Technical Assistant Intern

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?

We’re looking for a motivated and hands-on Technical Assistant to support the Kiwifruit Breeding Centre (KBC) in Italy during the harvest period. Based in Latina, this is a great opportunity to gain practical experience across orchard, laboratory and consumer trial activities, while contributing to the development and delivery of new kiwifruit cultivars and rootstocks for Zespri.  

Based within Zespri Fresh Produce Italy and strongly connected to Zespri’s Global Supply team, this role will support the evaluation operations team across a variety of seasonal activities. You’ll be involved in collecting fruit from orchards, preparing and testing samples in the laboratory, supporting sensory and consumer trial activity, and helping ensure data, quality and safety standards are maintained throughout the season.  

Please note: This is a fixed-term contract running from 1 September 2026 to 16 December 2026. 

You will be responsible for: 

• Supporting harvest activities, including picking maturity samples, harvesting fruit, grading, packing, sensory activity, following protocols and sorting trays into cool store.  
• Preparing and completing labelling tasks, including printing, tagging and placing labels on bags and trays.  
• Conducting laboratory measurements accurately and thoroughly, in line with instructions and protocols.  
• Monitoring data inputs and highlighting any irregular, duplicate or inconsistent data.  
• Keeping workspaces clean, organised and safe, including warehouse and equipment maintenance.  
• Communicating quickly and clearly with supervisors if there are technical issues, personnel matters or mistakes that need to be resolved.  
• Contributing positively to the wider team by being flexible, collaborative and committed to health, safety and compliance. 

Ko wai koe? Who are you?

You’ll be someone who enjoys practical, hands-on work and has a genuine interest in agriculture, science and the kiwifruit industry. You’re comfortable working in changing seasonal conditions, can follow protocols accurately, and take pride in doing things properly, safely and on time.  

You’ll bring: 

• Strong attention to detail, accuracy and problem-solving ability.  
• Good interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to communicate directly and constructively in Italian. English would be an advantage.  
• The ability to work effectively with a diverse range of people across orchard, laboratory and operational environments.  
• Good organisational skills, with the ability to manage tasks, follow protocols and meet deadlines.  
• Confidence using Microsoft Excel and a willingness to learn data collection devices and database systems.  
• The physical ability to lift up to 20 kg, carry trays or crates of fruit safely, and work in all weather conditions.  
• A high school diploma and an interest in agriculture and science.  

Most importantly, you’ll bring a strong work ethic, a positive team mindset and a willingness to get stuck in during a busy and important part of the season. 

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.
• FlexWELL flexible work ethos; WFH & the office.

Apply Now! Applications close 19 August 2026.

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.