Temporary Agricultural Worker - G. Sczepanski Team; Cornell AES

Temporary Agricultural Worker

Nonexempt – Cornell University Agricultural Experiment Station.
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS).
Ithaca, New York
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CALS is a pioneer of purpose‑driven science and Cornell University’s second‑largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle challenges of our time through world‑renowned research, education, and outreach. The Cornell University Agricultural Experiment Station (Cornell AES) contributes to New York state agriculture and food security by advancing research on agriculture and food systems, the environment, applied economics, and community development. Campus Area Farms manages 325 acres on 11 small farms around Cornell campus, offering diverse soil types, growing conditions, and microclimates.

Research includes breeding programs on tomatoes, small grains, potatoes, pumpkins and other crops.

As a Temporary Agricultural Worker you will assist the Farm Manager. Job duties include:

• Mowing lawns and fields.
• Assisting farm crew with irrigation setup.
• Laying and lifting plastic mulch.
• Farm equipment operation.
• Rock picking.
• Weeding.
• Crop scouting.
• Assisting the Farm Manager as needed.
• Adhering to all safety protocols with a solid understanding of field/laboratory safety techniques and procedures.
• Completing training on field/lab safety and proper handling of chemicals as required by CALS Environmental Health and Safety.

We are looking for a talented individual who enjoys working outdoors. Someone familiar with farm work and having:

• High School Diploma and 1+ years of farm agricultural experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to work in field locations that can be difficult to access.
• Must be able to navigate uneven terrain at times.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Proven experience in communicating effectively, both written and oral.
• Exceptional attention to detail and strong observational skills.
• Ability to work independently once provided sufficient direction.
• Ability to work alone or with a team and problem‑solve as needed.
• Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather.
• Must be safety oriented; know, understand, adhere and train others to conform to all safety requirements and regulations.
• Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
• Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position and have reliable transportation as well as a valid and unrestricted New York State driver’s license and be cleared to drive for university business.

Additional helpful qualifications:

• Experience in an agricultural research environment.
• Preferred experience in vegetable production practices on a research facility.

This is a temporary full‑time (39 hours/week) position with a fixed term of April 27, 2026 to October 30, 2026, located in Ithaca, New York.

Compensation: $22.75/hour.

Benefits: Cornell receives national recognition as an award‑winning workplace for health, well‑being, and sustainability initiatives. No relocation assistance is provided and visa sponsorship is not available.

You must submit a resume/CV and a cover letter through the Cornell job application system. For assistance, contact the recruiter or email jer
278
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Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world‑class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of … any person … any study. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy‑related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability, arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, staff, and all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act.

We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.