Agricultural Assistant — Field & Greenhouse Research

University of Florida IFAS is hiring a full-time OPS Agricultural Assistant at the North Florida Research and Education Center–Suwannee Valley in Live Oak. The assistant supports crop and water research in field plots, greenhouses, hydroponic systems, and cooperating commercial farms. What you will do • Plant, maintain, and harvest field and greenhouse research plots • Support trials involving row crops, vegetables, hydroponics, and irrigation or nutrient management • Collect soil, plant-tissue, water, pest, and other research samples according to project protocols • Record plot observations and measurements carefully and enter or organize research data • Prepare supplies, labels, tools, and equipment for sampling and field work • Coordinate access and work timing with cooperating farms and research staff • Help maintain clean, safe research areas and properly handle plant material and samples • Assist with field days, demonstrations, and other producer-facing educational events Qualifications and conditions Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license. A high school diploma plus one year of related agricultural experience is preferred. The role suits someone who can follow detailed protocols, work reliably with a research team, keep accurate records, and complete physical outdoor tasks in Florida heat as well as greenhouse conditions. Pay is $16 per hour. This is a full-time, time-limited OPS appointment rather than a permanent university staff position. The official application deadline is August 3, 2026 at 11:55 p.m. Eastern. Apply through the University of Florida's direct careers page and include all materials requested in the announcement.