Botanical Garden Assistant Internship Seasonal

Overview:

Highlands Biological Station (HBS) is a scientific research station focused on the research and education of the natural heritage of the Highlands Plateau while preserving the biological richness of the southern Appalachian Mountains. HBS is a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University and is comprised of the Highlands Nature Center, Highlands Botanical Garden, William Chambers Coker Laboratory, and the Richard C. Bruce Biodiversity Laboratory. HBS also holds several on-site housing options for visiting researchers, students, and interns.

The Botanical Garden Assistant(s) will report to the Highlands Biological Station lead Horticulturist and will be an integral member of the HBS staff. The selected applicants will assist in identification, record-keeping, and maintenance of more than 450 native plant species. In addition, they will help to maintain the grounds and gardens, trails, boardwalks, and bridges throughout the 24-acre campus. This position will include working with the Garden Committees, volunteer groups, and the public to interpret the natural history of the local ecology and identify plant species within the garden. This is an exceptional learning opportunity aimed at gaining valuable career experience caring for gardens and natural areas, planning and executing projects, and working with volunteers.

Botanical Garden Assistants have the option of staying in on-site shared housing for the duration of the summer, free of charge.

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate should possess strong ornamental plant identification skills and a specific interest in native plants. Priority will be given to students pursuing a degree in biology, botany, horticulture, environmental science, or a related subject. Familiarity with southern Appalachian plant species and/or prior public horticulture experience is desirable. Recent graduates are also welcome to apply.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens and possess a valid driver’s license.  They must also successfully pass a background check.

Responsibilities:

• The successful applicants will assist in all aspects of botanic garden operations including the use of proper horticultural practices such as planting, pruning, raking, weed management, trail maintenance, curation and plant record keeping.
• Additional use of power tools will be expected. They will gain hands-on experience identifying and cultivating native plants in a natural and cultivated setting.
• Must be able to walk, stand, or bend on uneven terrain; must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds and push up to 50 pounds.
• Must be comfortable working from a ladder, lift and other high places.
• Must be prepared to work outdoors under all conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and with occasional exposure to poison ivy, biting and stinging insects.

Botanical Garden Assistants will be expected to work with volunteers, Garden Committee members, and help with occasional weekend events.

Highlands Biological Station is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All consideration for employment is decided upon without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.

COVID-19:   To protect both our staff and our visitors, the Highlands Biological Station has developed rigorous COVID-19 safety protocols.  Staff must be willing and able to follow this protocol. Please note, any offers of employment and specific duties will be contingent on state and university COVID-19 restrictions.

Application Instructions:
Please email or mail a resume, cover letter, and a list of three references to:
Rachel Martin, Horticulturist  rmartin@wcu.edu  with the subject ‘Botanical Garden Assistant’

Highlands Biological Station
P.O. Box 580
265 North 6th Street
Highlands, NC 28741

Applications must be received or post-marked but March 15th, 2021.

For any further questions or assistance, please contact Rachel Martin at rmartin@wcu.edu, or call 828-526-0188.