Research Specialist: Forest Health and Plant Protection

Research Specialist -

Forest Health and Plant Protection Delaware, OH Full-Time Opportunity:

The Science & Conservation department seeks a full time Research Specialist to be a part of a unique partnership between Holden Forests & Gardens and the U.S. Forest Service Northern Research Station. The Research Specialist will assist in all aspects of research to support the Emerald Ash Borer-resistance breeding program covering five different species of North American ash. The incumbent will work as part of a team of 6 full-time and 4 seasonal team members that includes Forest Service research scientists, technicians and interns as well as additional Research Specialists from Holden Forests & Gardens. The position is funded through a large, interdisciplinary grant for a 1-year term , subject to annual review, with potential for extension. The position will be based at the U.S. Forest Service Forestry Sciences Laboratory in Delaware, OH as a part of a unique partnership with Holden Forests & Gardens.

Position Details:

Location:

Delaware Full-Time Non-Exempt Grant funded

Key Responsibilities:

Key responsibilities of the Research Specialist include but are not limited to: Support Holden Forests & Gardens' mission, vision, values, and core commitment Maintenance of potted plants in the greenhouses and in outdoor growing areas Assist with plant propagation, cross pollinations and seed germination Participate in the maintenance, installation and data collection of research plantings Work with other team members to conduct bioassays to assess host tree resistance Assist with maintenance of inventory, accession records, and management and collection of data The position will require working half days on weekends on a rotating basis with other team member Other duties as assigned

Qualifications and Skills:

Demonstrate a passion for people and nature B.S. or in horticulture, plant science, plant breeding, forestry, natural resources or related field Advanced degrees are welcome, but not required At least 1 year of experience in plant care, plant propagation and project management, required Familiarity with and experience implementing integrated plant management strategies, preferred Experience with automated greenhouse controllers and irrigation systems, preferred Experience with maintenance and use of tractors, industrial mowers, a plus Training or certification in pesticide application and safety, a plus Construction skills such as fence installation, construction of shade houses, nursery areas, a plus Experience working in tree improvement, a plus A valid Driver's License with acceptable driving record, required Physical Requirements Must be able to perform with or without reasonable accommodation: Frequent work outdoors under a variety of weather conditions such has: heat, cold, rain, snow Transporting oneself by foot over a variety of terrain that may be wet, slippery, uneven, or rocky Standing, bending, kneeling, climbing, reaching, pulling, pushing, sitting, and grabbing Lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs. throughout the day Some of the reasons Holden Forests & Gardens (HF&G) is a great place to work! We offer Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits | Paid Time Off | 8 Paid Holidays a year | 403(b) | Employee sponsored life insurance, long term disability and short-term disability | Work in a beautiful environment within Greater Cleveland | Discounts in our stores & cafes | Free parking at both campuses anytime we are open | Free admission to many Northeast Ohio Museums | Free Employee Assistance Program | And Much More!

Apply:

Qualified applicants should submit resume, cover letter, and names and contact information of 3 professional references. Any question about the position can be addressed to David Burke, Vice President for Science and Conservation (dburke@holdenfg.org). Review of applications with begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Holden Forests & Gardens is an equal opportunity employer and values an authentic sense of belonging at all levels of the organization, including staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, and visitors. HF&G believes that working toward an equitable culture that values all perspectives enriches the work environment, helping achieve our goal to build a greener and healthier Northeast Ohio. We are working to create and sustain a supportive environment and sense of belonging for people of all backgrounds. HF&G promotes an equitable approach in its hiring, retention, and promotion; in Board recruitment efforts; and in community partnerships and programming.