Interns – Nursery and Seed Systems ( 3 positions)

WHO WE ARE

At Trees for the Future (TREES), we believe farmers have the power to transform the world. For over 30 years, we have been a global leader in agroforestry training, partnering with farming families to build vibrant economies, sustainable food systems, and thriving ecosystems. Through our signature Forest Garden Approach—a proven nature-based solution—farmers restore their land, plant thousands of trees, and grow diverse crops, breaking cycles of climate change and generational poverty. By reclaiming their agency, farmers are creating new possibilities for their families, communities, and the environment. Active in Kenya, Mali, Senegal, Tanzania, and Uganda, TREES has planted over 350 million trees to date. Joining our passionate, collaborative team means empowering farmers to lead lasting change for people and the planet.

TREES embarked on its mission in Tanzania in 2015, strategically focusing on five pivotal regions across the mainland: Mwanza, Simiyu, Singida, Tabora, and Iringa. Throughout this journey, we have collaborated with farmers across 11 District Councils, empowering them with the resources and knowledge necessary for sustainable environmental and agricultural practices. Through these efforts, we significantly contribute to sustainable food security, environmental conservation, thriving ecosystems, and the reduction of poverty at the household level. By adopting the Forest Garden Approach, farmers are leading the charge for sustainable development and creating brighter futures for their communities.

Learn more at trees.org.

THE ROLE

TREES Tanzania is seeking motivated and committed recent Forestry graduates to support operations at our central tree nursery and seed bank in Nyakabindi. This internship offers hands-on technical experience in tree seed systems, nursery management, and vegetative propagation, while contributing to the production of high-quality planting materials for smallholder farmers.

To ensure focused learning and meaningful contribution, interns will be assigned to one of three available positions.

1.    Seed Bank & Quality Management Intern (1 position)

 Key Focus: Seed sourcing, processing, testing, and storage systems

Key Responsibilities:

·        Support seed sourcing, selection, and documentation of seed origin

·        Assist with seed processing (cleaning, drying, and grading)

·        Conduct germination and viability tests and maintain accurate records

·        Support seed storage management, including labelling and inventory control

·        Maintain seed traceability systems and batch records

·        Assist with monitoring seed quality parameters (e.g., moisture content and storage conditions)

2.    Nursery Operations & Propagation Intern (1 position)

 Key Focus: Seedling production and vegetative propagation

Key Responsibilities:

·        Support nursery operations, including sowing, transplanting, potting, and watering

·        Assist with nursery maintenance (weeding, shading, pruning, and media preparation)

·        Participate in grafting and budding activities under supervision

·        Support pest and disease monitoring and basic control measures

·        Assist with the maintenance of mother blocks and scion sources

·        Contribute to the implementation of nursery hygiene and biosecurity protocols

3. Data Management & Quality Assurance Intern (1 Position)

 Key Focus: Data systems, performance tracking, and quality control

Key Responsibilities:

·        Record nursery and seed bank activities (e.g., germination rates, survival rates, and production data)

·        Maintain digital and physical records for seed and seedling inventories

·        Support data entry, cleaning, and basic data analysis

·        Assist in tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) for nursery operations

·        Support seedling quality control processes prior to distribution

·        Assist with the preparation of routine reports and summaries

Common Responsibilities (All Interns)

·        Support seedling preparation and distribution activities

·        Participate in field visits and monitoring planted seedlings

·        Assist with composting and preparation of nursery substrates

·        Support farmer training sessions or demonstration activities

·        Document lessons learned and best practices

·        Perform other duties as assigned to support nursery and seed bank operations

 QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

·        Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Forestry from a recognised institution

·        Must be a recent graduate and eligible under National Internship Guidelines

·        Strong interest in practical forestry, nursery, and seed systems

·        Willingness to work in field-based and outdoor environments

·        High attention to detail, particularly in data recording and labelling

·        Basic computer skills (Microsoft Word and Excel)

·        Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team

·        Good organisational and time management skills

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND BENEFITS

TREES is an International Organisation that strives to be the best place for those who want to make an impact on the lives of the farmers we serve. We believe that the diversity of people contributes to excellence. TREES values collaboration and teamwork that fosters increased engagement and innovation for professional growth.

We offer a monthly stipend, structured mentorship and hands-on technical training, practical experience in nursery and seed system management and exposure to community-based forestry and smallholder farmer engagement 

APPLY

If this opportunity speaks to you, please apply with 1) a cover letter that explains why TREES’ work excites you and why this role is a fit for you, and 2) your resume by COB 7 May 2026. Ensure that both documents are shared as PDF or Word documents. We review applications on a rolling basis.

Trees for the Future is an equal-opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, colour, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, marital status, veteran status, pregnancy, parental status, genetic information, or other characteristics or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.

We embrace and value diverse skill sets and backgrounds. We are a community of leaders who are proud to represent many different nationalities, races, ethnicities, socio-economic statuses, religions, genders, and other identities. Our diversity as a community is our strength, driving our ability to be empathetic, visionary, and effective leaders.

Due to the high volume of applications received, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.