Head Soils and Plants Technician

Job Category

AFSCME Local 888

Overview

The School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, located on the George H. Cook Campus, is one of the largest schools of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. We pursue excellence in research, teaching, and outreach in areas of study that address the biological spectrum from molecules to ecosystems. Our emphasis is on both the fundamental sciences and the social and human dimensions. We offer 21 undergraduate majors, including plant and animal sciences, microbiology, biotechnology, agriculture and food systems, landscape architecture, food and nutritional sciences, ecology and evolution, marine science and oceanography, environmental sciences and meteorology, human ecology, entomology, and environmental economics.

In addition to instruction in the classroom, field, and laboratory, our students have opportunities for experiential learning on and off campus, including a growing emphasis on international experiences through short- and long-term study abroad. Students also have access to a robust program of applied research and outreach hosted by the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station laboratories, farms, business incubators, and marine stations throughout the state.

Posting Summary

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a Head Soils and Plants Technician for the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences.

Among the key duties of the position are the following:

• Guides and instructs a group in diverse duties involving the layout and operation of land and experimental equipment pertaining to the research and development of soils and plants.
• Performs any duties of the group.

FLSA: Nonexempt

Grade: 16

Minimum Salary

44620.270

Mid Range Salary

52491.670

Maximum Salary

60542.260

Offer Information

The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.

Benefits

Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:

• Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
• Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
• Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
• Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
• Life insurance coverage
• Employee discount programs

Position Status: Full Time

Working Hours

8 hours, M-F, 7:30am to 4:30pm

Standard Hours: 40.00

Work Arrangement

This position requires a fully on-site work arrangement.

Union Description: AFSCME – Local 888

Payroll Designation: PeopleSoft

Terms of Appointment: Staff – 12 month

Position Pension Eligibility: PERS

Minimum Education and Experience

• High school/vocational school education or equivalent, plus three years experience in agriculture involving the use of chemicals, plot preparation, harvesting, handling research data and the use and repair of farm equipment and machinery.
• An equivalent combination of related vocational/technical, junior college, college level courses, and related experience may be substituted for the above experience.

Certifications/Licenses

• Must have or be willing to obtain a valid NJ Pesticide Applicator License within six months of employment.
• A valid driver’s license would be required for this position.
• Ability to successfully complete the Rutgers Defensive Driving Course.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to initiate and complete assignments.
• Ability to read and understand research level plant science instructions.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate with faculty and staff in writing and orally.
• Two years of driving history.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, preferably in horticulture or agronomy.
• Research farm experience related to plant growing.
• Licensed for pesticide application to agricultural crops.

Equipment Utilized

• Tractors of various size, roto-tillers, various soil preparation implements, mowers, chainsaws, wood chippers, stump grinders, string trimmers, various spray equipment, leaf blowers, hazelnut harvesting and processing equipment, various power tools and arc welders.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Ability to work in the hot humid conditions of farm fields and greenhouses.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• Ability to climb and work on a ladder.
• Ability to walk the fields and greenhouses for work and inspection.
• Ability to physically move from field to field via walking and motorized vehicles.

Special Conditions

• Safe Driving Record.

Posting Open Date: 05/21/2026

Special Instructions to Applicants

Notice to AFSCME Local 888 union members ONLY:

To submit an internal bid, an application must be submitted no later than 9:00 a.m. on Friday, 05/29/26. Although AFSCME Local 888 members have priority consideration, outside applications are accepted as well.

Regional Campus: Rutgers University-New Brunswick

Home Location Campus: Off Campus

City

New Brunswick

State

NJ

Tagged as: Employment