Horticulture Summer Student Worker (Temporary / Casual position - 67 work days or less)

This is a temporary seasonal position. The position is open as soon as school is out (May/June) and will continue until school starts (August/September). Start and end dates are flexible based on University/College schedules. The person in this position normally works 40 hours/week Monday through Friday, 8:00am4:30pm. Working hours may be adjusted due to weather conditions and special events.

This position has the responsibility of assisting in preparation, planting, weeding, culture and care, harvesting, and data collection of annual and perennial flowers, small fruit, high/low tunnel research, hardy shrub roses, ornamental and plant materials, research plots and landscaping, and grounds maintenance at the West Central Research and Outreach Center. Other tasks may be assigned as needed.

Job Duties / Tasks

• Assist in care of plant trials and landscape areas under the direction of our Researcher II
• Participate in plot layout, tillage, and preparation for planting
• Assist in care of research and display garden plant materials by watering, fertilizing, weeding, pesticide applications (non-restricted), hoeing, staking, pruning, and data collection
• Assist in plot harvest by hand harvesting and weighing experimental plot materials
• Operate power equipment as required on plots and grounds and perform daily required maintenance. On-site safety and training provided for all equipment
• Assist in maintenance of work areas or buildings and observe safety regulations and procedures

Location

• University of Minnesota West Central Research and Outreach Center, Morris, MN

Minimum Employee Qualifications

• College student with some interest in horticulture, plant science, or agriculture (18+, recent graduates may apply)
• Current driver's license required
• Background check

Selection Criteria

• Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions
• Capable of working in a team with coworkers and/or volunteers and individually
• Interest in horticulture science research
• Must be able to work in wide range of outdoor conditions including heat, humidity, wind, and rain
• Ability to sit, kneel, stand, and bend frequently

NOTE: The following University holidays are unpaid for this position: May 25 (Memorial Day), June19 (Juneteenth), July 3 (Independence Day observed) and September 7 (Labor Day) 2026

Pay Range: $15.25 per hour or more; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

Application deadline is April 10, 2026, or until all positions are filled.

For more information or to apply contact:
Emily Moore
UMN West Central Research and Outreach Center
46352 State Highway 329, Morris, MN 56267
e-mail: kolbe046@umn.edu
phone: 320-589-1711 ext. 2121

Limited housing is available upon request.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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