Temporary Blueberry Research Internship - Castle Hayne, NC

Temporary Blueberry Research Internship - Castle Hayne, NC

This internship offers students and recent graduates meaningful, hands‑on experience in applied horticultural research at the NCSU Horticultural Crops Research Station in Castle Hayne, NC, located near Wilmington. Selected candidates will support an active blueberry breeding program focused on developing varieties suited for mechanical harvest. Day‑to‑day responsibilities span greenhouse, shade house, and field environments and include plant care, pollination, transplanting, pruning, weeding, fertilizing, harvesting, and field data collection.

Interns will also contribute to inventory management and office‑based tasks such as data entry and image labeling in support of an ongoing machine learning project — making this a well‑rounded opportunity for those with interests in both plant science and data. Attention to detail, comfort with repetitive tasks, and a willingness to work outdoors in varying conditions are important for success in this role.

Scheduling is flexible between 7 am and 6 pm on weekdays. Hours begin at 10–20 per week from September through March, increasing to 20 or more per week from April through August. Candidates who can commit through the core blueberry season (May–July) are especially encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to candidates pursuing degrees in horticulture, biology, or related fields, and to those who demonstrate a strong commitment to learning and collaboration.

10–35 hrs per week, M-F 8 am – 5 pm as needed. Some weekends may be required.

• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs on a routine basis
• Willingness to work in hot, humid, buggy conditions
• Ability to perform redundant tasks with care and to completion

• Plant care
• Using laboratory equipment such as scales, balances, and autoclaves

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability‑related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919‑513‑0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E‑Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.