Hourly Turfgrass Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Details
Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title
Laboratory/Technical Assistant
Posting Number
26TM0072
Department
Plant Biology
Overview
The School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, located on the George H. Cook Campus, is one of the largest schools of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. We pursue excellence in research, teaching, and outreach in areas of study that address the biological spectrum from molecules to ecosystems. Our emphasis is on both the fundamental sciences and the social and human dimensions. We offer 21 undergraduate majors, including plant and animal sciences, microbiology, biotechnology, agriculture and food systems, landscape architecture, food and nutritional sciences, ecology and evolution, marine science and oceanography, environmental sciences and meteorology, human ecology, entomology, and environmental economics.
In addition to instruction in the classroom, field, and laboratory, our students have opportunities for experiential learning on and off campus, including a growing emphasis on international experiences through short- and long-term study abroad. Students also have access to a robust program of applied research and outreach hosted by the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station laboratories, farms, business incubators, and marine stations throughout the state
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Laboratory/Technical Assistant for the Department of Plant Biology. This position reports to Primary Investigator (PI) or supervisor designated Field Researcher.
Among key duties of position are the following:

• Performs duties including watering, cutting, planting/establishing, or weeding research trials on research farms and in greenhouses.
• Helps to maintain turfgrass research areas on farm and on campus, which may include turfgrass nurseries, breeding crosses, field trials, and in greenhouses.
• Assists in proper fertilizing and propagation of breeding materials, plant tissue collection or harvest, seed harvest/preparation and weighing, and will develop and utilize various plant propagation techniques.
• Upkeeps/organizes research areas (work spaces, greenhouse work areas, office supplies, etc.).
• Assists PI or researchers in data collection and analysis.

FLSA
Nonexempt
Salary Details
$18.00 - $24.00 per hour
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:

• Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
• Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
• Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
• Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
• Life insurance coverage
• Employee discount programs

Position Status
Part Time
Working Hours
19.5 hours per week
Daily Work Shift
Day
Work Arrangement
This position requires a fully on-site work arrangement.
Payroll Designation
PeopleSoft
Terms of Appointment
Temporary Staff Appointment - Hourly
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific/technical discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and/or relevant laboratory technician or research study experience carrying out research protocols and tests, or other technical work may be substituted for the degree.

Certifications/Licenses

• A valid driver's license would be required for this position.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to work in a team environment and/or ability to work independently with minimal supervision once trained.
• Computer literacy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with plant care, or in an agricultural field or farm setting.
• Interest in/academic exposure to/knowledge of Plant Biology, Plant Breeding, or related discipline.

Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions (rainy, windy, and/or cold temperatures).
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Plant tissue collection for analysis in a laboratory setting.

Special Conditions

• Multiple Vacancies.
• Clean Driving Record.

Posting Details
Posting Open Date
02/25/2026
Posting Close Date
08/25/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants
Regional Campus
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Home Location Campus
Off Campus
City
Adelphia (Freehold)
State
NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements

Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement