Researcher-Smith Project

Classification Title: Junior Lab Tech
Working Title: Researcher-Smith Project
Job Code: 4944
Percent Time (FTE): 100%
Supervisor: Alan Smith
Salary Range: $22.39/hr (Step 1) - $23.26/hr (Step 3) ; depending on education, qualifications and experience
Position Type: This is a Temporary Posted for a set duration not to exceed 12-months. Length of the initial appointment six months, renewable
The shift and hours of work are: Monday - Friday (8 hours per day). Overtime and/or consecutive Sunday work are not conditions of employment

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Bargaining unit consideration begins on 04/30/2026 and ends on 05/07/2026. Monday - Friday, 8:00 - 4:30 pm.

Position Summary:
This is a full time in person, 100% research position.
The incumbent will conduct experiments in the laboratory, field, and greenhouse. Areas of research include plant reproduction, genetic analysis, and measurement of key traits of invasive plants. This position requires organization, documenting task progress and completion, understanding written Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and accuracy in following written and verbal instructions.

Job Responsibilities:

• 25% Sample plant tissue, extract DNA, and perform down-stream analyses using a specific SOPs and manufacturer's instructions.
• 25% Organize plant tissue collections, DNA samples, and record results from experiments using whole plants are also required. For example, counting seedlings and recording plant morphology.
• 20% Use Microsoft Office software or Google applications to record experiment measures, perform rudimentary statistics and write summaries of an experiment that includes materials, methods, results and basic conclusions.
• 25% Care for plants in greenhouse and laboratory, including planting, transplanting, measuring growth and germination, inventory plants and maintaining excellent plant health.
• 5% Order specific materials through U Market and maintain organization and cleanliness in the laboratory and greenhouse.

Required Qualifications:

• HS Diploma or equivalent with some science courses and laboratory experience
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office software or Google applications, email and using these and other software to document methods, record data and perform summary statistics including making graphs and tables.
• Ability to organize complex samples and data.
• Ability to complete research activities following written and verbal instructions.
• Excellent verbal, written and electronic communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• BS Degree or experience in one of the following areas: Horticulture, Agronomy, Genetics, Plant Science, Agronomy, Genetics, Biology, or a related disciplines.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively in both laboratory and greenhouse environments.
• Proven ability to follow detailed procedures, maintain accurate records, manage multiple tasks, and maintain data records.
• Interest in plant biology, genetics, or invasive plant research and management.
• Experience caring for plants, sampling plant tissue, extracting DNA and DNA analysis such as polymerase chain reaction and gel electrophoresis using a specific SOP and manufacturer's instructions.
• Demonstrated ability to obtain and organize plant samples, DNA, and experimental data results. Documenting detailed materials, methods, and results from experiments.
• Use Microsoft Office software or Google applications to record experiment measures, perform routine statistics and write summaries of an experiment.
• Experience maintaining excellent plant health in greenhouse and laboratory, including fertigation, planting, transplanting, measuring germination, inventorying plants.
• Order materials through U Market and maintain organization and cleanliness in the laboratory and greenhouse.
• A working knowledge of University of Minnesota systems such as laboratory safety, hazardous waste handling, U Market, and Information Technology.
• Experience in organizing and recording experimental data helpful, not required
• Experience in writing and communicating scientific data, for scientists and lay audiences helpful, not required.

Department of Horticultural Science:

The Department of Horticultural Science is a diversified research-oriented organization that has a strong commitment to teaching and Extension/outreach. The primary mission of the department is to discover, interpret, and transfer new knowledge for the purpose of improving quality of life through a) improving productivity, value, and use of horticulture crops; b) contributing to a quality environment, and c) educating students.

Pay Range: $22.39 - $23.26; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).