Horticulture Intern - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION

The Horticulture Intern works under supervision from Horticulturists, Leads and Supervisors. In this role, interns will gain knowledge and experience in horticultural, grounds maintenance, and tree-related work in their assigned area(s).

Interns will also have the opportunity to learn about various specializations in the zoological career field through regularly scheduled Lunch and Learn Lectures with leading subject matter experts and specialized tour experiences at both the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Mows, edges, irrigates and fertilizes lawns

• Fertilizes and cultivates plantings and shrubs

• Prepares new areas for planting

• Plants transplants and nurtures seedlings and other new plantings

• Collects seeds

• Prunes shrubbery and trees

• Rakes, sweeps and generally maintains an appealing appearance to grounds

• Controls pests

• Answers questions from the public

• Assist with special projects as needed

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Applicants must be currently pursuing or planning to pursue an undergraduate degree. Candidates who will have completed a bachelor’s degree prior to the end of the internship are not eligible. A cover letter is required and must be included with the application for consideration.

JOB EXPERIENCE

• Training and/or experience that would demonstrate the essential functions, knowledge and skills listed.

• Must be 18 years of age or older

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Desire to pursue a career in the horticultural field.

• Plant Identification and GIS knowledge/experience are a plus

• Communicate effectively (verbal and written)

• Able to learn the proper methods and procedures for watering techniques, work safety practices, tree removal & maintenance and applying fertilizers and insecticides

• Comprehend and follow instructions

• Communicate and work effectively with others

• Work in a team environment and motivate others

• Follow directions effectively

• Deal tactfully and courteously with others

IMPORTANT DETAILS

• Location: San Diego and Escondido , CA

• Position Type: 10-Week Internship from June 14, 2027 - August 20, 2027

• Stipend: $4,160.00

Fraudulent Recruiting

Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.

If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail [email protected]. If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.

At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we celebrate our differences and foster a culture of belonging. Diversity strengthens our employees, enriches our guests’ experiences, deepens our connection to our community, and supports the wildlife we serve.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to [email protected] and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.

As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. We are not offering sponsorship for this position at this time.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.