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Internship Areas
Each intern specializes in one of the following internship areas.
Internship opportunities are 3 or 12 months with some areas of specialization only being offered for 12 months.
Completed applications must be received by February 1 for a May and June start date.
Applications are now open.
For more information on specific internships, please contact:
Office of Domestic & International Studies
Email: edu-studies@longwoodgardens.org
Phone: 610.388.5239
Arboriculture
Conservatory Display
Display Design
Education
Greenhouse Production
Guest Engagement Operations
Horticulture Research
Integrated Pest Management
Library & Information Services
Marketing & Communications
Natural Land Stewardship
Nursery Production
Outdoor Landscapes
Performing Arts
Plant Records
Seed Your Future Communications
Rotational Summer Internship
Arboriculture
The Arboriculture Intern will “learn the ropes” in an unparalleled garden setting with a strong history of tree preservation and more than 90 Champion Trees!
This internship focuses on teaching skills necessary to excel in the modern work environment by providing hands-on learning opportunities. Students will explore tree biology and health, pruning, rigging, climbing techniques, tree support systems and workplace safety. Every student will start out as a ground person but skill and knowledge development is limited only by the motivation of the individual. Interns will gain experience with equipment such as chainsaws, chippers, stump grinders and aerial lifts while working with a progressive team of Arborists using the latest climbing techniques. Three month internships are available, however, a 12 month internship will prepare a motivated student for the Arborist Certification Exam given by the International Society of Arboriculture (other criteria must be satisfied to take the exam). During a 12 month internship, students will gain exposure to all material covered by the Certification Exam as they work with our Arborists, Nursery, IPM and Soils and Compost staff. Fall interns will also participate in setting up Longwood Gardens’ renowned Christmas Light display. Good communication skills are extremely important and experience in Arboriculture, Urban Forestry or a related field is preferred. Applicants should be in good physical condition and capable of sustained physical labor in all weather conditions.
This is a 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start date.
Conservatory Display
The Conservatory Display Intern will learn the special nature of gardening in conservatories through hands-on involvement in the day-to-day process of installing and maintaining greenhouse displays and collections.
Students work on seasonally changing displays which include annuals, perennials, tropical plants, and bulbs. Students may work with palms, aquatics, orchids, bananas, roses, ferns, succulents, bonsai, espaliered fruit, and Mediterranean flora. Duties include grooming, planting, and maintaining plant displays. Opportunities range from 3-12 months. A general knowledge of greenhouse environments and plant culture is preferred. Willingness to work independently, willingness to work in adverse weather conditions, willingness to work some weekends, ability to lift 30 lbs, and a valid driver’s license are required.
This is a 3- or 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start date.
Display Design
This world-class opportunity provides an overarching understanding of displays in public gardens through hands-on experience, problem solving, and close interaction with the Display Designer.
The intern will support the design team with CAD drawings, construction documents, visual aids, photography, research and development of new displays, and cross-departmental collaboration. Each day will be new and different, and the intern will have the opportunity to work on a variety of exciting projects throughout this yearlong internship. Experience with computer design programs is necessary. Interns with high degrees of motivation, organization, attention to detail, and willingness to work independently will perform well. This position is ideal for recent graduates in landscape architecture, landscape design, or architecture who have a strong interest in horticulture and wish to build their portfolio in an internationally renowned garden. A resume and portfolio of work samples must accompany the application.
This is a 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start.
Education
The Education Intern will collaborate with Longwood Gardens’ various educational divisions to create dynamic and innovative educational programming for learners of all ages, especially School & Youth.
In this unique opportunity, the intern will gain a complete perspective of public gardens education by being immersed in Longwood’s educational programming. The intern will assist with onsite and online curricular programming including school trips, summer camps, Scout days, student volunteers, interactive video conferencing programs, and teacher professional development. Tasks vary from day-to-day and are, generally, project based. Occasionally, the intern will assist other educational divisions, such International & Domestic Studies (college-level) and Continuing Education, with various projects. Interns with background knowledge of curriculum standards will find the experience to be beneficial. The successful candidate is a self-motivated, computer-literate, detail-oriented, and organized individual looking for a vibrant experience in a collaborative educational environment.
This is a 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start date.
Greenhouse Production
The Greenhouse Production Intern learns the systems and horticultural skills needed to manage a state-of-the-art container production greenhouse through hands-on involvement in the daily operations of a production facility.
The Greenhouse Production Intern learns the systems and horticultural skills needed to manage a state-of-the-art container production greenhouse through hands-on involvement in the daily operations of a production facility. Interns will propagate plants by seed and vegetative means and will learn to mix various types of growing media. The Greenhouse Production Intern works collaboratively with the production team to ensure the highest quality crops are grown efficiently and consistently. Responsibilities include assisting in the upkeep and cleanliness of the greenhouse and other work areas, and performing primary plant care in the absence of full-time staff. Other tasks include transplanting, potting, repotting, staking, tying, grooming, watering and fertilizing with automated systems, transporting potted plants to and from growing areas, and assisting with installations of large displays and garden-wide projects. This experience is perfect for someone who intends to grow plants for a display garden or for commercial purposes. Opportunities range from 3-12 months. Willingness to work independently, willingness to work some weekends, and the ability to lift 50 lbs are required.
This is a 3- or 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start date.
Guest Engagement Operations
This internship offers an opportunity to participate in the operations and delivery of our guest experience through programs, information, and guest feedback in alignment with our Guest Services Department and Guest Engagement Division.
Responsibilities include guest feedback review, daily operational and public event support, and in-Garden support of our guests and Guest Engagement staff and volunteers. Additional responsibilities include assisting in presentations, development of informational materials, and learning the tenets of creating positive guest engagement experiences.
Successful candidates must be self-motivated and possess great leadership, organization, communication, and interpersonal skills. A background in customer service / guest relations and strong writing skills is preferred. An interest in horticulture and public gardens is a plus. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and its associated programs, with operational knowledge of Microsoft Excel, is required. Applicants must submit a resume and examples of customer service / guest engagement experiences for review.
This is a 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start date.
Horticulture Research
The Research Intern learns the daily tasks involved in operating a horticultural research facility through hands-on involvement with the research team and working with extraordinary hardy and non-hardy plants.
Research at Longwood focuses upon applied, practical studies to enhance the indoor and outdoor horticultural displays. The individual works in research plots at the Nursery and in the Research Greenhouses performing weeding, watering, mulching, soil preparation, fertilizing, pruning, planting and transplanting, labeling, and data collection. The intern will collect data on seed germination, bloom period, and hybridization results on a variety of plant trials including camellia hardiness, boxwoods, and on-going evaluations of new plants. Additional tasks include soil testing, virus testing, and propagation by seed, cuttings, grafting/budding, and plant tissue culture. Attention to detail is important. This internship is ideal for students eager to learn a wide range of plants. Opportunities range from 3-12 months (6-12 months is preferred). Willingness to work independently, willingness to work in adverse weather conditions, willingness to work some weekends, the ability to lift 50 lbs, and a valid driver’s license are required. Acquisition of a pesticide applicator's license may be required.
This is a 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start.
Integrated Pest Management
The Integrated Pest Management Intern gains plant health diagnostic skills such as proper pest scouting and identification techniques and the recognition of common plant disease/pest infestation symptoms on plants.
The intern assists the IPM staff in scouting for and diagnosing pest problems on a wide variety of crops grown in the greenhouse, conservatory, landscape, and natural environments. The intern performs applied research projects that investigate the biology and control of pests, designs and implements pest sampling and monitoring programs, releases beneficial insects in the conservatory, and evaluates the effectiveness of cultural practices, beneficial organisms, and chemical controls. The intern must obtain a pesticide applicator’s license and will likely apply chemical pest control materials with an emphasis on safety, focusing on the least toxic yet effective methods of control. Additional responsibilities include developing lectures and displays and performing outreach educational programs concerning IPM. Opportunities range from 3-12 months (6-12 months is preferred). The ability to lift 50 lbs, willingness to work in adverse weather conditions, ability to work independently, and a valid driver's license are required.
This is a 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start.
Library & Information Services
MLS (or equivalent) student or recent graduate to gain experience in the operations and management of a special library and institutional archives.
The intern is immersed in each section of the unit—Library, Digital Gallery, and Archives. He/she works on a variety of assigned projects as part of a team to achieve the unit’s goals in supporting Longwood Gardens’ mission. Currently, unit goals are focused on developing robust intellectual control and access across all collections.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Arrange and describe archival collections, develop finding aids, and make recommendations regarding storage, conservation and preservation treatment of archival materials in various formats, including born-digital records.
- Perform basic administrative level tasks in Digital Asset Management System (Asset Bank), including scanning, uploading, editing, training patrons, and supervising volunteer projects.
- Assist with cataloging of library materials and the strategic initiative to improve Authorities control in the EOS ILS.
- Assist in cataloging materials including object collections and digital assets.
- Assist in Records Management functions, including accessioning new records and ensuring timely destruction of expired materials.
- Perform basic reference interviews and services as well as circulation maintenance routines, such as check-in/check-out, shelve books and compile usage statistics.
- Perform routine environmental and pest monitoring in collection storage spaces.
- Assist with Interlibrary Loan tasks as needed.
- Perform various daily administrative and technical tasks.
- Participate in Longwood student/intern activities and all required student/intern work projects.
Qualifications
- Be pursuing or have recently completed a Master of Science in Library Science (MLS) or related equivalent.
- Demonstrate a strong professional interest in cataloging and intellectual control of collections.
- Strong Excel and data manipulation skills.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Be able to work on multiple projects in a busy, fast-paced environment.
- Be able and willing to work independently.
- Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including ability to interact in a courteous, patient, and professional manner.
- Must be able to lift 40 lbs.
- Be willing to follow all of Longwood Gardens' policies and procedures.
- Have a valid driver's license.
This is a full-time, 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start.
Marketing & Communications
The Marketing and Communications Intern assists with the daily management and monitoring of Longwood Gardens’ social media platforms.
In this role, the intern engages with our fans online, answering questions, replying to comments, and liking, replying to, and sharing user generated content. This role requires the intern to work with staff throughout the Gardens to ensure an appropriate response to guest inquiries. The intern is also tasked with identifying high quality fans and influencers, as well as hashtags, trends, and social conversations in which Longwood should take part. The intern is responsible for scheduling posts on all platforms and performing general platform maintenance, and for serving as a backup and assistant to the Social Media Content Editor. In addition, the intern assists with website updates, email communications, and other marketing and communications projects.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist with the daily management and monitoring of Longwood Gardens’ social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Responsibilities will include scheduling and making posts, monitoring, and responding to inquiries.
- Supporting content development and deploying new tactics for social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Responsibilities include writing posts, sourcing photography, taking photographs when needed, developing video content, and developing new tactics and campaigns as part of the Communications Team.
- Post content to Longwood Gardens’ website using the Drupal CMS.
- Develop the monthly Member email newsletter. Responsibilities include identifying and writing stories, sourcing photography, and creating the emails in our email system, Emma.
- Develop content for seasonal brochures or other publications, including writing, photography, and/or video.
- Assist with other special projects to support the marketing, communications, and creative services teams.
- Write blog posts on select topics. Responsibilities may include researching the topic, interviewing staff members, and possibly taking photographs or developing video content.
Qualifications
- Enrolled or completed a bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, or a related field.
- Self-motivated, highly organized, and creative team player.
- Superior verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills. The ability to come across as warm and sincere online and to embody Longwood’s brand in digital communications.
- Strong social media presence or skills.
- Keen eye for selecting photography and taking photographs.
- Knowledge of Photoshop a plus.
- Video storyboarding, filming and editing a plus.
- Willingness to work independently and some weekend work are required.
This is a 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start.
Natural Land Stewardship
The Natural Land Stewardship Intern gains a variety of skills such as native plant community establishment, restoration and management; invasive species identification and management; GPS mapping; and wildlife management techniques.
The intern assists Longwood’s Land Stewardship and Ecology staff in the management of 700+ acres of woodlands, meadows, wetlands, streams, ponds, and agricultural lands in a southeastern Pennsylvania Piedmont landscape, including the 86-acre Meadow Garden. The intern will assist in the development and implementation of research to improve the effectiveness of ecological restoration and develop innovative land stewardship techniques. All members of the team perform daily stewardship activities such as planting, field mowing, and invasive species management. Responsibilities may include collecting field and greenhouse data, reviewing and reporting on current information, developing protocols, creating and revising plans and GIS maps, engaging with volunteers, and participating in educational programs related to land stewardship. The intern must have or obtain a PA pesticide applicator’s license and will likely apply chemical herbicides, with an emphasis on safety and focusing on the least toxic yet effective methods of control. The ability to lift 50 lbs., willingness to work in adverse weather conditions, the ability to work both independently and with a team, and a valid driver's license are required. Applicants must have or be actively working toward a bachelor’s degree in ecology, botany, wildlife biology, environmental science, or a related discipline, along with a passion for land stewardship and conservation.
This is a 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start.
Nursery Production
The Nursery Production Intern learns propagation, potting, labeling, record-keeping, pruning, and transplanting techniques through involvement with the day-to-day operation of Longwood’s nursery.
The intern prunes, maintains, and evaluates woody and herbaceous plant material and conducts general maintenance including weeding and mulching. Additionally, the student prepares trees and shrubs for transport and installation in the display gardens by hand digging, ball-and-burlapping, or using a tree spade. The intern will also assist with labeling plants and record-keeping. Opportunities range from 3-12 months. The ability to lift 50 lbs, willingness to work in adverse weather conditions, willingness to work independently, and a valid driver’s license are required.
This is a 3- or 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start date.
Outdoor Landscapes
The Outdoor Landscapes Intern maintains herbaceous and woody plants in several sections of the Gardens.
Duties include planting, weeding, mulching, watering, pruning, staking, and fertilizing. Students may work with woody plants, herbs, bulbs, ground covers, roses, vegetables, and fruits in some of Longwood’s most intensively cultivated areas. In addition, students may prepare trees and shrubs for transporting from the nursery to the display area by hand digging, ball-and-burlapping, or using a mechanical tree spade. Opportunities range from 3-12 months. The ability to lift 50 lbs, willingness to work in adverse weather conditions, willingness to work independently, and a valid driver’s license are required.
This is a 3- or 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start date.
Performing Arts
The Performing Arts Intern gains exposure to the planning and execution of Performing Arts events at the Gardens.
The Intern will learn how a performing arts office operates through hands-on involvement in the daily operation of the office. Specifically, the intern will focus on publicity and marketing efforts, website promotion and artist services. The intern is responsible for maintaining Performing Arts sections of the Longwood website, and for managing all Performing Arts images in the Digital Gallery. Additional duties include tracking and logging ticket sales, creating concert programs, general artist services, and assisting in the development of the annual Longwood Gardens Performing Arts season brochure. Applicants must be able to multi-task and work independently in a busy office environment. Strong computer skills required and a strong knowledge of the performing arts is expected. Organ knowledge is a plus. Willingness to work evenings and weekends and a valid driver's license are additional requirements for this internship.
This is a 12-month internship. Apply by May 1 for a late August start.
Plant Records
The Plant Records Intern works closely with the Plant Records Manager to learn the methods and techniques applied in maintaining plant records at a public garden.
Specific experiences include: accessioning, verifying plant nomenclature, inventorying, and producing plant records reports, utilizing the database BG-BASE; labeling, both producing educational labels for visitors and accession labels for staff; and mapping with a GPS and maintaining digital maps, utilizing the database BG-Map. The intern will develop a thorough understanding of the principles of plant nomenclature and gain familiarity with a wide variety of publications and other information resources, including archival files. A variety of computer skills and familiarity with plant identification, willingness to work independently and in adverse weather conditions, and a valid driver’s license are required.
This is a 12-month internship. Apply by February 1 for a spring start.
Seed Your Future Communications
The Seed Your Future Communications Intern will support key functions to advance the strategic plan for the movement—including creating awareness around careers in horticulture, driving engagement through the website and social media, and building the capacity of the movement.
Key to the position is supporting the value proposition to intrigue the target audience with the aspirational basis for why they should care about horticulture and careers working with plants; and why they should want to learn more. This position will be integral to amplifying the horticulture message within our target audiences (tweens, their teachers and their parents), with the goal to show new and unexpected possibilities of horticulture in an eye-catching, relatable and achievable way.
This is a 12-month internship.
To learn more, please visit Seed Your Future.
Rotational Summer Internship
Rotational Summer Internship in Public Horticulture offers students the opportunity to experience outdoor display, conservatory management and greenhouse production.
Open only to current sophomores and juniors enrolled in a two- or four-year college or university program in horticulture or a related field, the Rotational Summer Internship in Public Horticulture introduces students to the diversity of career opportunities available in public horticulture through an internship emphasizing Display Horticulture. This internship will engage students in the day-to-day operations of an intensively managed horticultural display through monthly rotations in Conservatory Management, Outdoor Display, and Greenhouse Production. Other program features and student responsibilities include: 10- or 12-week program, dependent upon individual student availability Opportunity to enroll in Continuing Education courses Weekly learning activities, including field trips, hands-on workshops, and lectures The internship is ideal for those students interested in maintenance, design, and visitor interaction within a public display garden.
This is a 3-month internship only. Apply by February 1 for a spring start.
