Horticulture Intern

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park•Grand Rapids, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Horticulture Internship offers hands-on learning opportunities for students or emerging professionals interested in public gardens, landscape management, or botanical sciences. Interns will work alongside experienced horticulture staff to support daily garden operations, build fundamental horticulture skills, and gain exposure to a wide range of plant care and landscape maintenance practices. This role is ideal for individuals seeking real-world experience in a dynamic outdoor environment while contributing to the beauty and care of our gardens

Requirements

Current enrollment in or recent completion of a degree, trade, or certificate program in Art, Art History, or a related field at an accredited institution.
Available for a minimum of 10 weeks of in-person intern programming in Grand Rapids, MI
Ability to commit to scheduled work hours and program requirements.
Strong interest in learning and professional development.
Valid Driver’s License without work restrictions
Ability to follow instructions, work safely, and collaborate with staff and volunteers.

Nice To Haves

Basic horticulture knowledge is preferred but not required.
Successful candidates should demonstrate curiosity, willingness to learn, and an interest in plants or environmental work.
Demonstrated interest in horticulture, plant science, environmental studies, landscape maintenance, or related fields.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with horticulture staff to learn and assist with daily garden and greenhouse tasks.
Participate in supervised plant care activities such as soil preparation, planting, pruning, mulching, weeding, watering, fertilizing, and basic irrigation support.
Support turf care and lawn maintenance within specialty garden areas as part of a small team.
Receive training and hands-on experience operating lawn mowers, weed whips, backpack blowers, and other small landscape equipment.
Assist with snow removal when needed, using tools such as walk-behind snow throwers and shovels to help maintain safe walkways.
Contribute to the setup and removal of seasonal exhibits and plant displays.
Maintain cleanliness and organization of tool storage areas, carts, and shared equipment.
Assist staff with volunteer activities by providing basic direction and support under supervision.
Learn to safely perform tasks requiring work at height, including ladder use.
Support compost removal and proper placement of materials for recycling.
Engage positively with guests and volunteers, offering assistance and information as appropriate.
Perform daily duties with growing independence as skills develop.
Complete additional tasks as assigned within the horticulture department or across the organization that align with educational and internship goals.