Horticulture Intern

Monday - Friday, 8:30AM - 5:00PM with 1 hour unpaid lunch break.
Average of 35-40 hours per week.

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

The North Carolina Botanical Garden ( NCBG) has been a leader in native plant conservation, horticulture, and education in the southeastern United States for more than 50 years. As part of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, we further the University's tripartite teaching, research, and public service mission through our own mission to cultivate connections between plants, people, and place through science, engagement, and conservation. As a garden focused on conserving the biodiversity of southeastern native plants, we recognize that just as biodiversity is critical to a healthy ecosystem, diversity in people and perspectives makes our organization and community stronger. NCBG is committed to creating an environment in our gardens and natural areas where everyone's voice is heard, and everyone feels safe and welcome.

The primary focus of these internships is on garden maintenance and regular activities include weeding, watering, mowing, and path raking as well as care for plants in our greenhouse and nursery. Occasional activities include seed collection and processing, plant propagation and invasive exotics removal. These internships are a great opportunity to become familiar with the flora of the southeastern U.S. and learn sustainable gardening methods. Summer interns work in our habitat displays focusing on southeastern native plants and a variety of ornamental and teaching gardens including carnivorous and aquatic plant collections, an herb garden and plant families (taxonomic) garden. One of these interns will be selected for the Martha Decker De Berry Intern and will dedicate the majority of their time to the care of the Coker Arboretum which is located in the middle of campus at UNC-CH. Another of the 2025 horticulture interns, who possesses outstanding qualifications, will be named the Sally Heiney Horticulture Student Intern in honor of a former employee in the department.
This position requires driving.

Graduation from high school and some experience in horticultural work; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Special Licensure or Certification: May require North Carolina Pesticide License; North Carolina Commercial Driver's License.

Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work. Some knowledge of cleaning procedures, ability to follow instructions and to perform medium to heavy physical work; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. NOTE: Some positions may require special licenses or certification.

NC Driver's License or ability to obtain one prior to start date.

Demonstrated ability to follow instructions and to perform medium to heavy physical work; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Experience with plants and gardening and a strong environmental ethic are preferred though not required.

H-1B sponsorship is not available for this position.

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, race, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.