Posted: January 5, 2018
The Smithsonian Institution, Smithsonian Gardens provides an exceptionally well-rounded array of experiences in its intern program thanks to the wide diversity of services it offers to the Smithsonian, the world's largest museum complex. Interns will learn skills in a broad range of horticultural endeavors from SI's expert professional staff and can provide a strong practical background to emerging professionals hoping to enter the public gardening world.
Project Description
Internships with Grounds Management Operations are designed for students who seek work-related experience in a public garden with a diverse workforce. They involve manual labor; exposure to adverse weather conditions (particularly heat and humidity); and exposure to dust, dirt, and possibly some horticultural chemicals.
Horticulture interns will have the opportunity to work with and learn from numerous members of SG's skilled staff assisting with all aspects of garden maintenance such as planting fertilizing, staking, pruning and other general garden duties, as assigned. Interns will work with horticulture supervisor and horticulture staff to diagnose and control disease, watering, planting, insect, and weed problems, and maintaining containerized specimens and hanging baskets.
• Responsible for planting, fertilizing, irrigating, staking, pruning, removing plants, and other general gardening duties, as assigned.
• Responsible for prioritizing and accomplishing daily individual assignments, as assigned.
• Participates in group work projects.
• Coordinates with Horticultural staff to determine best course of direction for control of weeds and pests.
• Learns plant identification and botanical names, as appropriate.
Interns will have the opportunity to network with a team of professional landscape architects, horticulturists and gardeners responsible for the design, installation, and maintenance of seasonal and permanent plantings on the Smithsonian campus.
Education and Experience
Applicants must be enrolled in a university horticulture or related program or recently graduated from one. Selection is based on both an evaluation of the applicant's application and available positions.
Candidates must pay for their own travel, housing, and subsistence during the period of the internship. Steel-toe safety shoes are required for certain projects. The shoes must meet ANSI Safety Standard Z41.1. Limited number of stipends available.
Application Instructions
To apply, applicants must register and submit an application online at Smithsonian On-line Academic Application System (SOLAA) at https://solaa.si.edu . On SOLAA, select the Smithsonian Gardens' internship application.
Requirements for applying to the Smithsonian Garden intern program:
- Submit an on-line application
- Two letters of recommendation
- Unofficial College transcript(s)
- Essay describing background, interest in field, career goals and chosen project
Applications for summer internships should be received no later than February 1, 2018.
Further details about the internship and how to apply can be found on our website at http://www.gardens.si.edu/get-involved/internships.html .
For additional information, contact gardens@si.edu.
