Horticulture Jobs in Chicago, IL

Last updated: 30+ days ago

Internship - Horticulture - Fall 2024

Shedd AquariumChicago , IL

Fall 2024 (Approx Sept / Oct-Nov / Dec).At Shedd Aquarium, our commitment to conservation and sustainability is extended outside the walls into our biodiverse organic gardens that have been developed a...Show moreLast updated: 30+ days ago

Internship - Horticulture - Fall 2024

Shedd AquariumChicago , IL

30+ days ago

Job description

Internship : Horticulture

Season : Fall 2024 (Approx Sept / Oct-Nov / Dec)

Location : Onsite

Application Deadline : August 8 at 4pm CST

Department Overview :

At Shedd Aquarium, our commitment to conservation and sustainability is extended outside the walls into our biodiverse organic gardens that have been developed as both aesthetic and educational experiences for our visitors. Interns will have the opportunity to learn about caring for naturalistic landscapes, edible landscaping, practical use of native plants in ornamental horticulture, invasive species control, our relationship with pollinators, building and conserving healthy soil, conservation, IPM, and food propagation. Interns will work independently and with our team to learn the skills needed to care for these landscapes.

The completion of an independent study project is an important aspect of this internship. Ample time will be allowed for completion of this project.

Learning Objectives :

Strengthen understanding of the sustainable gardening techniques practiced at Shedd and their wider application
Strengthen understanding of how to create biodiverse managed landscapes
Practice the basics of organic fruit and vegetable propagation
Develop an understanding of the potential of public gardens to support urban ecosystems, and advance conservation work

Responsibilities & Projects :

Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values

Partner with the Coordinator of Horticulture to learn about garden maintenance and sustainable methods.

Work alongside the Coordinator of Horticulture and Manager of Horticulture Programs to learn about the skills necessary for growing healthy gardens.

Complete an independent project and share with the Shedd community though a presentation (ex. a tour, a Tidings submission or a Lunch and Learn).

Assist as directed with : Weeding, watering, and deadheading. Native plant propagation including seed collection Harvesting food crops in our display gardens Preparing new planting areas Natural and native landscape maintenance

Other projects as assigned

Qualifications :

Fields of Interest : Horticulture, Urban Ecology, Urban Agriculture, Regenerative Horticulture, Public Gardens or related. Formal horticulture training is not required, but a demonstrated interest in horticulture is.

Skills / Characteristics :

Ability to walk, stand, and stoop for extended periods of time and lift up to 50 pounds.

Willingness to follow instructions and work as a member of a team or independently

Effective communication skills

Friendly demeanor

Ability to maintain confidentiality

Willingness to work outdoors in variable weather conditions

Have a high school diploma or GED.

Time & Compensation :

This is a non-exempt, temporary position that pays $ per hour

We anticipate this position will be scheduled for 24 hours per week for 10-12 weeks, pending business needs and individual performance.

Preferred schedule : Tues / Thurs / Fri or Wed / Thurs / Fri. Mondays and weekends are not offered.

Set schedule based on intern availability.

We welcome applications from all levels of experience, including those seeking career exploration or changes, gap year students, freshmen, sophomores, and those seeking first internships.

We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, Veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team.

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