Natural Resources Intern - Agriculture

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or any other protected status in employment. Individuals of Indian ancestry and Veterans will be given preference by law in initial employment or re-employment.   

Position Purpose:          

Reporting to the Greenhouse Manager, the Natural Resources Intern - Agriculture is responsible for assisting with cultivating plants for various research and commercial purposes. They are required to grow vegetable crops and cut flowers using traditional and modern techniques under the direction and supervision of the Greenhouse Manager, and complete other agricultural tasks, as assigned. These tasks will include training and guidance from various staff members from the Department of Natural Resources.

Responsibilities/Duties/Functions/Tasks 

• Learn and follow safety policies and regulations.
• Regularly scout for pests and disease and learn to use appropriate control methods when necessary.
• Inspect the tractors, irrigation equipment, hand tools, implements, and other farm facilities to check for disrepair and maintain them properly.
• Clean and maintain all farm equipment, and be familiar with the operation of tractors, mowers, and other appropriate farm implements.
• Understand appropriate harvest and packing methods for a wide variety of vegetable and floriculture crops.
• Be familiar with market-garden style cultivation and traditional row-based cultivation.
• Understand the benefits and implementation of cover crops, plastic mulch, row covers, and insect netting.
• Undertake any other responsibilities as said by the organization.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Observe and participate in the process of growing vegetable crops at the farm.
• Learn to identify appropriate vegetable crop species and germplasm resources.
• Develop and/or identify appropriate production requirements (i.e. fertilizers, plastic or organic mulches, coverings, plant spacing, light requirements, harvest interval, etc.) for specific vegetable production systems.
• Follow standard protocols for vegetable crop production and propagation for use at the farm.
• Become well-versed in the various disease and pest control techniques by using pesticides and medicines. They should have good management skills and be good supervisors and trainers.
• Maintains an inventory of chemicals.
• Collects, measures, evaluates, and verifies samples and supporting records.
• Develop new knowledge on vegetable crop production and propagation.
• They should have a basic knowledge of computers so that the records can be properly maintained.
• Good communication and interaction skills.
• They should be able to work in damp and warm conditions.

Education and Experience:

• None required

Certifications:

• Valid Driver’s License and Insurance.

Conditions of Employment:

The Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma operates a drug-free workplace.

• May be required to submit to and pass applicable drug tests and background checks.
• Adhere to all work rules, policies & procedures, and safety standards. 
• Efficiently follow general shop safety rules and regulations. Maintain a safe and healthy work environment, including wearing Personal Protective Equipment.

Work Requirements:

Position involves prolonged sitting, stooping, bending, lifting, or carrying up to 50 pounds on a daily basis. Work is generally performed in an outdoor environment with varying levels of lighting, air quality, noise, and/or temperature.