Temporary Laboratory and Research Technician - Y. Al Shoffe Team (Horticulture); Ithaca, New York

Temporary Laboratory and Research Technician

Nonexempt
Section of Horticulture
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS)
Ithaca, New York

About the College

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University’s second-largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: natural and human systems; food, energy, and environmental resources; and social, physical, and economic well-being.

As the only horticulture program in the Ivy League, our faculty, staff and students work to shape the food systems and landscapes of today and tomorrow.

Our faculty work across New York to make discoveries and share knowledge about fruits, vegetables and landscape plants. They are called on by farmers, golf course managers, urban foresters, government officials and many others to solve problems around the globe.

What We Need

As the Temporary Laboratory/Research Technician, you will support ongoing postharvest research projects in the Cornell Postharvest Laboratory. You will conduct research activities to meet project objectives and fulfill laboratory obligations. Duties include:

• Preparing for experiments, including tasks such as labeling crates and trees.
• Harvesting fruit and assessing fruit maturity and quality using a variety of instruments and tools.
• Assessing fruit during storage
• Entering data accurately and managing data records.

We are looking for an individual who enjoys working in a research environment. We need someone interested in agriculture and in working as part of a team. Additionally, we need someone who has:

• High School Diploma and completed coursework in Plant Science, Biology, Biochemistry, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position and have reliable transportation as well as have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver’s license and be cleared to drive for university business.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Flexibility to adapt to varying work schedules and tasks.
• Strong ability to work effectively within an inclusive environment at Cornell.

If you possess these experiences and skills, this may be the role for you! There are a few other qualifications that we would view as incredibly helpful in this role, including:

• Associate’s Degree in Plant Science, Biology, or Biochemistry.

This position is a temporary full-time (39 hours/week) position with a fixed term of May 1, 2026, to August 31, 2026, and will be located in Ithaca, New York.

Rewards and Benefits

Compensation is $22.70/hour.

Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, well-being, and sustainability.

• Our benefits programs include comprehensive health care options, generous retirement contributions, access to wellness programs, and employee discounts with local and national retail brands. We invite you to follow this link to get more information about our benefits: Understand Your Benefits | Working at Cornell.
• Follow this link to learn more about the Total Rewards of Working at Cornell: Total Rewards | Working at Cornell.