Participation in field activities associated with the citrus variety improvement and nematology programs, including layout, planting, treatment application (including spraying of field trees) and data collection from field trials, selective harvesting, and pollinations (breeding experiments). 

Propagation and preparation of plants for greenhouse experiments, including rooted cuttings, grafting, and plant training. Conduct greenhouse screening experiments (soil adaptation, disease and insect resistance).  Responsible for pest control spray program in greenhouses (using pesticides).  

Preparation of media and analysis of samples of plant and soil samples to identify nematodes, fungi and soil arthropods to the species level and quantify infestation levels of these pests.  Isolate, maintain and periodically increase cultures of plant parasitic nematode species for pest management research.  

Maintain laboratory equipment, spray equipment and vehicles.  Obtain supplies, organize and maintain pesticide records.  

All other duties as assigned by the supervisor. 

High school diploma or equivalent and two years of relevant experience. Appropriate college coursework or vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

This is an Agricultural Assistant II position with responsibilities to independently conduct and maintain field, laboratory, and greenhouse experiments in plant physiology, citrus and other specialty crop production, maintaining and managing field, laboratory, and greenhouse operations, and serving as a technical resource.