The Agricultural Sciences department at Morehead State University is accepting applications for a full-time position as a Horticulture, Fruit and Orchard Specialist (University Laboratory Farm). The anticipated start date is February 17, 2025.

Morehead State University is located in Morehead, KY, a designated Kentucky Trail Town, nestled in the Daniel Boone National Forest, in close proximity to Cave Run Lake. This location provides opportunities for a wide range of outdoor recreation activities. Morehead State University is recognized as one of the top public universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, Morehead State University is relatively close to a number of larger cities including Lexington, KY, Louisville, KY, and Cincinnati, OH. Morehead State University delivers a strong and affordable education for friendly, ambitious students who thrive in a student-focused learning environment defined by small class sizes and faculty committed to teaching and student success.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The Horticulture, Fruit and Orchard Specialist supervises the year-round fruit and orchard enterprises at Derrickson Agricultural Complex, and other associated locations, working under the direction of the Department Chair, Farm Manager, and plant science faculty. This position will direct the activities of student workers and farm staff performing horticulture assignments. Responsibilities will include various greenhouse crops, nursery plants, fruits, vegetables, flowerbeds, and turf grass plots at the farm and orchard. They will collaborate with faculty and staff to provide a hands-on learning environment for the students. Supervise the maintenance and operation of the facilities and equipment involved in horticulture production and the ordering of supplies for the Horticulture unit. They will coordinate horticulture product sales and production schedules for all areas of horticulture at DAC with input from the Horticulture faculty and Farm Manager.

REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor of Science in Horticulture or closely related agriculture field OR a High School Diploma with 5 years of experience in Horticulture Production. Valid driver’s license required. Practical experience with a variety of horticultural, fruit and orchard crops. The ability to operate farm machinery and equipment is required. Interest in working with agricultural students. Ability to work productively and cooperatively with faculty, farm staff, and regional horticulture, fruit and orchard industry. Good communication skills are essential for this position.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Two years of experience in Horticulture or closely related field. MS in Horticulture. Experience with greenhouse production systems

SPONSORSHIP: This position is not budgeted for Visa Sponsorship.

Morehead State University is a comprehensive, regionally focused university providing high quality instruction at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The University has an enrollment of over 9,000 students. To apply, visit: https://moreheadstate.peopleadmin.com and complete the MSU Application for Employment along with a resume, three letters of reference, and the name and contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin after the close date and continue until the position is filled. For preferred consideration, apply by January 31, 2025. Contact the Office of Human Resources at (606) 783-2097 should you have questions about our online application. Please contact Vijay Subramaniam the search committee chair, at [email protected] for questions regarding this position. MSU is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

This position reports to the Farm Manager, Assistant Farm Manager and plant science faculty, directs activities of student workers and interacts with other farm employees, faculty and students. Works with the Department Accountant to place orders and pay invoices while staying in line with budgetary constraints.

Strenuous physical labor and heavy lifting are required.

Forty hour work week, rotating holidays.

Both indoor and outdoor work is required in all types of weather conditions.

May be required to work some weekends.

Work horticulture and fruit production related events, such as greenhouse sales.