Horticulture Intern

Job Description

The Horticulture Internship is looking for individuals with a strong passion for plants and public horticulture. This 9-month internship is responsible for the physical maintenance of the Arboretum. Interns receive hands-on training in all aspects of garden management and care of the living collections. Specific emphasis is placed on refining a wide range of practical horticulture skills. Interns also assist in supervising volunteers. Through monthly educational opportunities, interns gain knowledge and insight into all other aspects of managing a public garden.

This Internship will last approximately 9 months, is classified as Part-Time, and will pay $15.34 an hour. Those selected should expect to work approximately 40 hours a week depending on operational need.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with all garden tasks including weeding, pruning, planting, mulching and turf care.
• Learn to properly identify weeds and implement control methods.
• Demonstrate pruning skills using CODIT philosophy and assist in formative pruning of the Arboretum's plant collection.
• Demonstrate knowledge of proper pesticide use--handling, mixing, applying and clean up of pesticide equipment.
• Take part in watering plants and containers on a rotating weekend schedule.
• Participate in the Horticulture Department's project days.
• Learn to operate the following garden machinery:
• Small Equipment Operation - push mower, string trimmer, leaf blower, snow thrower
• Large Equipment Operation - golf cart, riding mower, backhoe, tractor, dump truck
• Arborist Equipment Operation - chainsaw, chipper
• Perform additional duties as requested
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Qualifications/Requirements

• A strong academic background in horticulture or closely related field,
• Be able and willing to communicate with Arboretum visitors,
• Be able and willing to work independently and as part of a team,
• Be able and willing to work in all weather conditions,
• Be able and willing to lift at least 25 lbs.,
• A valid driver's license is required.
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Work Environment

The Horticulture Internship is a hands-on program that assists in the care of maintenance of the Arboretum's extensive gardens and plant collections. Outdoor work is required from March-November.

APPLY ONLINE BY DEC 29: https://wd1.myworkdaysite.com/en-US/recruiting/upenn/careers-at-penn/job/Horticulture-Intern---Morris-Arboretum---Gardens_JR00082645