Assistant Horticulturalist/Educator Intern

The City of Portsmouth is seeking four (4) Horticulturalists/Educator Interns for the Summer of 2026! Interns will support the Parks and Greenery staff in maintaining and enhancing public landscapes throughout the city, with a primary focus on Prescott Park. This internship offers hands-on experience in horticulture, landscape maintenance, and public education with working alongside a skilled Horticulturalist and municipal staff. 

Hours: A full-time schedule of 40 hours a week is expected during the summer, with the possibility for part-time work in the spring and/or fall. 
Schedule: Monday-Friday: 7:30am-3:30pm with flexibly during the school calendar year.
Pay rate: $19.00 per hour.

NATURE OF WORK
Interns will assist the Highway Department Parks and Greenery staff performing a variety of field work throughout the City of Portsmouth with a focus at Prescott Park.  Candidates for this position will be required to work outdoors.

SUPERVISION
Work is performed under the general supervision of the Parks and Greenery Foreman, Horticulturalist, or their designee.  Tasks are assigned daily with direction provided by Horticulturalist.  

 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustration of the various types of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to, or extension of, the position.
 

1. Prepare planting beds for planting.
 

2. Plant annuals and perennials throughout the City of Portsmouth.
 

3. Weeding and cultivation of gardens throughout the City of Portsmouth.
 

4. Directing tours of Prescott Park Gardens and interfacing with park patrons.

5. Perform other duties as assigned by Supervisor. 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
An incumbent in this position consistently demonstrates a(n)…
 

1. Interest and knowledge of Horticulture.

2. Desire to learn or hone existing skills.

3. Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

4. Stamina to perform strenuous labor for most of the workday.

5. Ability to work as part of a team or independently.

 

6. Ability to communicate effectively with the general public, City staff, and government officials at all levels.
 

ENVIRONMENT, WORKING CONDITIONS, PHYSICAL AND MENTAL EFFORT
Work is performed outdoors in various weather conditions.  The position requires lifting up to 50 pounds unassisted.  Work will be performed in parks, roadside, or any other City owned property.  Due to the nature of work, the position requires mental clarity and awareness as accidents may occur that can lead to property damage or injury.

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Candidates currently majoring in Horticulture, Environmental Science, Wildlife and Conservation, Biology, Agriculture, Sustainability, Earth Sciences, or related are encouraged to apply.  Previous experience is not required as training will be provided.  

Candidate must be a minimum of 18 years of age and have a valid driver's license with a good driving record. 

 

(The above descriptions are illustrative.  They are intended as guides for personnel actions and are not complete itemizations of all facets of any job.)

 

DISCLAIMER
The essential functions and duties described herein are normal for this position. They are intended as an illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if work is similarly related or a logical assignment to or extension of the position. Other duties may be required and assigned by the supervisor. The City of Portsmouth is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. The City is committed to providing access to equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact our Human Resources Director by phone 603-610-4478.

 

APPLICATION SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
Finalist must complete pre-employment screening, drug testing, & background check.