Technical Assistant - Vine Performance

Role overview

This part-time Technical Assistant position supports the Vine Performance team at Mt Albert, Auckland, within the Plant & Food Research group of the Bioeconomy Science Institute. The work is onsite and requires a minimum commitment of 2 hours per week.

What you will do

• Support the growth and care of high-quality plants that contribute to field planting and research work.
• Help maintain greenhouse conditions that keep the plant collection healthy and productive.
• Assist with everyday greenhouse tasks and contribute to a smooth, well-managed horticultural environment.
• Oversee watering routines and irrigation systems.
• Take part in pest and disease management activities, including spraying.
• Propagate and care for kiwifruit plant collections.
• Carry out pruning, potting, training, and fertilising of plants.
• Keep greenhouse, potting, and work areas clean, safe, and organised.
• Provide support with routine greenhouse operations and deputy manager responsibilities.

What you should bring

• Practical plant husbandry abilities and a genuine interest in working with plants.
• Basic knowledge of plant care, especially watering needs; training will be provided where needed.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to solve problems sensibly.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to work well with others.
• Physical fitness and comfort working in greenhouse and outdoor environments.
• A current Growsafe certificate is helpful, though not essential; willingness to obtain it is also valued.

Benefits

• Four weeks of annual leave plus an extra 7 days of leave and generous paid parental leave.
• Access to strong retirement savings and wellbeing/health benefit options.
• Enhanced sick leave and a workplace that prioritises health and wellbeing.
• Ongoing opportunities for career development.
• Onsite childcare in Auckland.

About the organisation

AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, Plant & Food Research, and Scion have joined together to form the Bioeconomy Science Institute. The institute brings together more than 2,200 people working to strengthen New Zealand’s bioeconomy and support innovation across agriculture, horticulture, forestry, aquaculture, biotechnology, and manufacturing, while also helping protect ecosystems from biosecurity threats and climate change impacts and creating new bio-based technologies and products. This role sits within the current Plant & Food Research group.

Additional information

Vacancy number: 60344.

Applications close on Sunday, 12 July 2026 at 11:55pm.

A position description can be viewed after selecting the apply option.