Specialist, Lab Materials, Horticulture

Reports To: 

Manager II, Agricultural Sciences Complex

Position Status:

Full-Time

Posted Pay Range: 

$17.80 - $22.24

If you enjoy hands-on work, collaborating with faculty and students, and being part of a team that directly supports student learning and innovation, this role is for you. As a Lab Materials Specialist, you’ll play a key role in ensuring horticulture labs run smoothly and safely. You’ll maintain the tools and equipment that future landscape professionals train on, help create a clean and well-organized lab environment, and make a real impact in students’ daily learning experiences.

This position is perfect for someone who takes pride in keeping systems running, values teamwork, and wants to contribute to the success of a growing horticulture program.

Why Join CWI?

At the College of Western Idaho (CWI), you will work in a dynamic, collaborative environment where problem-solving and innovation are valued, and your contributions directly enhance the efficiency of the institution.

Key Responsibilities:

Chemical Application and Plant Health Management
• Mix and apply pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides to trees, shrubs, lawns, and botanical crops in compliance with all safety protocols and regulatory standards.
• Identify and diagnose plant and lawn diseases or pest infestations and determine appropriate treatment methods.
• Maintain an accurate and up-to-date chemical inventory, ensuring proper storage, labeling, and disposal of hazardous materials in accordance with federal and state policies.
• Participate in ongoing training related to chemical safety and application procedures to ensure compliance and safe handling practices.

Greenhouse, Garden, and Grounds Maintenance
• Collaborate with and mentor students in greenhouse and garden bed work, providing hands-on instruction and support.
• Perform routine grounds maintenance including weeding, planting, irrigation, and general landscape upkeep to support an engaging and educational environment.
• Maintain and operate irrigation systems and seasonal planting schedules, and ensure soil health through amendments and sustainable practices.

Equipment Operation, Laboratory Setup, and Maintenance
• Operate and maintain a variety of horticulture and groundskeeping equipment, including hand tools, trucks, and farm implements; perform basic troubleshooting and minor repairs.
• Set, activate, and adjust machinery mechanisms as needed; detect and report equipment malfunctions promptly.
• Prepare, set up, and tear down horticulture labs by gathering materials, organizing supplies, and ensuring cleanliness and order per lab setup instructions.
• Track and maintain inventory of lab and field equipment and supplies, ensuring tools are clean, functional, and readily available for use.

Safety, Compliance, and Student Mentorship
• Ensure all workspaces—including labs, greenhouses, and grounds—are clean, safe, and in compliance with institutional, state, and federal safety standards.
• Wash and sanitize lab tools, glassware, and surfaces; properly identify and dispose of hazardous chemicals.
• Mentor horticulture student employees, including work-study participants, in the safe use of chemicals, tools, and equipment, while modeling professionalism and work ethic.
• Collaborate with faculty to assess student staffing needs and provide appropriate training and support for hands-on learning experiences.

What We're Looking For:

• High School Diploma or GED and two (2) years of work experience with landscape construction, maintenance, and irrigation, or
AAS in related field preferred
• Current, valid driver’s license
• Knowledge of preventative maintenance and minor repair of equipment.
• Idaho Professional Applicators License or ability to license upon hiring
• Skill in landscape construction techniques
• Knowledge of irrigation systems and their components
• Knowledge and skills in using standard materials, tools, and equipment required in arboriculture and landscape trade. • Ability to adapt to additional equipment as assigned.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions and practices necessary in the arbor and landscape industry