Job Description
Job ID: 41167
Faculty/Unit: Faculty of Science
Department: The Biotron
Employee Group: Non Union
Appointment Type: Contract
Appointment Status: Temporary Part-Time
Start Date: 2026/01/19
End Date: 2027/01/18
Hours per Week: 0.00 to 6.50
Hourly Rate: $20.00
About Western
Western University delivers an academic experience second to none. Western challenges the best and brightest faculty, staff and students to commit to the highest global standards. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western attracts individuals with a broad worldview, seeking to study, influence and lead in the international community. Since 1878, The Western Experience has combined academic excellence with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social and cultural growth in order to better serve our communities.
About Us
The Department of Biology is the largest academic unit within the Faculty of Science. Throughout the academic year, the Department provides courses to over 10,500 students annually, has approximately 1400 majors and an average graduate enrollment of 165-185 students. The major foci within the department is namely scientific research, graduate, undergraduate and public education. The Department seeks to find a better working balance between the development and strengthening of its research enterprise and the maintenance of its strong undergraduate program seeking to enhance and strengthen its graduate program and make meaningful contributions to existing and future collaborative programs that fall within its sphere of influence and interest. The Department is housed in six main buildings (B&GS, WSC, Collip, NCB, AFAR, and Biotron).
Responsibilities
The Technical/Research Support 1 will be responsible for watering plants and/or feeding fish and invertebrates, and performing quick visual check of their health and facilities on weekends and holidays (including Christimas break). This is to ensure the health of plants, fish and invertebrates used in teaching and research. Arm's length oversight checking vertebrate animals and other duties as required. Orientation and required safety and animal training will be provided.
***NOTE: This position will require 6.5 hours one weekend per month, plus statutory holidays. You may be requested to work additional or shortened hours in certain weeks, with advance notice or emergency situations***
Qualifications
Education:
- Undergraduate Degree in a related field (Biology, Plant Sciences) or higher level of training in Horticulture
Experience:
- Experience working in a greenhouse preferred but not essential
Skills, Abilities & Expertise:
- Must be able to work in a hot, damp environment
- Ability to work independently and effectively to meet department goals
- Reliable and dependable with the ability to consistently work assigned schedule
- Ability to follow processes with high attention to detail
Why Western?
Western offers a broad and exciting variety of part-time and temporary employment opportunities with ample room for job exploration and growth. Within our beautiful campus, you are part of a progressive work environment that promotes work/life balance including access to our state-of-the-art recreation centre. Apply for an opportunity to be part of the Western community and contribute to its success!
Applying at Western
To ensure that your application is given full consideration, please complete all relevant sections of the application. In addition, you can choose to supplement your application with a cover letter and current resume.
Consideration of applicants will include an assessment of previous performance, experience, and qualifications. Applicants should have oral communication skills in English.
Western Values Diversity
The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.
Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 519-661-2194.
Please Note:
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.
Learn more and Apply

