Horticultural Technician

Western University • Full-time • London, ON, CA • 1d ago

Classification & Regular Hours

Hours per Week: 37.5

Level: O

Please note, this position is a full-time sessional opportunity working from February to November each year.

About Western

Since 1878, Western University has been committed to serving our communities through the pursuit of academic excellence and by providing students, faculty, and community members with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social, and cultural growth. We seek excellent students, faculty, and staff to join us in what has become known as the "Western Experience" - an opportunity to contribute to a better world through the development of new knowledge, new abilities, new connections, and new ways to make a difference.

About Us

Environmental Sciences Western (ESW) is a Faculty of Science-operated 82-acre field station located approximately 14 km north of the main Western campus. The field station is used for carrying out environmental inter- and multi-disciplinary related research by faculty members, postdoctoral scholars, and students from the Departments of Biology, Geology, Physics and Astronomy and Engineering along with external users/stakeholders such as Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the ministry of the Environment, A&L Laboratories Canada, and the Upper Thames Conservation Authority.

Responsibilities

The Horticultural Technician works collaboratively to support optimal conditions for the cultivation and management of plant material used in teaching, research, and outreach activities at the field station and greenhouse facilities. The role assists in the establishment, maintenance, and monitoring of research plots and plant production, ensuring accurate data collection and adherence to agricultural best practices. The position provides technical guidance and training to students, staff, and users on horticultural practices, equipment operation, and safety procedures, and supports faculty and users in implementing research activities. The Horticultural Technician carries out day-to-day operational requirements, including ground and site maintenance, equipment upkeep, supply acquisition, and compliance-related activities. Working under general direction, the role supports the effective functioning of the field station by maintaining accessibility and safety standards, addressing routine operational issues, and escalating more complex matters as required.

Qualifications

Education:

2-year community college diploma in Agriculture, Farm Management, Botany Science, or Environmental Science
Bachelor of Science in a related field preferred

Experience:

2 years of agricultural, farming or horticultural experience in a related environment

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Working knowledge of horticultural and agricultural principles and practices, including plant propagation, soil management, crop production, and integrated pest management
Basic understanding of research plot setup, maintenance, and data collection processes
Ability to assess plant health and identify common pests, diseases, and environmental stressors, and respond in accordance with established protocols
Knowledge of the safe handling, application, and storage of fertilizers, pesticides, and other agricultural inputs in accordance with applicable legislation and safety standards
Knowledge of workplace safety practices, including use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe equipment operation, and adherence to institutional and regulatory requirements
Ability to operate and perform routine maintenance on agricultural and horticultural equipment (e.g., seeders, sprayers, spreaders, small-plot research equipment)
Mechanical aptitude to troubleshoot minor equipment issues and assist with maintenance of field station and greenhouse infrastructure
Demonstrated ability to accurately collect, record, and maintain research and environmental data
Ability to plan, prioritize, and complete tasks within seasonal and time-sensitive agricultural cycles
Strong organizational skills to support inventory management, supplies, and operational logistics
Ability to provide instruction and guidance to students and users on equipment use, field techniques, and safety procedures
Effective interpersonal and communication skills to interact with faculty, students, staff, and external users
Ability to work independently on routine tasks and exercise judgment in resolving day-to-day operational issues, with the ability to identify when to escalate concerns
Ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions, including outdoor field settings and greenhouse environments, and perform physically demanding tasks
Intermediate computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite for data entry, record-keeping, and communication

Union Statement

Western welcomes applications from all qualified individuals; however, it is the university's policy to give first consideration to all qualified UWOSA applicants.

Western Values Diversity

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 519-661-2194.

Please Note:

This position is an existing vacancy. This position is fully in-person, on-site. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.