Assistant Instructor-Fixed Term

Position Summary

There are 3 positions open, one at each of these different locations: Muskegon Community College in Muskegon, MI., West Shore Community College in Scottville, MI, and Southwestern Michigan College in Dowagiac, MI. 

Instructional responsibilities include teaching HRT 206 - Training and Pruning Plants (1 credit) for the Institute of Agricultural Technology for spring semester. The course will be delivered at one of the above locations, The course dates are January 12, 2026 - April 26, 2026. Class meets weekly, face to face for 1 hour and 50 minutes. This position is planned to reoccur every other spring semester in the even years.

Course description:

Principles and techniques of pruning for landscape and nursery ornamentals, Christmas tree production, tree fruits, and small fruits. Pruning practices, equipment, and basic large tree care techniques 

Course Objectives:

1. Understand plant anatomy and biology as it pertains to training and pruning techniques
2. Evaluate and apply training and pruning practices to trees, shrubs and perennials in landscape and nursery industries and tree fruit and small fruit production systems.
3. Understand and explain the economic importance of training and pruning.
4. Recognize and understand climbing techniques and pruning as it relates to large tree care 

Position is planned to recur every Spring Semester

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Bachelors -Horticulture or related field

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor's degree in horticulture or related field. 

Experience in development and assessment of learning outcomes

Undergraduate teaching experience and a passion for teaching

Required Application Materials

Applicants may apply for one of these positions via the link: https://jobs.msu.edu

Include:

• Letter of application/interest and for what location
• Current resume
• list of three references
• A statement of experience related to the course

Special Instructions

Questions about this position can be directed to Jeno Rivera (jeno@msu.edu), Director of the Institute of Agricultural Technology

Review of Applications Begins On

11/10/2025

Website

IAT.MSU.EDU

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.