A weekly report prepared by the staff of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA). If you require further information, regarding this report, call the Elora Resource Centre at 519-846-0941. Office hours: 8:30am to 4:30pm. For technical information, call the Agricultural Information Contact Centre at 1-877-424-1300 or visit the OMAFRA website: www.ontario.ca/omafra.
SUMMER FIELD CROP ASSISTANT POSITIONS
Are you serious about making your mark, getting hands-on work experience and learning more about careers in the Ontario Public Service? This position will provide an opportunity for those interested in a career in field crop production, research or the agricultural service sector. This position will provide the opportunity to learn about diseases, insects, and agronomy of the major field crops grown in the province.
Duties
Assist with summer applied research and demonstration projects conducted by OMAFRA Field Crops Staff. Projects focus on production practices, e.g. soil health, weed control, pest management, fertility and others.
Field work could include field scouting, identification and monitoring of insects, weeds and crop diseases, soil and plant sampling and other data collection. Assist staff to gather existing literature and conduct new literature reviews, and develop written reports and presentation materials on key initiatives.
Assist in the coordination of events and programs (e.g. workshops, demonstrations, field days etc.) and set-up of field sites for events.
Office work might include providing customer service assistance, research, data collection and database management, assisting with the production of technical information such as Newsletters, updating web pages, blogs, scanning images, etc.
What we are looking for
You apply your interpersonal skills to work within a multi-disciplinary team and participate in meetings. You apply your observational skills and attention to detail to conduct research, field monitoring and data entry.
You apply your written communication skills to prepare a variety of documents (e.g. reports, factsheets, and articles). You are familiar with computer based software applications including MS Word and database management software to perform data entry, conduct analysis, prepare reports, track and compile information.
You can work in an outdoor environment with some light physical activity involved, including light lifting. You work independently or as part of a team; you plan, organize and prioritize your work to meet competing deadlines.
You are familiar with farming and crop/livestock production. You are willing to travel to rural locations (frequently not accessible by public transportation)
Requirements for hiring
Must have a minimum Ontario G2 driver’s licence. Must be a resident of Ontario and eligible to work in Ontario. Must be between 16 to 24 years of age (up to 29 with disability) on the first day of employment.
Must be currently enrolled in a secondary or post-secondary school, or have completed all academic requirements for graduation within six months of first day of employment. For returning students: you may only work in the same position for two consecutive years.
How to apply
Visit cropNews.com/2018/01/summer-field-crop-assistant-positions-apply-now.
Job post closing: Jan. 30.
