JOB SUMMARY
Under direct supervision, performs manual activities in the care of
animals and crops and functions as a helper in the performance of
routine biological and agricultural tests, examinations, and
processes.
PRIMARY DUTIES
1. Assists investigators with providing treatment to animals;
prepares syringes, routine media, solutions and stains and
observes specimens. Sterilizes laboratory equipment and logs
data to experimental records.
2. Obtains blood samples from animals following specific procedures.
Collects crop samples and prepares samples for storage and
experiments.
3. Performs routine maintenance/repairs on agricultural facilities,
equipment and tools to ensure operational readiness, safety and
cleanliness.
4. Prepares research plots for planting crops by measuring, plowing,
spading, hoeing, raking, watering, fertilizing, and sterilizing
soil.
5. Provides general care for all types of livestock. Prepares and
distributes food according to schedules.
6. Performs greenhouse activities such as watering specified areas
and crops, regulating temperature, humidity and lighting, and
applying fertilizers following specific instructions.
7. Operates farm machinery including tractors, plows, mowers,
combines, balers, and hand tools.
Note: The intent of this list of primary duties is to provide a
representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities of
this job. Incumbents perform other related duties assigned. Specific
duties and responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION: High School Diploma or GED
EXPERIENCE: One year in related agricultural work.
OTHER: Valid Maryland Noncommercial Class C or equivalent
driver's licence.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES
Working knowledge of and ability to use farm equipment. Working
knowledge of basic arithmetic and ability to perform mathematical
calculations. Ability to lift and transport agricultural supplies,
tools, and equipment, to climb and to perform extensive standing and
walking. Ability to wear and work in personal protective equipment.
Ability to work in extreme weather conditions.
OTHER: Except for qualifications established by law, additional
related experience and formal education in which one has gained the
knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the
work of the job class may be substituted for the education or
experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 college
credits being equivalent to one year of experience.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Maryland Noncommercial Class
B or equivalent driver's license may be required. If required to
obtain a Commercial Driver's License, employees will be subject to
drug and alcohol education and testing as required under Federal
Highway Administration and the State of Maryland regulations. Maryland
State Department of Agriculture certification as pesticide applicator
may be required. Candidates selected for employment may be subject to
medical inquiries and/or medical examinations to determine ability to
perform the job.