Technical Assistant

Kō wai mātou? Who are we?

Zespri is more than simply the world's single-largest marketer of kiwifruit. We like to think of ourselves as fruit on a mission and as rebels with a cause: to help people, communities and the environment around the world thrive through the goodness of kiwifruit. We are proudly the world's largest marketer of kiwifruit, selling kiwifruit in more than 50 countries. We work with around 2,800 New Zealand and 1,500 international growers and post-harvest companies to source the best-quality Zespri Kiwifruit which we supply through our distribution partners to wholesale and retail customers. We are one of New Zealand's best-known international brands, dedicated to creating sustainable long-term value for growers.

He aha te mahi? What's the role?

The Kiwifruit Breeding Centre (KBC) in Italy is looking for a motivated team member to assist with development and delivery of new kiwifruit cultivars and rootstocks to our parent company Zespri.

Based in Cisterna, reporting to the Research Associate, the Technical Assistant will provide assistance to the evaluation operations team across the full range of routine operations during the harvest period. This will include fruit collection in the orchard and testing fruit in the laboratory and in consumer trials. The role gives an opportunity to understand research and commercial kiwifruit activities in Italy.

This is an internship from September to early December (3 months).

Accountabilities include:

The Technical Assistant will ensure orchard and laboratory tasks are completed competently during seasonally dictated timeframes, by following instruction and direction on some or all of the following tasks:

• Undertaking all harvest tasks, including picking maturity samples, harvesting fruit, grading, packing, sensory, following protocols, and sorting trays into cool store
• Undertaking the preparation for labelling tasks, including printing, tagging, or placing labels on bags and trays
• Conducting workplace maintenance, including keeping the warehouse clean and organizing equipment
• Maintaining personal and team health and safety at all times
• Any other tasks as requested by the Supervisor or Manager
• Checking for consistency across all tasks

Laboratory specific requirements

• Conducting all measurements as per instructions and protocols
• Ensuring each fruit/plant sample is assessed accurately, thoroughly, and within a timely manner
• Always ensuring and maintaining attention to detail
• Monitoring data inputs at all times, by highlighting any irregular data, duplicate data or anything inconsistent
• Communicating quickly and efficiently any technical, personnel problems or mistakes with the supervisor
• Ensuring compliance and control processes are followed
• Completing taste requirements for sensory as directed by the Lab Supervisor

Contributing to the Team and wider Zespri Team by:

• Being a great team player and showing strong communication skills
• Constantly adapting to changing priorities and tasks
• Showing flexibility and collaboration
• Ensure health and safety and general compliance with Zespri policy

Ko wai koe? Who are you?

We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented individual with a high school diploma and a strong interest in agriculture and science.

• You bring a proactive approach to problem-solving and demonstrate high attention to detail and accuracy in your work.
• You communicate effectively and constructively with colleagues and suppliers, particularly in Italian, and consider English an asset.
• You thrive in diverse environments and enjoy collaborating with people from various backgrounds.
• You are organized, capable of managing multiple tasks, and committed to meeting deadlines. Physically, you’re able to handle the demands of laboratory and field work, including lifting and working in all weather conditions, while following safety protocols.
• You’re comfortable using Microsoft Excel and open to learning new technologies and systems. With a strong work ethic and a sense of accountability, you contribute positively to team goals and support initiatives that align with KBC’s strategy and vision.

He aha e tika ai a Zespri? Why Zespri?

Our people are what makes our culture so irresistible and uniquely Zespri. We are a passionate and mighty team of 850+ employees in 23 different locations globally. Working at Zespri is an opportunity to join a fast-paced, culture-driven environment unlike any other. We want people who share our values of making it happen, creating real connections, and leaving a legacy. Join us in shaping our future and be part of a truly unique organisation.

• Competitive overall remuneration package

Tono mai inaianei! Apply Now! Applications close 21/07/2025

At Zespri, we understand the importance of diverse perspectives and experiences, and a fair hiring process is the first step to getting there. We want to attract a diverse range of people and encourage everyone from all backgrounds and walks of life to apply. Please let us know if you need any assistance or reasonable adjustments to take part in the recruitment and selection process by reaching out to our Talent Acquisition team via email at careers@zespri.com .

Agency

Zespri will not accept applications or contact from any temporary staffing agency, placement service or professional recruiter for this vacancy (“Agency”).

Where Zespri requires the support of an agency to fulfil a vacancy, we will proactively seek this support from our network of Agencies.We respectfully ask that you do not contact Zespri or any of its affiliates/employees regarding vacancies, and reserve the right not to reply.

Zespri will not be responsible for, and will not pay, any fees, commissions or other payments related to such unsolicited resumes.