Job Description
Student•Beekeeping
Purdue University, United States
about 5 hours ago
Location:
Hammond, MONTANA
Job Description
Apply now
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
Apply now
Posting Start Date:
5/26/26