Laboratory Technician Senior

Job Summary The Martin‑Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment’s Department of Horticulture seeks a Laboratory Technician Senior. The Lab Technician will be responsible for both instructed and self‑directed horticultural work maintaining fruit and vegetable research crops. The work requires outside activity throughout the year in all weather and includes physical labor such as bending and lifting, climbing ladders, walking, and standing for extended periods of time. This position requires the ability to drive or operate a truck, utility vehicles, mowing, and other power equipment. Additional requirements include operating and maintaining sprayers, along with mixing and applying chemical pesticides. Technology competency includes basic computer skills, operating data sampling and field labeling equipment. The individual is expected to work well with a team of horticulturists; follow research protocols; fulfill crop production needs such as planting, watering, fertilizing, weeding, pruning, training, canopy management, pest control, harvest, etc.; assist in the collection of field data and sample processing; maintain tools and equipment in working order; clean and organize orchard buildings and field office/laboratory; run software to create plant labels and perform data entry as directed; perform duties to maintain professional standards. Responsibilities Perform horticultural work maintaining fruit and vegetable research crops. Engage in outside activity year‑round in diverse weather conditions. Use trucks, tractors, mowing equipment and sprayers for field operations. Apply chemical pesticides following safety protocols. Operate basic computer and field data sampling equipment. Assist in data collection and sample processing. Maintain tools, equipment, orchard buildings, and field office/laboratory. Create plant labels and perform data entry with prescribed software. Maintain professional standards in all work. Qualifications Valid Kentucky driver’s license; five years of driving experience preferred. Driver or operator of tractors, mowing equipment, trucks, and utility vehicles. Knowledge of operating sprayers and pesticide application. Basic computer skills, research data entry, and labeling equipment operation. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, stand and walk for extended periods. Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions. Preferred Education / Experience Pesticide Applicator’s License preferred. Drivers license with five years of driving experience. Physical Requirements Work outside throughout the year in adverse weather (heat, humidity, cold). Bending, lifting, and moving objects up to 50 lbs.; climbing ladders while carrying loads; walking on slippery and uneven surfaces; standing for long periods of time. Shift Monday–Friday; 8:00 am – 4:30 pm (37.5 hours/week); may require evenings/weekends based on research needs. Location UK Research and Education Center in Princeton, KY. Deadline to Apply 05/18/2026 EEO Statement The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status. Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre‑employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen. #J-18808-Ljbffr