The Greenhouse Assistant Specialist plays a critical role in advancing the research, education, and public engagement missions of UC Merced’s Experimental Smart Farm (ESF) and the Farms–Food–Future Innovation program. The position supports UC Merced’s development as an Agricultural Experiment Station and requires a high level of technical expertise, independent judgment, and leadership in applied agricultural research, greenhouse operations, and community engagement.
Under general direction from the ESF Farm Manager, AES Research Coordinator and/or Principal Investigators, the Greenhouse Assistant Specialist will independently manage complex research activities, oversee greenhouse and field operations, and contribute substantively to experimental design, data analysis, and dissemination of results. This position also plays a leadership role in outreach, training, and coordination across campus and community partners for the Greenhouse. Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, presentations, publications, and/or other dissemination of research findings resulting from greenhouse and applied agricultural research activities.
Research Design and Implementation:
Independently contribute to the design, planning, and execution of applied agricultural and greenhouse-based research studies, including experimental layout, treatment design, and protocol development. Lead day-to-day implementation of research projects within greenhouse and field settings, ensuring adherence to research objectives, timelines, and regulatory requirements. Apply advanced knowledge of plant production systems, controlled environment agriculture, soil and substrate management, irrigation strategies, and climate control technologies. Collaborate closely with faculty, senior researchers, and external partners to refine methodologies and integrate innovative smart-farming approaches.
Greenhouse, Farm, and Equipment Operations:
Oversee daily greenhouse operations, including crop production schedules, environmental controls, composting, and integrated pest management practices. Independently manage and troubleshoot advanced farming and greenhouse technologies, including sensors, automation systems, and data-logging platforms. Perform and/or coordinate routine and preventive maintenance of farm and greenhouse equipment; oversee minor repairs and ensure equipment readiness. Safely operate and supervise the use of vehicles and equipment in compliance with UC safety policies. Assist with operational planning, seasonal workflows, and coordination of time-sensitive activities such as planting, harvesting, and material handling.
Data Management and Analysis:
Lead the collection, organization, quality control, and analysis of data derived from smart farming technologies and experimental trials. Maintain research databases and data systems; ensure data integrity, documentation, and accessibility for research teams. Apply analytical tools such as GIS, remote sensing, and statistical or computational methods to interpret field and greenhouse data. Prepare figures, summaries, and technical documentation to support publications, grant reports, and presentations.
Outreach, Engagement, and Education:
Serve a leadership role in Outreach & Engagement activities across the campus, local agricultural community, and broader Central Valley region. Coordinate and lead tours of the Experimental Smart Farm and greenhouse facilities for students, researchers, industry partners, and community groups. Collaborate with faculty and staff to develop signage, educational materials, and interpretive displays for the farm and greenhouse sites. Assist in organizing workshops, demonstrations, and public events that highlight research activities and smart-farming innovations. Support experiential learning by mentoring and training undergraduate students, volunteers, and junior research staff.
Communication and Collaboration:
Clearly and effectively communicate research methods and findings through written reports, internal documentation, and oral presentations. Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary research teams, campus units, and external stakeholders. Contribute to the preparation of research summaries, outreach materials, and supporting documentation for grants and program reporting.
Compliance and Safety:
Ensure full compliance with UC policies, safety regulations, and ethical standards related to research, equipment operation, and environmental stewardship. Assist with risk assessments, safety trainings, and implementation of best practices for greenhouse and field operations.
This position requires driving as an essential job function to support greenhouse and field research activities, including transport of equipment, materials, and travel between research sites where alternative transportation would not be comparable in travel time or operational needs. The incumbent must possess a valid driver’s license, maintain a driving record in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program.
