Jobs UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER

EBIO's disciplinary strengths include ecology, evolution, genetics, behavior, biology education research and systematics. Our research programs have relevance for global change, conservation biology, the spread of diseases, and revealing fundamental mechanisms underlying the structural and functional adaptations of organisms.

Research Areas: Our faculty specialize in many fields of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. Interested in learning more? Visit the various research interests of our faculty.

In the Field: Our faculty, students and researchers travel the world to conduct research in ecology and evolution. Learn more about their experiences and stories in our In the Field articles.

Greenhouse Operations:

• Be responsible for and handle all greenhouse operations in support of the research, teaching, and service missions of the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EBIO) department. Serve as the primary subject-matter expert on plant biology, greenhouse management, and controlled-environment plant cultivation.
• Independently direct and supervise greenhouse activities across three facilities (14,000 sq. ft. total) and four raised outdoor beds, applying advanced knowledge of plant biology, environmental controls, and research methodology to ensure the success of teaching and research initiatives.
• Develop, implement, and supervise strategic greenhouse operations, including long-term planning, workflow improvements, and compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Identify and solve complex, non-standard issues related to pest control, plant disease, irrigation, and environmental regulation.
• Monitor and regulate greenhouse climate controls, pest management systems, and irrigation infrastructure, making real-time adjustments to optimize plant health. Apply advanced environmental monitoring systems and computerized greenhouse controls to maintain optimal growing conditions.
• Supervise and mentor staff, student employees, and volunteers in greenhouse management, ensuring adherence to standard methodologies in plant propagation, fertilization, irrigation, sanitation, and experimental plant care. Establish training programs and standard operating procedures for greenhouse staff and researchers.
• Manage greenhouse budgets, procurement, and financial planning, being responsible for the purchase and inventory of growing media, fertilizers, specialized chemicals, and plant stock. Ensure cost-effective operations while maintaining high-quality plant care standards.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the greenhouse and faculty, researchers, and students, guiding the design and implementation of greenhouse-based teaching and research projects. Provide technical expertise on experimental plant growth requirements, environmental manipulation, and specialized cultivation techniques.
• Coordinate greenhouse maintenance, renovations, and infrastructure improvements in collaboration with Facilities Management, campus architects, and external contractors. Manage all aspects of HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and structural systems related to greenhouse operations.
• Develop and implement policies, protocols, and safety guidelines for greenhouse operations, ensuring compliance with university, state, and federal regulations. Regularly assess risk factors related to greenhouse conditions, pest control, and hazardous materials management.
• Build and deliver greenhouse reports for EBIO leadership, covering annual operational summaries, budget forecasts, and recommendations to improve greenhouse sustainability and program expansion.
• Act as a campus-wide resource on controlled-environment plant care, research support, and greenhouse facility management, guiding other university departments and external research partners on standard methodologies in plant-based research and education.

Facilitate Teaching, Research, and Outreach:

• Lead and expand greenhouse-based outreach and engagement initiatives by developing and managing partnerships with campus departments, student groups, local schools, and community organizations.
• Design and deliver tailored educational programming that supports CU Boulder’s research and service missions and deepens community engagement with plant sciences and sustainability.
• Serve as the primary liaison for faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate researchers across CU Boulder whose teaching or research activities depend on the greenhouse.
• Provide technical expertise and operational guidance to ensure appropriate use of facilities, troubleshoot research-related logistical needs, and advise on greenhouse-compatible methodologies.
• Develop and coordinate collaborative opportunities that enhance the visibility and impact of greenhouse activities across fields.
• Actively explore new research, outreach, and educational applications for greenhouse spaces and collections, supporting department initiatives and furthering campus-wide objectives in teaching and public service.
• Independently manage external greenhouse use requests from university and community groups.
• Evaluate alignment with EBIO's mission and operational capacity, determine feasibility, and oversee scheduling, communication, and support logistics.
• Exercise professional judgment to balance internal academic priorities with public-facing opportunities, in line with university policies and community guidelines.
• Design and lead public programming such as tours, open houses, workshops, and K-12 school visits that highlight the greenhouse’s collections, research activity, and educational value.
• Customize content based on audience and learning goals, demonstrating scientific knowledge to translate complex plant biology concepts into engaging experiences.
• Track and report participation metrics, community partnerships, and educational impact of outreach efforts. Share results with EBIO leadership and contribute to annual reporting, strategic assessments, and future visioning for the broader use of greenhouse resources in academic and community engagement.

Personnel Management and Supervision:

• Manage and supervise the Greenhouse personnel, including staff and student assistants.
• This position supervises ~4+ student employees annually.
• Student Waterer 1
• Student Waterer 2
• Student Pest Monitor
• Student Greenhouse Assistant
• This position supervises the following permanent employees:
• Professional Research Assistant
• Technician III

The Greenhouse Manager is responsible for:

• Hiring decisions, training, leave approval, performance management, evaluations, and disciplinary actions involving employees.
• Providing team leadership by organizing the daily activities of the Greenhouse by prioritizing and monitoring workflow.
• Oversees and is aware of the status of projects/tasks that directly relate to the activities of the work unit.
• Reviews work for accuracy as needed and ensures due dates are met.
• Ensure all personnel maintain appropriate safety standards.
• The Greenhouse Manager cultivates a dedicated base of 12+ volunteers and is responsible for screening, training, and supervising volunteer programs.

• This is an on-site position
• The work schedule is variable and will include some weekend duties.
• The incumbent must be available to deal with greenhouse emergencies.
• A valid driver's license is required for this position as CU vehicles may be driven to complete job responsibilities.

• The starting salary for this position is $60,000-$65,000. Per department guidelines, relocation expenses may be available. 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Botany, Horticulture, or related field.
• Additional appropriate experience will substitute for the degree requirement on a year-for-year basis.
• At least 3 years of previous related professional experience.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

• Must be familiar with greenhouse insect pests and diseases, and methods of control.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Proven record-keeping ability.
• Sound judgment, excellent reasoning, and decision-making skills with close attention to detail.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Botany, Horticulture, or related field.
• 4+ years of greenhouse experience in a lead or supervisory capacity.
• Knowledge of botany and horticulture.
• Knowledge of plants, their interactions with each other, and the environment.
• Proven skills for growing a wide range of plants, including many that are not commonly cultivated.
• Experience in controlled environment operations and controls.
• Experience with soil, water, pest, weed, and disease monitoring.
• Experience operating and maintaining greenhouse and growth chamber equipment.
• Experience with computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, email, and social media.
• Experience with community engagement projects.