Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Department: Science

Reports to: Senior Scientist

Seasonal Part-time, approximately 9 months

Position Overview: This 20-hour-per-week, 9-month Research Assistant role, beginning late May - June 2024, will help to implement a National Science Foundation-funded research project investigating the potential of perennial agriculture and designer native plant communities in landscape restoration. The individual in this role will assist with field plot maintenance at a site in Mettawa, Illinois, and the collection and laboratory analyses of soil and plant samples under the supervision of the Garden’s Soil Ecologist.

Responsibilities

In this role you will be responsible for the following:

• Assist with field sampling and archiving of soil samples and plant materials
• Assist with laboratory analyses of soil chemical, physical, and biological properties
• Collaborate with the Field Manager to maintain the experimental plots (hoeing, weeding, transplant seedlings)
• Prepare laboratory chemical solutions for analyses and maintain MSDS records
• Assure that equipment, glassware, and laboratory work areas are clean and orderly
• Data entry using computers and software to carry out lab tasks

Chicago Botanic Garden Values & Behaviors:

Qualifications

Our ideal candidate will have the following:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or similar, or an associate’s degree in an environmental science-related field, and at least two years of work experience
• At least one year of experience working in a chemistry, soil science, environmental science, or other biological science laboratory. Experience in, or interest in learning, soil biological assays
• Proficiency in field plot and plant maintenance, including rototilling, fencing, irrigation, mowing, or interest in learning
• Ability to keep a well-organized written notebook of field and laboratory activities and results, add data into reports and ongoing records
• Ability to listen to and follow directions presented through spoken and/or written words
• Ability to communicate information clearly in written or oral form
• Ability to complete work in a timely manner
• Attention to detail
• Interest in molecular techniques and use of new processes, tools, and equipment 
• Knowledge of basic statistics and proficiency with R, or an interest in learning
• Valid Illinois driver’s license

Physical Demands: 

Ability to stand for long periods; recurring bending, stooping, and crouching; ability to perform repetitive motions with hands, wrists, elbows, and shoulders; ability to push, pull, or lift objects less than 30 pounds; ability to work outdoors for occasional to regular field work, including walking on uneven terrain; frequent use of office equipment (computers, copiers, keyboards).

To Apply:

In addition to the Garden application materials, please submit a short letter indicating your interest in the position, and the type and extent of your field and laboratory experiences.

Why Apply? 
 Come work in a setting that is like no other as you support our mission: We cultivate the power of plants to sustain and enrich life. Take the first step toward being one of the employees who make the Garden one of the treasures of the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Apply today. Please note that applicants who do not meet the required qualifications will not be considered.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, or basis of disability, or any other federal, state, or local protected class.

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and qualifications required of personnel so classified.

In accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, Chicago Botanic Garden does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its programs or activities, including in employment or admissions. Please call (847) 835-8264 to contact our Title IX coordinator should you have questions or concerns. Please do not call this number to inquire about job postings or the status of your application, or with solicitations from companies or third-party recruiters.