Job Description

Probation/Trial Period: 910 working hours or six (6) months, whichever occurs first

Hours: 6 - 12 hours per week

Funding: Grant

Start Date: As soon as possible

Location: Winnipeg, MB

Job Type: Term

Status: New

Date Posted: 01/05/2023

Closing Date: 01/11/2024

Salary Range: $17.26 - $18.74 per hour + 6% vacation pay

*This posting will be used to fill 2 term positions*

The TerraByte Plant and Greenhouse Technician is a part-time term position that contributes to a collaborative project focusing on plant growth, data collection, and optimal growing conditions within the Department of Physics/Applied Computer Science. The successful candidate will be responsible for executing plant growth schedules, utilizing imaging tools for data collection, and researching optimal growing conditions. The role involves working in growth chambers and labs, executing growing schedules, and maintaining a comprehensive seed catalog.

Responsibilities:

• Plant Cultivation and Maintenance:

• Pot plants according to established protocols.
• Mix soil batches for different plant species.
• Conduct regular maintenance tasks, including watering, pruning, and pest control.
• Monitor and record plant health indicators.
• Execution of Growing Schedules:

• Collaborate with team members to create detailed growing schedules.
• Follow schedules, ensuring timely planting, harvesting, and replanting.
• Coordinate with colleagues to adjust schedules based on project requirements.
• Document observations and any deviations from the schedule.
• Data Collection Using Imaging Tools:

• Collaborate with team members to synchronize imaging with the growing schedule.
• Ensure proper storage and organization of collected data
• Seed Catalog Management:

• Create and maintain a comprehensive catalog of available seeds.
• Log seed details, including species, source, and any specific characteristics. Regularly update the catalog to reflect seed usage and availability.
• Operation of Growing Chamber and Lights:

• Manage the operation of the project\'s growing chamber.
• Adjust programmable lights according to the needs of different plant growth stages. Collaborate with colleagues to optimize growing conditions. Monitor equipment functionality and report any issues promptly.

Qualifications:

• Completion of two years of an undergraduate degree in a Biology, Agriculture, or a related discipline from a recognized institution or in a Diploma program.
• Experience in plant cultivation, both in the field and indoor environments.
• Proven ability to work independently and under minimal supervision.
• Previous involvement in research projects related to plant biology or agriculture.
• Strong attention to detail and discipline to adhere to schedules.
• Experience in researching optimal growing conditions for plants.
• Familiarity with automated watering systems and/or hydroponic systems.
• Basic coding skills for data collection and analysis.
• Knowledge in plant biology, including an understanding of plant health indicators.
• Ability to operate and manage growth chambers, programmable lights, and imaging tools.
• Excellent organizational skills for maintaining a comprehensive seed catalog.
• Interest in working within an interdisciplinary team and collaborating with diverse stakeholders.

An equivalent combination of education, experience, skills, knowledge and abilities may be considered.

Condition(s) of Employment:

• Must be legally entitled to work in Canada.

Note: The work described in this posting will be conducted in-person.

The University of Winnipeg is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and recognizes that a diverse staff and faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research environments, and is essential to academic and institutional excellence. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals and encourage women, racialized persons, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+ persons to confidentially self-identify at time of application.

The University of Winnipeg is committed to ensuring employment opportunities are accessible for all applicants. If you require accommodation supports during the recruitment process, please contact human_resources@uwinnipeg.ca.

The personal information of applicants is collected under the authority of the University of Winnipeg Act and 36(1)(b) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All personal information collected via the recruitment process is used to assess the applicant\xe2\x80\x99s suitability, eligibility, and qualifications for employment, and to otherwise support recruitment activities. This information will be provided to participating members of the recruitment process. Questions regarding the collection of your personal information may be directed to the Director, HR Services, 515 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, R3B 2E9 or human_resources@uwinnipeg.ca.

University of Winnipeg