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Assistant Apiary Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Purdue University

Student - Beekeeping

Hammond, IN · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Hammond Job Summary The Student Assistant - Beekeeping supports university apiary operations through hands-on care and management of honey bee colonies. This role is designed for undergraduate and/or ...

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Assistant Apiary information

What are Assistant Apiaries?

Assistant Apiaries are entry-level or support positions in beekeeping operations. Individuals in this role help manage bee colonies, maintain hives, harvest honey, and monitor bee health under the supervision of a lead beekeeper or apiary manager. They may also assist with tasks such as feeding bees, repairing equipment, and ensuring the environment is suitable for bee activity. This position is ideal for those interested in learning about apiculture and gaining hands-on experience in the field.

What are some common challenges faced by an Assistant Apiary and how can they be overcome?

Assistant Apiaries often encounter challenges such as managing bee health, dealing with unpredictable weather, and ensuring safety while working with live bees. Effective communication with the lead beekeeper and staying updated on best practices for hive maintenance are crucial for overcoming these obstacles. Regular monitoring of hives, prompt identification of diseases or pests, and using protective equipment can help mitigate risks and ensure a productive work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Apiarist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Apiarist, you need a basic understanding of beekeeping practices, hive management, and honey extraction, often supported by experience or training in agriculture or biology. Familiarity with beekeeping equipment, safety gear, and possibly certification from local agricultural organizations is valuable. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to work collaboratively in outdoor settings are important soft skills. These competencies ensure the health of bee colonies, safe honey production, and effective support of lead apiarists in maintaining productive apiaries.

What is the difference between Assistant Apiary vs Apiary Technician?

AspectAssistant ApiaryApiary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some experience in beekeepingHigh school diploma; additional certifications in beekeeping or related fields
Work EnvironmentBeekeeping sites, apiaries, outdoor settingsApiaries, research facilities, outdoor and indoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageBeekeeping farms, hobbyist groups, agricultural companiesResearch institutions, commercial apiaries, agricultural industries
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level beekeeping rolesTechnical beekeeping roles requiring specialized skills

Assistant Apiary roles typically involve basic beekeeping tasks and require minimal certifications, focusing on assisting with hive maintenance and observation. Apiary Technicians often have additional certifications and perform more technical duties, including hive health assessments and data collection. Both roles are essential in beekeeping operations but differ in complexity and specialization.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Apiary jobs in Indiana? For Assistant Apiary jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Apiary jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Apiary jobs in Indiana are:
Assistant Apiary jobs near you
Student - Beekeeping

Student - Beekeeping

Purdue University

Hammond, IN • On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

263rd of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Req Id: 42355
Job Title: Student - Beekeeping
City: Hammond
Job Description:
Job Summary
The Student Assistant - Beekeeping supports university apiary operations through hands-on care and management of honey bee colonies. This role is designed for undergraduate and/or graduate students seeking applied experience related to agriculture, biology, environmental science, entomology, sustainability, or related disciplines. The position combines practical beekeeping skills with opportunities to support research, instruction, and outreach initiatives.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Assist with regular hive inspections, including assessment of brood patterns, queen health, colony strength, and food stores
  • Support seasonal apiary activities such as feeding, swarm prevention, splitting colonies, and winterization
  • Participate in honey harvesting, extraction, bottling, and labeling following food safety standards
  • Monitor and assist with management of pests and diseases (e.g., Varroa mites), under supervision
  • Collect, record, and organize basic apiary data for research projects, coursework, or extension programs
  • Maintain apiary equipment, tools, and facilities in a clean, safe, and organized manner
  • Assist faculty, staff personnel with demonstrations, class activities, workshops, or outreach events
  • Assist in achieving and maintaining Bee Campus USA status including providing recommendations to Universities Director of Grounds
  • Follow university safety guidelines, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

Education
  • Current PNW Student

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Enrollment as an undergraduate or graduate student at Purdue Northwest University
  • Willingness to work outdoors and around live bees
  • Ability to follow safety protocols and work responsibly as part of a team
  • Strong dependability, initiative, and attention to detail
  • Ability to lift up to 60 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation
  • Valid drivers license as it applies to Purdue standards

Preferred Qualifications
  • Academic or personal interest in biology or environmental science
  • Coursework or experience related to beekeeping, entomology, agriculture, or field research
  • Interest in undergraduate research, graduate research, or extension/outreach work
  • Basic skills in data collection, observation, or record keeping

Additional Information
Physical & Working Conditions
  • Work performed primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Exposure to bee stings and environmental elements (protective clothing provided)
  • Requires standing, bending, lifting, and walking on uneven ground
  • Lifting heavy objects

Time Commitment
  • 5-20 hours per week depending on seasonal differences in schedule needs
  • Flexible scheduling to accommodate class schedules
  • Occasional early mornings or weekends during peak beekeeping seasons

Educational Benefits
  • Hands-on experience in applied apiculture and pollinator management

FLSA Status
Non-Exempt

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