Objective
Interns will experience the sustainable choices available in organic gardening by working with the Horticulture team in the gardens at Shedd. The focus will be on learning to grow food and natural landscapes, as well as learning the art of bee keeping.

Summary
At Shedd Aquarium, we have a variety of organic gardens around the building that have been developed as educational experiences for our visitors. We will be planting fall crops, learning about season extension, and getting the gardens and the bees ready for winter. Interns will work independently and with our team to learn the skills needed to accomplish these things.

Responsibilities & Duties

• Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values
• Partner with the gardeners to learn about late season gardening and sustainable seeds
• Practice the skills required for growing healthy gardens.
• Support the team with planting and harvesting vegetables
• Assist with planting fall annual displays
• Helping with weeding, watering, and dead-heading the current displays
• Participate in fall clean-up as needed
• Assist with bee care
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Desired Majors: Horticulture, Urban Agriculture, Environmental Studies or similar

Other Skills/Characteristics:

• Previous horticulture training helpful, but not required
• Ability to handle multiple projects
• Strong communication skills and an outgoing, friendly personality
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• A strong desire to learn about horticulture
• Comfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
• Ability to walk over uneven terrain as well as bend, crouch and squat
• Ability to carry tools and push carts of plants and supplies

Time Commitment:

• Minimum of 16-21 hours per week
• Minimum of 3 months
• Schedules days must fall Monday-Friday between the hours of 9am and 4pm. No weekends available.
• Set schedule based on intern availability.

Application Deadline: August 31st, or until positions are filled, whichever comes first.