Biological Scientist II

The Biological Scientist II is responsible for maintaining greenhouse facilities, supporting research and teaching activities, and ensuring the health of diverse plant collections. This role requires expertise in horticulture, pest management, and environmental controls while providing supervision to student workers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plant Care & Maintenance – Oversees watering, fertilization, pruning, and overall plant health management to support research and teaching. Adjusts environmental conditions to optimize plant growth.
• Greenhouse Sanitation & Pest Management – Maintains greenhouse cleanliness and applies best horticultural practices to prevent and manage pest infestations. Ensures compliance with pesticide application regulations.
• Research & Teaching Support – Works closely with faculty, researchers, and students to provide plants, materials, and greenhouse space for scientific studies and coursework. Assists in lab setups and experiment preparation.
• Plant Propagation & Sowing – Supervises and participates in propagation, transplanting, and seed sowing to support instructional and research needs. Implements specialized propagation techniques for rare species.
• Greenhouse Equipment & Environmental Controls – Monitors and maintains irrigation, misting, ventilation, cooling, heating, and shading systems. Coordinates with UF Facilities for repairs and infrastructure maintenance.
• Record-Keeping & Inventory Management – Maintains detailed records of plant inventory, research accessions, environmental conditions, and pesticide applications. Assists researchers in documenting experimental data.
• Budget & Financial Planning – Assists in managing the greenhouse budget, tracking expenditures, and ensuring efficient resource allocation.

The salary is $46,000 - $50,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

This is a TEAMS position and is eligible for a suite of excellent benefits, retirement options, and paid leave. 

Bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field and three years of experience or Master’s degree in biology or a related field with one year of relevant experience.

• Degree in Horticulture, Botany, Plant Science, or a related field.
• Significant practical experience in greenhouse, nursery, or botanical garden operations.
• Knowledge of diverse plant species and their care, particularly those not commonly cultivated.
• Familiarity with plant pathology, pest control, and pesticide application.
• Strong record-keeping and data management skills.
• Experience with environmental control systems and facility maintenance.
• Ability to work in various weather conditions and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Pesticide Applicator’s License (must be obtained within six months of hire).

To be considered for this position, please upload your cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information of three professional references.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Pesticide Applicator’s License must be obtained within six months of hire.