View Job description for Specialist, Lab Materials, Horticulture

Reports To:

Manager II Agricultural Sciences Complex

Position Status:

Full-Time

Posted Pay Range:

$17.80 - $22.24

If you enjoy hands-on work collaborating with faculty and students and being part of a team that directly supports student learning and innovation this role is for you. As a Lab Materials Specialist youll play a key role in ensuring horticulture labs run smoothly and safely. Youll maintain the tools and equipment that future landscape professionals train on help create a clean and well-organized lab environment and make a real impact in students daily learning experiences.

This position is perfect for someone who takes pride in keeping systems running values teamwork and wants to contribute to the success of a growing horticulture program.

Why Join CWI

At the College of Western Idaho (CWI) you will work in a dynamic collaborative environment where problem-solving and innovation are valued and your contributions directly enhance the efficiency of the institution.

Key Responsibilities:

Chemical Application and Plant Health Management
Mix and apply pesticides herbicides and fungicides to trees shrubs lawns and botanical crops in compliance with all safety protocols and regulatory standards.
Identify and diagnose plant and lawn diseases or pest infestations and determine appropriate treatment methods.
Maintain an accurate and up-to-date chemical inventory ensuring proper storage labeling and disposal of hazardous materials in accordance with federal and state policies.
Participate in ongoing training related to chemical safety and application procedures to ensure compliance and safe handling practices.

Greenhouse Garden and Grounds Maintenance
Collaborate with and mentor students in greenhouse and garden bed work providing hands-on instruction and support.
Perform routine grounds maintenance including weeding planting irrigation and general landscape upkeep to support an engaging and educational environment.
Maintain and operate irrigation systems and seasonal planting schedules and ensure soil health through amendments and sustainable practices.

Equipment Operation Laboratory Setup and Maintenance
Operate and maintain a variety of horticulture and groundskeeping equipment including hand tools trucks and farm implements; perform basic troubleshooting and minor repairs.
Set activate and adjust machinery mechanisms as needed; detect and report equipment malfunctions promptly.
Prepare set up and tear down horticulture labs by gathering materials organizing supplies and ensuring cleanliness and order per lab setup instructions.
Track and maintain inventory of lab and field equipment and supplies ensuring tools are clean functional and readily available for use.

Safety Compliance and Student Mentorship
Ensure all workspacesincluding labs greenhouses and groundsare clean safe and in compliance with institutional state and federal safety standards.
Wash and sanitize lab tools glassware and surfaces; properly identify and dispose of hazardous chemicals.
Mentor horticulture student employees including work-study participants in the safe use of chemicals tools and equipment while modeling professionalism and work ethic.
Collaborate with faculty to assess student staffing needs and provide appropriate training and support for hands-on learning experiences.

What Were Looking For:

High School Diploma or GED and two (2) years of work experience with landscape construction maintenance and irrigation or
AAS in related field preferred
Current valid drivers license
Knowledge of preventative maintenance and minor repair of equipment.
Idaho Professional Applicators License or ability to license upon hiring
Skill in landscape construction techniques
Knowledge of irrigation systems and their components
Knowledge and skills in using standard materials tools and equipment required in arboriculture and landscape trade. Ability toadapt to additional equipment as assigned.
Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions and practices necessary in the arbor and landscape industry
Ability to lift 45 lbs.

Added consideration is given to candidates with the following additional knowledge and skills:
Knowledge of plant and tree anatomy physiology and growth requirements; ability to identify a variety of plant material
Knowledge of plant diseases insect problems and appropriate control measures
Knowledge and ability to apply proper pruning principles

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Within the lab environment there is exposure to odorous chemicals and the noise level is generally quiet but does vary based upon activity. May be required to lift chemical containers and laboratory equipment weighing up to 45 lbs.

Additional Instructions for Applicants:

*A resume is required. A cover letter is preferred in addition to a resume.

**Lab Materials Specialists are assigned to support labs outside of traditional campus hours and at different locations. This position is currently needed to cover the Tuesday through Friday (9-hour days) and Saturday (4-hour day) assignment but is subject to change.

***Most positions at CWI are in-person and based on campus. While some roles may allow up to two remote workdays per week eligibility for remote work is determined on a case-by-case basis at the hiring managers discretion. All candidates must reside within or be willing to relocate to a reasonable commuting distance from CWI. Employment visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Benefits:

• For information on health insurance including coverage details and plan summaries visit
• Retirement plans with employer contribution of over 11%
• Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employer-paid life insurance and short- and long-term disability insurance
• Eleven paid holidays per year (faculty may vary)
• Generous vacation and sick leave
• Paid Parental Leave
• Tuition discount on classes at CWI and other colleges

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion sex age national origin disability veteran status gender identity sexual orientation or any other applicable legally protected status.