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Internship Botanic Gardens Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WCH Apprentice

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.36/hr

A minimum of internship program hours worked are required for certification through City Colleges of Chicago & Chicago Botanic Garden. Paid Work Experiences are generally 30 or 37.5 hours per week ...

Plant Propagator

Glencoe, IL · On-site

$26 - $30.55/hr

Growers, Assistant Growers, Seasonal Staff, Interns, and Volunteers Year-Round, Full-time Year-Round Full-time employees of the Chicago Botanic Garden are eligible for the following Benefits: * 2026 ...

Internship Botanic Gardens information

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$8

$15

$21

How much do internship botanic gardens jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship botanic gardens in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Internship Botanic Gardens positions?

Internship positions at botanic gardens are temporary roles designed for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in plant science, horticulture, conservation, or public education. Interns work alongside professional staff, assisting with tasks such as plant care, research, education programs, and garden maintenance. These internships offer valuable exposure to the daily operations of a botanic garden and can provide important networking and career development opportunities. Most internships are structured for a set period, such as a summer or academic semester, and may be paid or unpaid depending on the institution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an intern at a Botanic Garden, and why are they important?

To thrive as an intern at a Botanic Garden, you generally need a background or coursework in botany, horticulture, or environmental science, along with a keen interest in plant care and conservation. Familiarity with plant identification guides, basic gardening tools, and possibly data collection software or GIS systems is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and attention to detail are valuable soft skills for collaborating with staff and engaging with visitors. These skills and qualities are important to support the garden's educational, research, and conservation missions while ensuring safe and effective work in a diverse environment.

What types of projects or tasks can I expect to work on during an internship at a botanic garden?

As an intern at a botanic garden, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on projects such as assisting with plant propagation, maintaining garden beds, and supporting educational programs for visitors. Interns often work closely with horticulturists and educators, gaining experience in plant care, data collection for research, and public engagement activities. This role typically offers exposure to both outdoor work and behind-the-scenes operations, providing a well-rounded introduction to careers in horticulture and plant conservation.
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What cities are hiring for Internship Botanic Gardens jobs? Cities with the most Internship Botanic Gardens job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Internship Botanic Gardens jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Internship Botanic Gardens jobs are:
Infographic showing various Internship Botanic Gardens job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Internship, 6% As Needed, 2% Full Time, 73% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.
Summer Camp Naturalist (Multiple Opportunities)

Summer Camp Naturalist (Multiple Opportunities)

University of Washington

Seattle, WA • On-site, Remote

$26.31/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


University Of Washington School Of Medicine rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

181st of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description
University of Washington Botanic Gardens has an opportunity for multiple part-time, nonpermanent, hourly Summer Camp Naturalists.
Location: University of Washington Botanic Gardens, Washington Park Arboretum-Seattle, WA
University of Washington Botanic Gardens (UWBG) Education Program Mission: Provide meaningful educational experiences that enrich participants' connections with plants and the natural world.
Program Overview: The University of Washington Botanic Gardens (UWBG) is a leading center of botanical research, education, and outreach. With more than 320 acres of gardens and natural areas in the heart of Seattle, the UW Botanic Gardens is home to internationally significant plant collections, award-winning restoration ecology and conservation programs, and popular public programs serving youth, adults, and professionals. UWBG has two sites: the Washington Park Arboretum and the Center for Urban Horticulture.
Camp Overview: Our day camp curricula are designed to promote an appreciation of plants and the environment through fun, educational, outdoor learning experiences. We focus on hands-on exploration, play, and the concept of "learning by doing". UWBG offers day camp programs for 1st - 8th grade campers and volunteer and leadership training to high school students through the Junior Naturalist program.
Job Description: Lead and teach thematic environmental education programs for 1st - 8th grade campers in the Washington Park Arboretum, Center for Urban Horticulture, and/or Union Bay Natural Area. Our curricula integrate science, social-emotional learning, team building, art, and play. Serve as a mentor to high school volunteers and interns. Summer Naturalists will supervise, support, and lead activities in individual and team-teaching roles during the regular camp day and supervise and provide activities during after care. Shifts will vary each week with the earliest starting at 7:30am and the latest ending at 5:15pm with all staff working 8 hours per business day when camp is in session.
Dates: Training is held in mid-June with camp programs running from late June through late August.
General Duties: Plan, prepare, and teach age- and theme- appropriate lessons, activities, and games. Utilize the Washington Park Arboretum, Center for Urban Horticulture, and Union Bay Natural Area to create fun and dynamic educational and recreational experiences for campers.
Essential Tasks:
  • Prepare and facilitate thematic, culturally responsive, and age-appropriate experiences for groups of 1st - 8th grade campers using prepared curriculum and other UW Botanic Gardens Youth and Family educational resources
  • Lead programs in an outdoor setting in all kinds of weather
  • Ensure safety and well-being of program participants, including adhering to required health and safety precautions
  • Foster a fun and educational atmosphere
  • Support and guide youth in their interpersonal and social-emotional development
  • Prepare, clean, and put away materials for programs.
  • Collaborate with fellow Summer Camp Naturalists and participate in all daily activities and management of youth campers, including collaboration with and mentoring of a high school youth of all backgrounds and varying abilities
  • Collaborate with lead, administrative, and support staff
  • Communicate effectively with families, campers, and Arboretum staff team

Minimum Requirements:
  • High school graduation or equivalent and two years of instructional experience, or equivalent education/experience.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Passion for equity and inclusion in environmental education.
  • At least 1 year of experience (personal or professional) teaching diverse youth audiences in an outdoor environment OR equivalent education.
  • Willingness to work with students from 1st grade through high school in various capacities.
  • Have excellent organizational skills, the ability to work as a team member, and strong interpersonal skills.

Conditions of Employment:
  • Ability to stand, stoop, bend, and sit, for 15-20 minutes at a time.
  • Be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds for short distances.
  • Be punctual, responsible, and able to work outdoors in all types of weather.
  • CPR and First Aid certification or willingness to obtain prior to the start of camp

Appointment to this position is contingent upon obtaining satisfactory results from a criminal background check and a Sexual Misconduct Disclosure check.
Compensation, Benefits and Position Details
Pay Range Minimum:
$21.77 hourly
Pay Range Maximum:
$26.31 hourly
Other Compensation:
Benefits:
For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-temporary-per-diem-and-less-than-half-time/
Shift:
Temporary or Regular?
This is a temporary position
FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):
100.00%
Union/Bargaining Unit:
SEIU Local 925 Nonsupervisory
About the UW
Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives - on our campuses, in our state and around the world.
UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.
Our Commitment
The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.
To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu.
Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.

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