Internship – Plant Health - Minnesota in Newport, Minnesota at Bailey Nurseries, Inc
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Job Description
Location: 2027 Spring - Minnesota
Duration: 10–15 weeks (Spring/Summer)
Schedule: Full-time, seasonal (40 hours/week)
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt – Paid Internship
Housing: Offered in some locations based on availability
Ready to get out of the classroom and into the field? If you’re passionate about plants, science, agronomy, horticulture, or agriculture, this internship offers a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience with one of the country's leading nursery growers.
At Bailey Nurseries, we believe our people are the root of our success. As a Plant Health Intern, you'll play an active role in protecting and improving the health of millions of plants while working alongside experienced professionals who are eager to share their knowledge.
This isn't a coffee-and-copy internship. You'll be in the field every day, diagnosing plant issues, scouting for pests and diseases, operating equipment, and helping make decisions that directly impact crop health and quality. You'll gain firsthand exposure to the science, technology, and strategy behind plant health management while exploring potential career paths in horticulture.
What You'll Experience- Work directly with our Plant Health team to monitor and improve plant quality across the nursery.
- Learn how integrated pest and disease management programs are developed and implemented.
- Gain hands-on experience with crop protection applications, field scouting, and data collection.
- Visit the University of Minnesota Disease Clinic and learn how plant health professionals diagnose complex plant issues.
- Develop technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills that will prepare you for a future career in horticulture, agriculture, plant science, or environmental sciences.
- Scout plants for insects, diseases, weeds, and other plant health concerns.
- Help identify problems and recommend treatment options.
- Assist with planning, setting up, applying, and documenting crop protection sprays.
- Operate equipment, including tractors and sprayers (one of our interns' favorite experiences!).
- Test soil and growing media for pH and EC levels.
- Collect and analyze plant health data to support decision-making.
- Transport plant samples for diagnostic testing and evaluation.
- Record observations, treatments, and results using industry software and reporting tools.
- Support other nursery operations such as watering, weed management, and quality assessments.
- Current student pursuing a degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Biology, or a related field.
- Curious, motivated, and eager to learn in a fast-paced outdoor environment.
- Strong observation and problem-solving skills.
- Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.
- Basic proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.
- A positive attitude and willingness to jump in wherever needed.
🌱 Gain meaningful, hands-on industry experience
🌱 Work directly with experienced plant health professionals
🌱 Operate equipment and learn practical field skills
🌱 Build your professional network and career knowledge
🌱 See the direct impact of your work on plant quality and production
🌱 Explore potential careers in plant health, crop production, research, and horticulture
If you're looking for an internship that combines science, technology, problem-solving, and plenty of time outdoors, we'd love to help you grow with us. Apply today and discover what Plant Health at Bailey Nurseries is all about.
The internship program begins June 1st through September 1st. There is flexibility on the beginning and end dates to accommodate school schedules. This posting remains open year-round, and eligible applicants will be reviewed and contacted prior to the start of the next internship cycle.
Disclaimer: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check
Bailey Nurseries is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.
Employment with Bailey Nurseries is at-will and may be terminated at any time by either party, in accordance with applicable law.
If you need assistance or reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact our HR team.