What are the responsibilities and job description for the Discovery Education Internship position at Phipps Conservatory?
Discovery Education Internship 2025
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden’s mission is to inspire and educate all with the beauty and importance of plants; to advance sustainability and promote human and environmental well-being through action and research; and to celebrate its historic glasshouse.
Phipps Conservatory is offering a summer Discovery Education Internship to students interested in gaining practical experience in all aspects of a botanical garden education program focusing on informal, participatory learning experiences. The intern will work alongside the Discovery Education staff and volunteers, assisting in developing and presenting Discovery lessons and activities, preparing supplies for activities in the Discovery Garden and rooftop Edible Garden, and engage guests in conversation about Phipps’ living collection.
With a focus on interacting with families while encouraging children to participate in nature-related activities; the intern will gain experience in leading and evaluating guest interactions and programs and will assist in literacy and outreach opportunities.
The summer Discovery Education Internship runs from May through August, based on the student’s university schedule. The Discovery Education Intern will work 40 hours/week for a maximum of 16 weeks; this is a paid internship. Some weekend and evening availability required for this position. This internship will take place in both indoor and outdoor settings, with exposure to all the natural elements.
Applicants must be currently enrolled as an undergraduate student at least halfway through course of study, or one-year, post-graduate from undergraduate program, or currently enrolled as a graduate student majoring in environmental education, museum education, environmental social sciences, conservation-based biological sciences, or related field. Previous experience working with children is preferred, and applicants must be willing to engage with children of different ages and transmit different levels of knowledge as appropriate.
For more information about Phipps, please visit our website: www.phipps.conservatory.org.
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff. We strive to create a working environment that is inclusive, equitable and welcoming as we honor employee experiences, perspectives, and unique identities.
