Volunteer Weed Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Details
Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title
Seasonal Agricultural Workers - Turf Weed Science Program
Posting Number
26TM0073
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 Seasonal Agricultural Workers for the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences. This position supports the Turfgrass Weed Science Program as an Agricultural Research Assistant, contributing to field, greenhouse, and laboratory research and plot maintenance. The role plays a key part in advancing research and extension efforts aimed at educating industry professionals and land managers on best practices for sustainable weed management. Work will support research that examines weed ecology in turfgrass systems, herbicide efficacy, integrated and non-chemical weed control strategies, and how turfgrass management influences weed competitiveness and herbicide performance. A primary focus is developing impactful research that shapes best management practices for sustainable and effective weed control that ultimately reduces reliance on herbicides.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:

• Assists with experiment setup and treatment application in field, greenhouse, and lab studies.
• Collects, manages, and processes research data to support ongoing studies.
• Maintains field and greenhouse research areas, including tasks such as equipment operation, watering, weeding, mowing, planting/seeding, and scouting for weeds or turf conditions.

FLSA
Nonexempt
Salary Details
$20 - $25.00 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
Full Time
Working Hours
40
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

• High school/vocational school education or equivalent experience.

Certifications/Licenses

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

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to work independently once trained.
• Interest in plants or related discipline.
• High attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications
Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Ability to work outside in all weather conditions.
• Work locations will include Cook Campus and Hort. Farm No. 2 in New Brunswick, and the Adelphia Research Farm in Freehold.
• Ability to transport a university vehicle to research locations.

Special Conditions

• Clean Driving Record.
• Multiple Vacancies.

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
Cook (RU-New Brunswick)
City
New Brunswick
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