Public Garden Horticulture Internship

Position Overview: The Public Garden Horticulture Internship at PHS Meadowbrook Farm is open to current horticulture students and public gardeners with at least 2-3 years of experience. The Horticulture Intern will work alongside the gardeners and receive hands-on training in properly maintaining the public gardens. Upon completion of the program, the student will have acquired practical horticultural knowledge and skills. This internship requires 10 hours/week and will run from March to June.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Learn how to identity and grow a wide variety of plant material; woody plants, perennials, annuals, tropicals
• Assist the Garden team with planting of seasonal garden displays, as well as additional plant material
• Maintain established plantings through watering, fertilizing, weeding, staking, deadheading
• Learn proper pruning techniques; trees, shrubs, topiary, espalier, shearing etc.
• Weeding and invasive plant identification and control
• Gas powered equipment operation including string trimmers, blowers, augers
• Work alongside staff and volunteers
• Follow all safety guidelines and horticulture best practices
• Promote a positive guest experience
• All other duties as assigned

Qualifications/Specification:

• Minimum degree required: N/A 
• Years of experience: Current horticulture student or 2 years of experience as a public gardener
• Licenses/Certifications: N/A
• Driver’s License: Valid license required
• Knowledges, Skills, Abilities required for success:
  1. Basic horticulture knowledge with willingness to learn more
  2. Detail oriented with strong organizational and communication skills
  3. Able to stand and work for long periods of time
  4. Ability to lift 35 lbs. or more on a regular basis
  5. Ability to work in all temperature and weather conditions
  6. Ability to work independently as well in a team setting
  7. Proficient with basic computer software, including Microsoft Office

Physical Demands: This role can be physically demanding. You may be required to stand for up to 8 hours a day and lift 50+ lbs. Must be able to work in all weather conditions, and your position may require operating a motor vehicle. 

Standard Hours (including travel, evening, and weekend hours): PHS’s standard office hours are 9 AM to 5 PM at team member’s designated workspace. Some teams and positions work alternate hours because of the nature of their role at PHS. Your Business Unit’s Working Norms document will identify alternative hours, if applicable.

EEO NOTICE: At PHS, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws.