Agronomy Intern (R.D. Offutt Farms and Syngenta)

About the role

R.D. Offutt Farms and Syngenta, agriculture leaders, are partnering to create a unique internship opportunity for college students pursuing a career in agriculture. This hands-on learning experience will immerse selected students in real projects and solutions, focusing on the nutritional value and sustainability of the potato, crop development, pest management, soil and petiole sampling, and social responsibility in agriculture. Interns will gain a vertically integrated farm experience—from seed production to processing—and work alongside industry experts from R.D. Offutt Farms, Syngenta, and university professors supporting the potato industry.

Responsibilities

• Assist with crop development, insect, weed, and disease scouting, soil sampling, petiole sampling, and social responsibility initiatives in agriculture.
• Complete an individual agronomy project and field agronomy problem-solving tasks by the end of the internship.
• Gain on-the-job experience learning from industry experts at R.D. Offutt Farms, Syngenta, and university faculty.
• Present an individual project to leadership (15-minute presentation and Q&A).
• Receive presentation training through Syngenta and access Syngenta Campus, Learning Edge resources, and training.
• Maintain a clean work area and care for all tools, machines, and equipment.
• Identify and communicate solutions in your area of responsibility.
• Work independently as well as collaboratively with team members and management.
• Follow all safety rules, regulations, and company policies as outlined in manuals and the employee handbook.
• Conduct yourself professionally in the presence of customers and the community to represent R.D. Offutt Farms and Syngenta.
• Maintain positive and professional working relationships with peers, management, and support resources, emphasizing teamwork and customer service.
• Perform all other duties as assigned by management in a professional and efficient manner.

Requirements

• Enrolled in an approved agriculture program or another program approved in writing by R.D. Offutt Farms and Syngenta.
• Maintain an acceptable GPA and attendance while in the program.
• Proactively communicate with management, including providing transcripts after each quarter or semester.
• Adhere to academic policies, rules, and regulations of your higher learning institution.
• Agriculture experience preferred.
• Strong computer skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to assemble and perform some maintenance functions on equipment.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Valid work authorization to work in the U.S. without company sponsorship.

Benefits

• Training and development opportunities.
• Opportunities to grow within the organization.
• Access to Syngenta Campus and Learning Edge resources and training.
• Presentation training through Syngenta.

Pay

$16–$19 per hour.