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The Greenhouse Technician supports controlled-environment research by performing hands-on plant care, pollination, and sample collection for wheat and other crops. This role focuses on precise execution of daily greenhouse operations, including plant maintenance, tissue sampling, and sanitation, while closely following safety and research protocols. The position is ideal for someone who enjoys working with plants, supporting scientific experiments, and contributing to high-quality data collection in a structured, collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

Participate as a key member of a dedicated crew that pollinates wheat in controlled greenhouse environments.
Perform daily plant care activities, including seeding, pollinating, transplanting, watering, harvesting, and seed handling for wheat and other crops.
Collect and prepare plant tissue samples for laboratory analysis, ensuring sample integrity and accuracy for large volumes of material.
Assist with research experiments by following established protocols, supporting experimental setups, and helping maintain consistency in procedures.
Support data collection and record-keeping by accurately documenting observations, activities, and results in designated systems or logs.
Maintain greenhouse sanitation by properly disposing of regulated plant material and waste in accordance with safety and compliance guidelines.
Follow all safety protocols when working with plants, chemicals, equipment, and research materials to protect personal and team safety.
Collaborate with team members to coordinate daily tasks and ensure greenhouse operations run smoothly and efficiently.
Work independently on assigned tasks, managing time and priorities to meet research and operational timelines.
Monitor plants for health, growth, and development, and promptly report any issues or abnormalities to the appropriate personnel.

Essential Skills

High school diploma or GED.
Strong attention to detail, especially when performing repetitive tasks and handling plant materials and samples.
Demonstrated adherence to safety protocols in a laboratory, greenhouse, or similar environment.
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and maintain accurate records.
Effective communication skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Ability to learn and use internal research software and digital tools for data entry and tracking.
Capability to perform repetitive tasks and maintain focus over extended periods.
Ability to stand or sit for extended periods while performing greenhouse and laboratory tasks.
Ability to lift a minimum of 30 pounds as part of routine greenhouse operations.
Comfort working in warm, humid greenhouse conditions with year-round exposure to pollen.
Willingness to work with common chemicals and strictly follow all associated safety guidelines.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, horticulture, plant sciences, or a related field is preferred.
Two or more years of relevant experience in greenhouse operations, plant care, or agricultural research is preferred.
Experience with plant pollination, especially in controlled environments, is an advantage.
Experience in plant tissue sampling or laboratory support for plant science research is beneficial.
Familiarity with greenhouse sanitation practices and regulated material handling is a plus.

Work Environment

This role is based in a controlled greenhouse environment that supports plant science and agricultural research. The schedule typically runs Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, with a rotational weekend assignment approximately every sixth weekend and some holiday work required to maintain continuous plant care. The greenhouse conditions are warm and humid year-round, with ongoing exposure to pollen as part of routine pollination and plant care activities. Team members use standard greenhouse and laboratory tools, including irrigation equipment, plant handling tools, and computer systems for data entry and communication. Work involves standing or sitting for extended periods, performing repetitive tasks, and occasionally lifting items weighing at least 30 pounds. Safety is a core priority, and staff follow established protocols when working with common chemicals, regulated plant materials, and research equipment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Johnston, IA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Johnston,IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 10, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

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Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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