external research locations or commercial fields to collect collaborative data sets and monitor regional disease outbreaks. Execute specific field data collection and strict tool sanitation protocols independently without constant direct oversight. Work outdoors in Florida under varying weather conditions. Qualifications Experience in field data collection and tool sanitation protocols. Comfort working outdoors in Florida. Ability to work part-time 3 days per week. Compensation $21.00 per hour (This position does not qualify for benefits). EEO Statement The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr University Of Florida