The horticultural intern assists River Farm horticulturists with the day-to-day care and ongoing development of the American Horticultural Society’s national headquarters.

Interns help with garden maintenance, visitor and member services, interpretative programs, integrated pest management, seasonal exhibits and displays, and plant identification. Interns should be prepared to work outdoors in varied weather, including rain and heat. The work is physically demanding, and interns must be able to lift at least 30 pounds, as well as stand, bend, kneel, and reach throughout the day. The horticultural intern will complete an individualized garden-based project, in addition to regular plant walks and field trips to gardens in the greater Washington, D.C. area.

Horticultural internships are open to anyone interested in a career in horticulture, with preference given to those pursuing a degree or who have completed a degree in horticulture, or a related field.

The AHS is currently unable to host international interns who are not lawful aliens.

The duration of AHS Internships is from three to six months:

May-October (priority deadline March 15)

Compensation is $10.00/hr. The workweek is 37.5 hours from Monday through Friday, with Saturday morning rotations required. Housing is the responsibility of the intern. Assistance in finding accommodations is provided with a listing of potential rentals, affordable apartment office contacts, and a map of the area.

Applications for the horticultural internship should include the following:

• Completed online application
• Current resume
• College transcript (a copy will do)
• Three professional references
• A statement of professional purpose

To apply, please email the documents listed above to internships@ahsgardening.org or mail hard copies to:

Dan Scott
Associate Director, Horticulture and River Farm
American Horticultural Society
7931 East Boulevard Drive
Alexandria, VA 22308