U.S. National Arboretum internship

The mission of the U.S. National Arboretum is to enhance the economic, environmental, and aesthetic value of ornamental plants through research, conservation, and display. Horticulture interns work in one or more of Arboretum’s gardens or collections. An internship project, which is presented to staff, volunteers, and stakeholders at the end of the internship, is required. In addition, interns participate in professional development opportunities and educational field trips. Description: The National Herb Garden at the USNA is the largest designed herb garden in the United States containing over 800 taxa, including a collection of antique roses. The successful applicant will be supervised by the National Herb Garden’s curator and gardener. This Internship is approximately one-year long and will begin in April or May, 2022. Position is full-time, but part-time may be considered (e.g., incumbent is enrolled in classes). This internship is paid by stipend through The Herb Society of America (approx.. $18/hour). College credit may be arranged by students and is encouraged. Qualifications: Applicants need to have either completed course work or have acquired practical experience in horticulture or a related field. Basic gardening skills/understanding, good “people skills,” and the ability to work independently are essential. Duties & Working Conditions: Intern will be responsible for the typical duties of working in a public garden by assisting staff in the development and maintenance of the garden. Duties include general gardening tasks that provide proper environmental conditions, which include planting, watering, mowing, mulching, weeding, pruning, greenhouse work, including potting and plant propagation, and working alongside volunteers. Intern will assist staff with updating records and labels of plants in collections. Internship will involve heavy lifting, repetitive tasks, and exposure to extreme heat and humidity. Interest in herbs as “useful” plants is required. For the months of August through October, the intern’s schedule will include one weekend day. To apply: Please send a cover letter indicating availability, resume, references, and transcripts (unofficial are acceptable) via email to USNA.Internships@usda.gov. Questions? Contact the internship office at (202) 245-4563 or USNA.Internships@usda.gov.