Undergraduate Turf Research Assistant

Hiring Organization: MSU Turfgrass Program
Employment type: Part-Time
Job Location: East Lansing, MI
Application Due Date: April 21, 2025

Undergraduate Turf Research Assistant

$14-17.00/hr (depending on prior work experience)

Onsite, based in East Lansing, Michigan, United States

Work in-person at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center

On Campus Student Employment

Part-time, from April 21 through October 

US work authorization required

This position entails working closely with the Michigan State University Turf Research team and assisting in research being conducted for the FIFA World Cup 2026 project.

The ideal candidate will have some turfgrass management experience (sports fields, golf courses, etc.), have an interest in learning basics of turfgrass field research, experimental setup, and will have a positive mental attitude. Scheduling will require a candidate with a flexible availability. Typical hours required in peak season can range from 20-40 hours per week (anytime between 7 AM-6 PM, with some assistance being needed for hand-watering on the weekends (typically, no more than 2-3 hours on weekends). This is a seasonal position for a candidate with availability from April – October.

Job responsibilities with include (but not be limited to) routine mowing and turf management practices, assistance with data collection,  experimental installation, and occasional heavy lifting.

REQUIREMENTS

- 21 years of age
- Enrolled as an MSU student
- Able to pass driver background check (fewer than 3 moving violations in last 3 years)
- Willing to work in variable weather conditions and early morning hours
- Participate in football tailgate cleanup 
- Wear appropriate safety footwear such as a work boots
- Have a smartphone to enter hours worked for payroll
- Dependable and a team player with a positive attitude
- Ability to lift 50 to 75 pounds with occasional lifting over 75 pounds

 REQUIRED: Prior experience in the landscaping or agricultural industry. Preferred turfgrass management experience 

Any questions about the position can be directed to bearssry@msu.edu

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