Corn Breeding Research Intern
Seward, NE · On-site
Valuable experience related to the agriculture industry, professional development, summer project ... * Assist with detasseling Beck's top cross plots Corn Agronomy Module * Plant Growth and ...
Corn Breeding Research Intern
Seward, NE · On-site
Valuable experience related to the agriculture industry, professional development, summer project ... * Assist with detasseling Beck's top cross plots Corn Agronomy Module * Plant Growth and ...
Summer Detasseling information
See salary details
$7.69 - $9.03
1% of jobs
$9.03 - $10.36
3% of jobs
$10.36 - $11.69
7% of jobs
$11.69 - $13.02
11% of jobs
$13.31 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.02 - $14.36
14% of jobs
The median wage is $15.26 / hr.
$14.36 - $15.69
21% of jobs
$15.69 - $17.02
17% of jobs
$17.19 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$17.02 - $18.36
11% of jobs
$18.36 - $19.69
8% of jobs
$19.69 - $21.02
4% of jobs
$21.02 - $22.36
3% of jobs
$7
$15
$22
How much do summer detasseling jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer detasseling in the United States is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is summer detasseling?
Summer detasseling is a seasonal agricultural job where workers remove the tassels, or pollen-producing flowers, from the tops of corn plants. This process is essential for hybrid seed corn production, as it prevents self-pollination and ensures cross-pollination between selected corn varieties. Detasseling usually takes place during the summer months and is often done by teenagers or young adults looking for temporary work. The job can be physically demanding, involving walking through cornfields in various weather conditions, but it provides valuable work experience and the opportunity to earn money during the summer break.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a summer detasseler, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Summer Detasseler, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work outdoors for extended periods, often requiring no formal education but sometimes a minimum age requirement. Familiarity with basic agricultural tools and safety gear is beneficial, though most training is provided on the job. Teamwork, reliability, and a strong work ethic are crucial soft skills for success in this fast-paced, physically demanding environment. These skills and qualities ensure the work is completed efficiently, safely, and to the high standard necessary for successful crop production.
What are some common challenges faced during a summer detasseling job and how can workers best prepare for them?
Summer detasseling often involves working outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, humidity, and rain. Workers may also experience physical fatigue from walking long rows and repetitive arm movements. To prepare, it’s important to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, bring plenty of water, and use sunscreen and insect repellent. Teamwork is essential, as crews typically rely on communication and coordination to cover large fields efficiently. Building stamina and maintaining a positive attitude can help you succeed and make the experience more enjoyable.
What is the difference between Summer Detasseling vs Summer Farm Worker?
| Aspect | Summer Detasseling | Summer Farm Worker |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | No formal certifications required | No formal certifications required |
| Work Environment | Field-based, outdoor, seasonal | Field-based, outdoor, seasonal |
| Industry Usage | Agriculture, specifically corn cultivation | Various agricultural tasks, including planting, harvesting |
| Job Focus | Removing tassels from corn plants to improve hybrid seed production | General farm tasks like planting, harvesting, tending crops |
Summer Detasseling involves removing corn tassels to aid hybrid seed production, requiring no certifications. In contrast, Summer Farm Workers perform a variety of outdoor agricultural tasks. Both roles are seasonal, outdoor, and part of the agriculture industry, but they focus on different aspects of farming operations.
More about Summer Detasseling jobs
What states have the most Summer Detasseling jobs?
States with the most job openings for Summer Detasseling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Summer Detasseling jobs look for?
The top searched job categories for Summer Detasseling jobs are:
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Job description
Duration: Paid Internship from May - August 2027.
Housing: Furnished housing or stipend provided.
What to expect: Valuable experience related to the agriculture industry, professional development, summer project, etc.
Purpose and Scope
Intern will be responsible for learning about and assisting Beck's Breeding team in inbred and hybrid development. Interns will have the opportunity to take part in several facets of corn breeding, product development, inbred evaluation and research. The internship will start in mid May and last until mid August. The internship may be able to count toward college credit, depending on the candidate's school curriculum.
Responsibilities
Corn Breeding Module
- Work with the Breeding team taking notes on inbreds. The intern will learn the major aspects of corn breeding, inbred observation, development and testing. The intern will be responsible for managing several inbred testing and observation plots. They will also assist in taking inbred and hybrid notes.
- Assist with pollination of Beck's corn breeding nurseries
- Assist with detasseling Beck's top cross plots
- Plant Growth and Development
- Interns will learn how to monitor test plots for emergence issues, recording and evaluating stand counts, determine stage of growth for development, evaluating and recording overall plant growth.
- Plant Pathology
- Learn about the major diseases of corn and evaluate inbreds for their susceptibility
- Seed preparation
- Assist with preparing seed for this season's test plots and nurseries. Interns will package seed and sort into planting order to help prepare for planting
- Plot Planting and Data Collection
- Assist in planting test plots and research nursery. Assist in collecting required notes and other agronomic data
- Travel with Beck's staff to outlying locations to assist with planting test plots. The intern will learn how Beck's manages its research and testing program
- Other Duties assigned by the members of the Breeding team or any other duties for the benefit of Beck's Hybrids.
Education and training:
- Sophomore or higher in a college or university program, exceptional Freshman may be considered
- Only candidates studying Plant Breeding, Genetics, Plant Pathology, Agronomy or Plant Science will be considered
- Must have an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Farm background and general farm knowledge would be helpful but not required
- This is a safety sensitive position
- Possess a positive attitude
- Ability to establish priorities, possess a self-starter mentality, and work well independently and as a team member
- Ability to work outside and tolerate high temperatures, high humidity, rain, and muddy conditions
- Interns must provide own transportation to Beck facility near Goehner, NE
- Knowledge of data analysis tools would be preferred
- Availability of housing reimbursements
- Overtime required
- Overnight travel required
** In an effort to provide a safer, drug-free workplace for employees, all full-time applicants to whom offers of employment are made must submit to a drug test and background check, subject to applicable local, state, or federal laws or regulations. Employment at Beck's is contingent upon passing these pre-employment screenings.