INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
Horticultural Internship
Number Available: 7
Position: Paid
Application Deadline: March 1, 2024
Duration: Summer, May 28 – August 23, 2024
The 691-acre Bayard Cutting Arboretum was the former home of William Cutting, now a New York State Park with a mission “to provide an oasis of beauty and quiet for the pleasure, rest and refreshment of those who delight in outdoor beauty; and to bring about a greater appreciation and understanding of the value and importance of informal planting.” The current collection of fir, spruce, pine, cypress, hemlock, yew and other lesser-known conifers is one of the most extensive to be found in the United States. Perennial borders, woodland trails, coastal gardens, natural wetlands, forest, and a CSA farm can also be found in the arboretum’s vast acreage.
Horticultural interns will work in all areas of the gardens and participate in a wide range of horticultural experiences. Daily activities will involve working directly with the garden’s staff, assisting with planting, watering, weeding, pruning, mulching, and overall garden maintenance. Typically, interns will rotate around the arboretum working in selected collections. Interns will gain hands-on experience stressing plant identification, garden maintenance strategies, and sound horticultural practices. Educational opportunities are provided through training workshops given throughout the internship, as well as field trips to other gardens, nurseries, and research facilities. Interns also have the option of completing an independent project which will be done under the advisement of a staff member.
Knowledge/Skills
• Basic knowledge of plant identification and taxonomy, as well as horticultural techniques.
• Previous experience in a related field or coursework in a related field is preferred.
• Must be able to interact positively with staff, volunteers, and the public.
• Ability to work as part of a team and independently.
Essential Functions
• Willingness to perform physically demanding tasks in all weather conditions, sometimes for an extended period.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds repeatedly.
• Detail-oriented and able to perform horticultural tasks to a high standard.
• Ability to operate small engine machines and hand tools safely and effectively.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
Application Guidelines
Horticultural internships are open to anyone interested in a career in horticulture, with preference given to those pursuing or completed a degree in horticulture, or a related field.
Send cover letter and resume to Kevin Wiecks, Director and Jessica O’Callahan, Horticulture Coordinator via email to kevin.wiecks@parks.ny.gov and jessica.ocallahan@parks.ny.gov.
DOWNLOAD THE 2024 CSA HORTICULTURAL INTERNSHIP GUIDELINES HERE
Community Supported Agriculture Farm Internship
Number Available: 1
Application Deadline: March 1, 2024
Position: Full-Time, Paid
Duration: Summer, May 28 – August 23, 2024
