Intern - Landscape Design

Purpose and Development Opportunities 

As a Landscape Design Intern, you will play a key role in conceptualizing and developing landscape and garden designs across several unique areas, including but not limited to the Larval Garden, Backyard Garden, Nature Play area and the Orchard Garden. This internship provides an opportunity to explore landscape design principles, plant selection, and site planning while gaining hands-on experience working in a Public Gardens setting while creating inspirational and functional garden ideas.

Interns will work with the Horticulture Department to gather organizational needs, design inspiration, develop site-specific plans, and explore plant combinations that enhance ecological function and aesthetic appeal. Depending on your interests, you may focus on native plantings, pollinator-friendly designs, edible landscapes, or artistic/historic garden styles ,depending on organizational needs and thematic approach to individual spaces.

Each intern will complete an independent project that aligns with both their learning goals and the site’s needs. This project could include developing a planting plan for a specific area, creating interpretive design materials, implementing a small-scale landscape project, or researching and recommending innovative planting techniques.

Interns will have access to horticultural resources, landscape equipment, and mentorship to bring their project to life.

Reporting Department: Horticulture Department

Reporting Supervisor and Training Provided By: Director of Horticulture, Horticulture Specialist

Length of Appointment: 200 hour minimum

Time Commitment:
20-40 hours per week preferred. (Monday – Friday 7am-3:40pm) and every other Saturday 9am-12pm during Farmers Market.

A project and time commitment-based stipend of up to $1,000, dependent on the quality and scope of the completed internship hours and project.

Essential duties and responsibilities:

· Conduct site analysis to assess soil conditions, sunlight, drainage, and existing plant communities.

· Develop a concept plan and planting designs for an assigned garden area.

· Research and propose plant palettes that align with the intended function and aesthetics of each space.

· Assist in the maintenance and care of landscapes where conceptual designs are being developed.

· Explore sustainable landscaping techniques, such as water-wise gardening, soil-building strategies, and native plant integration.

· Work on interpretive and educational materials, such as garden signage, visitor guides, or online resources.

· Present a final design proposal and findings at the conclusion of the internship.

· Other duties may be assigned based on project scope and intern interests.

Other possible duties and responsibilities may be necessary to research, produce, and present your project at the completion of the internship.

Thematic Garden Explorations – Designing gardens based on cultural, artistic, or historical influences.

Site-Specific Adaptations – Developing designs suited to individual garden spaces and visitor needs.

Garden Management Considerations – Understanding best practices and limitations for maintaining designed landscapes.

Urban Demonstration Growing – Showcasing small-space gardening and food production techniques.

Edible & Sustainable Gardening – Integrating fruits, vegetables, and herbs into functional garden designs.

Nature Play Concepts – Designing interactive garden spaces that encourage children's engagement with nature.

Sensory & Interactive Garden Design – Creating spaces that stimulate the senses through texture, scent, sound, and movement.

Native Plants, Habitat Creation, & Ecological Relationships – Designing spaces that support bees, butterflies, birds, and other wildlife by using native species to enhance biodiversity and exploring plant-animal interactions for a thriving ecosystem.

Seasonal & Aesthetic Design – Planning for year-round color, texture, and visual interest.

Water-Wise & Rain Garden Design – Implementing rain gardens and other strategies for water conservation.

Record Keeping & Documentation – Tracking plant growth, seasonal changes, and visitor engagement for future planning.

Qualifications:

The requirements of the internship include the ability to work outside in varying weather conditions, and to work independently. An interest in horticulture and gardening is a must. Strong preference for candidates with experience in agriculture, food production, and community outreach preferred. Must be reliable and work well with both staff and volunteers.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this internship. 

Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.