Description
Interns are assigned to a particular area within the arboretum. Participation in regularly scheduled educational programs and field trips is limited based on their part-time status. Interns will work on independent projects that benefit the arboretum, and are supervised by the arboretum's professional staff. Compensation for the 2008 part-time internship is approx. $11.43/hr. The position requires two days a week or 16 hours, usually 7:00am – 3:30 p.m. Scheduled work days are flexible. College credit may be arranged by the student 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 or laboratory skills, interest in plants, and the ability to work independently are very important.

Duties & Working Conditions
Interns will be responsible for the standard duties of working in a public garden. Examples include assisting in all aspects of garden maintenance and development, including greenhouse work, potted plant maintenance, propagation, planting, watering, weeding, mowing, and pest management. Interns will also assist with the accurate labeling of plants and answering visitor’s questions. Outdoor internships involve heavy lifting and exposure to extreme heat and humidity.

Friendship Garden: Garden in an innovative landscape that includes woody plants, perennials, ornamental grasses, and bulbs designed for year-round interest. In this internship, you will assist with the maintenance of the garden, which simulates a residential setting. Actual schedule to be decided between the intern and supervisor.

To apply:

To apply for the Part-time internship, please send a cover letter, resume, transcripts,
and a completed Supplemental Questionnaire to:

     Internship Office
     US National Arboretum
     3501 New York Avenue, NE
     Washington, DC 20002