Aquaponics Undergraduate Student Intern- Greenhouse

The Aquaponics Undergraduate Student Intern - Greenhouse Management will play a crucial role in supporting the daily operations of the University's aquaponics facilities. These facilities include a 3,000-square-foot greenhouse located on the property of Steelton-Highspire School District and the aquaponics lab within the student union. The intern's responsibilities will encompass a variety of tasks, such as maintaining the aquaponics systems, planting and harvesting crops, managing and harvesting fish, keeping accurate records, and performing routine cleaning and maintenance duties.

This position offers a hands-on learning experience in sustainable agriculture and aquaculture, providing valuable skills in both plant and fish management.

WORK HOURS

The greenhouse work requires morning hours, while other hours will be determined based on student schedule and system maintenance and/or research needs (including potential weekends). An average of 10 hours per week is expected. A maximum of 20 hours per week is allowed.

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* NOTE:

This position may require off-site work. Support may be available through the Office of Career Services and Experiential Learning for students who need transportation assistance.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• Preference is given to students enrolled in undergraduate programs in environmental science, integrative sciences, or biotechnology. However, students from other programs will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Interest in pursuing future research and/or work related to controlled environment agriculture or similar fields

• Must be hardworking, dedicated, meticulous, self-motivated and have a positive attitude
• Enjoy working in a greenhouse environment and lab setting
• Willingness and ability to take and follow instructions
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Transportation to/from the greenhouse site is the student's responsibility (a bus stop is within walking distance of the greenhouse, and rideshare support may be available)

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Able to consistently operate aquaponics structures and machinery, as well as any necessary chemicals involved in the maintenance of the equipment

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The tasks for this position will include:

• seeding, transplanting, harvesting, and packaging various crop species
• fish management
• harvesting fish upon maturity
• conducting water chemistry testing
• keeping accurate and detailed records
• cleaning and maintaining facilities
• supporting CSA operations
• assisting with after-school programming and/or summer camps
• guiding tours
• adherence to required lab safety guidelines

All tasks must be performed while adhering to university policy and national, state, and local standards for safety and grant regulatory compliance.

Note:
Other duties as assigned to support the mission and vision of the University; nothing in this job description restricts the university's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.