Agricultural Technician II

About This Role:

Kansas Forest Service is hiring a full-time Agricultural Technician II position within the Conservation Tree Planting Program (CTPP). The CTPP operates a conservation seedling distribution program which procures and/or produces various types of woody plant material including bare-root seedlings, stratified seed and containerized seedlings to be used for conservation plantings throughout the state. Over 40 species of deciduous and coniferous trees and shrubs are propagated and or/procured on an annual basis.

The agricultural technician recruited will fill an important role at KFS through the facilitation of greenhouse operations, through the operation and maintenance of equipment, by providing assistance with labor intensive shipping operations, facilitating seed collection and processing efforts for the nursery, and maintaining grounds around KFS. This position will qualify for paid stand-by time in cooperation with the CTPP Foresters.

Why Join Us:

The Kansas Forest Service is the 5th oldest state forestry agency in the country established in 1887, and is housed as an independent agency within K-State Research and Extension. The agency employs 35 full-time employees, and 40+ temporary and student positions, housed in Manhattan, KS and offices throughout the state. Our programs include Rural Forestry, Community Forestry, Fire Management, Conservation Tree Planting, Forest Health, and Marketing and Utilization. Learn more at our website: www.kansasforests.org

Kansas State University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays.   To see what benefits are available, please visit:  https://www.k-state.edu/hcs/benefits

We Support Diversity and Inclusion:

Kansas State University embraces diversity and inclusion.  The university actively seeks individuals who foster a collegial environment and cooperative interactions with coworkers, students, and others.  The University is dedicated to promoting the Principles of Community.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school education
• One year of relevant experience. Education may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by a hiring manager.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or closely related field
• Three years of experience in plant propagation-particularly trees and shrubs
• Experience operating, maintaining and servicing agricultural equipment and shop tools (particularly forklift and skidsteer)
• Knowledge of the hazards and proper use of insecticides, fungicides and herbicides
• Prior experience with the operation of skid steer and forklift equipment.

Other Requirements:

• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment
• Must be willing to obtain a KDA commercial pesticide applicator license within 6 months of employment (category 2,3A and 7c)
• Must be able to complete training on Skidsteer and forklift operation within 6 months of employment
• Must be able to haul loads up of up to 24,000 lbs GCWR with truck and trailer

How to Apply:

Please submit the following documents:

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter
3. Professional References

Screening of Applications Begins:

Screening begins immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by August 20, 2024.

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range:

$14.54 - $21.81/hour  

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Background Screening Statement:

In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University will procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee.