Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA Seeks Agriculture Specialist Manager

Job Description
The Urban Horticulture Center (UHC) in the School of Plant and Environmental Sciences is a thriving learning environment providing ideal spaces for various teaching, research and outreach programs at Virginia Tech. Research and Academic programs optimize the space for experimentation and instruction in soil science, application and analysis of pesticides in urban and agricultural environments, essential principles for agriculture and green sectors, and for community engagement opportunities.

The Agriculture Specialist Manager independently manages the Urban Horticulture Center (UHC). The manager provides oversight and support to instructors, researchers, program directors, faculty, and students in preparing and planting various beds, field, plots, greenhouses, and other spaces throughout the property. The manager provides logistical support when needed for outreach and community engagement programs and performs safe pesticide spraying treatment.

The Center manager hires, trains and supervises technical staff to assist in the daily schedule of maintenance duties. The manager and delegated staff check locks and store keys safely to protect office equipment, machinery, and property. The manager conducts inspections and either performs or schedules maintenance to keep farm machinery, hand-held mechanical devices, sprayers, etc. in safe working order.

The UHC manager maintains electronic records for inventory of equipment, machinery, chemicals, tools, and supplies. The manager determines when to replace, repair, and surplus items, and procures necessary items in a timely manner.
The manager develops and manages operational budget to cover the Center’s expenses including payroll, supplies, utilities, fuel, associated labor costs, maintenance of buildings and grounds, and equipment.

The manager stays current and in compliance with Office of Environmental Health and Safety training and protocol; schedules and is present for site visits by Health and Safety officer for testing, hazard assessments, and updates to manuals. Maintains ECP, PPE, and EAP plans. Maintains First Aid and emergency supplies. Provides thorough training in safe methods in use of equipment and facilities to UG, GR, staff, visitors, researchers, directors, faculty, instructors, etc.

The UHC Manager and the SPES Director coordinate potential development plans for future expansion projects and/or optimization of UHC property.

Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Plant Science or related discipline or equivalent demonstrated university-level training and work experience with horticultural or agricultural operations in research setting; Demonstrated experience operating and maintaining specialized agricultural equipment safely and effectively, including mowers, sprayers, tillers, and related equipment; Must have or obtain within one year of hire a Va. Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s License in Category 10, forklift operator training; Familiarity with irrigation system installation, troubleshooting and maintenance.

Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree

Salary Information
$43,000-53,000

Hours per week
40

Review Date
03/27/2026

Additional Information
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