Greenhouse Research Manager

The Plant Growth Facilities of the Agricultural Research Division provide high quality greenhouse and growth chamber spaces and professional support that meets the needs of UNL’s research, teaching, and extension programs.

As the Greenhouse Research Manager, you will:

• Be independently responsible for day-to-day management of a plant pathology research greenhouse facility.
• Direct the work of 1-2 staff members and 2-3 student workers.
• Oversee space and resource allocations within the facility.
• Provide research problem-solving and support to faculty, staff, and students.
• Train staff and students on greenhouse practices, safety, and proper care of plants.
• Develop, maintain, and monitor a pest, disease, and nutrition management program.
• Cultivate, maintain, and manage plant pathogens, creating controlled disease conditions and promoting the growth of specific disease organisms for research purposes.
• Maintain biosecurity measures to prevent cross-contamination and control the spread of pathogens.
• Continuously monitor environmental conditions and horticultural practices to maximize plant growth.
• Maintain records including billing, sanitation, protocols, and safety.
• Coordinate the purchasing, inventory, storage, and maintenance of supplies and equipment.

This position will require irregular hours to respond to emergencies and ensure that plants receive proper care on weekends and holidays. This position requires regular work in a hot and humid greenhouse environment. Candidates must be comfortable performing physical tasks under these conditions. Position requires obtaining a pesticide applicator’s license within 2 months of hire.

Within the UNL System, this position is categorized as a Research Manager I – Plant Science.

At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, we’re proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer, known for our welcoming and supportive work environment, commitment to professional growth, and outstanding benefits. UNL isn’t just a workplace—it’s the place to build your career and make a real impact in Nebraska When you join our team as a full-time, regular staff member, you’ll enjoy:

• Ample paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance options
• Employee & dependent scholarship program to pursue higher education
• Generous retirement plans with a university match

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks to attract and retain a high performing and collaborative workforce. UNL is committed to providing a work environment and culture that fosters personal and professional success where every person and every interaction matters. The University is proud to be one of Nebraska’s preferred and largest employers where individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential. As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/. Minimum Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in plant pathology, plant science or related field, plus four years of progressive responsibility in a greenhouse operation or plant pathology research, OR
• Master’s degree in plant pathology, plant science or related field, plus two years of progressive responsibility in a greenhouse operation or plant pathology research.

AND

• Demonstrated knowledge of plant pathology with proven ability to cultivate, maintain, and manage plant pathogens for research purposes.
• Experience creating controlled disease conditions and promoting the growth of specific disease organisms.
• Experience in maintaining biosecurity measures to prevent cross-contamination and control the spread of pathogens during research activities.
• Experience leading a team, training and teaching others, and directing their work.
• Extensive knowledge of plant growth, transplanting, propagation, nutrition and insect and disease management required.
• Problem solving abilities and excellent communication skills.
• Record keeping and computer skills necessary.

Preferred Qualifications The following qualifications are preferred but not required:

• Project management and/or supervisory experience.
• Experience working with transgenic plants and associated regulations.

Posted Salary $52,881/year minimum
How to Apply