We are looking for one or two MSU undergrads/recent grads to construct and manage an apple seedling nursery at the MSU-Horticulture Research Center near the MSU main campus, and to manage an existing, 2-acre apple orchard located in Clarksville MI, about a 45-minute drive. The jobs will begin in April and continue through mid-August. Full or part time.
Nursery construction will involve renovation of decrepit hoophouse structures, installation of shade cloth, soil conditioning, installation of irrigation and planting of apple seedlings. Orchard management will involve pruning, weeding, fruit hand-thinning, storm damage, scouting for pests, spraying of pesticides (if you are certified), training of trees, and other general orchard management exercises.
You are enthusiastically invited to apply for this position if you:
-Are smart, yet creative
-Have an interest in apples and/ or horticulture in general
-Have a good idea of how plants grow
-Have a good idea of how to grow plants and are good at this
-Have a strong work ethic, self motivated, with ability to work independently and quickly
-Are a fast learner who pays attention to details
-Can deal with work in all weather conditions and with various bugs without complaining
-Are physically fit
-Are an excellent problem solver
-Like to build things
-Have reliable transportation
Compensation:
$15-$25 per hour based on skills, experience, and references
To Apply:
Please submit cover letter, resume, and evidence of creative activities; questions are welcomed by email to Prof. Steve van Nocker, 517-775-5218 vannocke@msu.edu. Applications without all three components will not be considered. Please indicate if you are interested in full time, or part time (and list your hours of availability). Applications will be evaluated immediately and on a rolling basis, thus you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
