Intern – Horticulturist - Park Worker Seasonal Lead

Interested in joining Milwaukee County? Milwaukee County is searching for authentic people who are out to change the game and bring their whole selves to work every day.

Milwaukee County oversees operations from our Airport, Behavioral Health, Child Support Enforcement, Combined Court Operations, Sheriffs Department, Community Reintegration Center, Human Services, Parks, Public Safety, Public Works, Fleet Operations, Transportation, and at the Zoo. Our departments are also dedicated to our Seniors in the Department on Aging, those with Disabilities, and Veterans Affairs. Our employees also remain committed to serve the cultural, human, recreational and social needs of the entire community.

Milwaukee County offers a wide variety of interesting jobs for people who want to make a difference in our community. Milwaukee County provides a competitive benefit package and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  If disability related accommodations are needed, please contact 414-278-3936.
 

We are searching for Changemakers to come and join our team and discover our diverse and versatile community of independent spirits and unique talents, we are redefining the way you think about Milwaukee County!

Intern – Horticulturist - Park Worker Seasonal Lead

Boerner Botanical Gardens

Hourly Pay Rate: $17.98 $20.19

Job Summary:  The internship is designed to offer hands-on experience for students pursuing a career in horticulture, public gardening, or landscape design. The intern will work alongside our horticulture staff, seasonal staff, and volunteers. Duties will include planting, weeding, watering/irrigation, mulching, pruning, visitor interaction, plant labeling, inventory, collection records, special events, public education, and admissions. The intern, along with the help of staff, will determine a specific project that suits both the Gardens and the Intern.

Essential Responsibilities: 

• Garden maintenance & horticulture tasks - Assist in planting, weeding, mulching, watering, and general plant care. Prune trees, shrubs, and perennials under supervision. Identify and manage invasive species. Support seasonal display installations.
• Plant collection & data management - Assist with plant inventory updates, label plants, and update garden signage.
• Seasonal planting & greenhouse support - Assist in greenhouse care, propagate plants for garden use, and special projects.
• Special projects & research - Contribute to ongoing garden projects, support sustainability initiatives, and assist with restoration projects.
• Public engagement & visitor interaction - Answer visitor questions and offer educational insights about plants and gardening practices to enhance their experience.
• General operations & team support - Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers, follow safety protocols and proper tool use procedures.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Current resident of United States.
• Valid WI Driver’s License
• Ability to lift/Carry 30 lbs and push/pull 20 lb
• High School Diploma
• Must be currently enrolled in a college or technical program and completed one year focusing on horticulture or related field
• At least 6 months or more of experience in Horticulture, landscaping, or a related field.

More about this opportunity - 

• 40 hours/week for 12 working weeks.  Housing is not provided.
  • Demonstrated interest in horticulture, garden maintenance, or public gardens.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to perform physical tasks in various weather conditions.
• Target Audience:
  • College students enrolled in horticulture, botany, environmental science, or related fields with an interest in garden maintenance and/or public gardens.

NOTE:  This original application is open to permanent residents of the state of Wisconsin at the time of application. In accordance with Section 11, Rule 3 of the Civil Service Rules a non-competitive examination will be held for this position. The non-competitive examination will consist of criteria deemed appropriate by the Director of Human Resources.

APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AT TIME OF FILING APPLICATION

Milwaukee County is committed to fostering an equitable working environment, free from discrimination and harassment, on the basis of any characteristic protected by law. We prohibit any form of discrimination, harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, pregnancy related condition, national origin, age, disability, FMLA status, sexual orientation, military status, marital status, or any other category or status that is now or in the future protected by federal, state, and local law. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing, background checks and pre-employment physicals subject to job requirements. If special accommodations are needed, please contact 414-278-3936.