Summer Intern - Plant Breeding Technician

DLF Pickseed; Palmerston North; Hybrid; NZD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

PGG Wrightson Seeds in Palmerston North, NZ, is offering a fixed-term summer internship in Research & Field Support from mid-November to mid-February. This hands-on role supports seasonal field and research activities for the seed industry.

Ideal for students in agriculture, plant science, horticulture or biological sciences who want practical experience, good attention to detail, and a willingness to work outdoors. A driver licence is advantageous.

Qualifications

• Currently studying agriculture, plant science, horticulture, biological sciences or related field.
• Willingness to work outdoors with a practical, hands-on approach.
• Full driving licence would be advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Assist with field trials, crop and pasture observations, and sample collection.
• Plant propagation and facilitating crosses; greenhouse maintenance.
• Plant husbandry and supporting trial maintenance, assessments and data recording.
• Recording data accurately and supporting basic reporting or administration.
• Work safely and collaboratively with the wider team to support seasonal priorities.

Skills

Practical attitude

Attention to detail

Willingness to learn

Education

Current study in agriculture/plants

Job description

Job Family: R&D

Business Unit: Oceania

Location: Palmerston North, NZ, 4472

Summer Intern – Research & Field Support
Palmerston North | Fixed-term summer contract | Mid-November to Mid-February

PGG Wrightson Seeds is a market leader in the development of proprietary grass, legume and brassica products and is part of the global DLF Group. We work across the full seed supply chain, from research and development through to seed production, supply and on-farm support.

We are looking for a motivated summer intern to join our Palmerston North team on a fixed-term contract from approximately mid-November to mid-February. This is a great opportunity for someone studying agriculture, plant science, horticulture, biological sciences or a related field who is looking to gain practical, hands‑on experience over the summer break.

About the role

This role will support seasonal field and research activities during a busy period for the team. You will be involved in a range of practical tasks, which may include:

• Assisting with field trials, crop and pasture observations, and sample collection.
• Plant propagation and facilitating crosses
• Plant husbandry and greenhouse maintenance
• Supporting trial maintenance, plant assessments and general field work.
• Helping with seed, plant or forage sample preparation and organisation.
• Recording data accurately and supporting basic reporting or administration where required.
• Working safely and collaboratively with the wider team to support seasonal priorities.

About you

We are looking for someone who is reliable, practical and keen to learn. You do not need extensive experience, but you will need a positive attitude and a willingness to get involved in hands‑on outdoor work.

You will ideally bring:

• Current study in agriculture, plant science, horticulture, biological sciences or a related area.
• An interest in plants, farming systems, crop science or applied research.
• Good attention to detail, especially when collecting samples or recording data.
• A practical, flexible approach and willingness to work outdoors.
• A full driver licence would be advantageous.

What we offer

This is a valuable opportunity to build real‑world experience in the agricultural seed industry, work alongside knowledgeable people, and contribute to practical seasonal research and field activity.

PGG Wrightson Seeds is committed to creating a safe, inclusive and respectful workplace where people are encouraged to bring their best.