San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives. Empowering people from around the globe to support our mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships, we support cutting-edge conservation, and bring the stories of our work back to our two world-famous front doors - the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park - giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action. The deep and extensive knowledge gained from more than a century of experience in wildlife care, health, veterinary services, nutrition and conservation makes us invaluable in the global effort to save species. Our team members play a crucial role in driving our conservation efforts forward and bringing us closer to a world where all life thrives.

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 Learning Events 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

• JOB EXPERIENCE
• Training and/or experience that would demonstrate the 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
  

SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Complimentary Tickets
• Local and In-House Discounts

IMPORTANT DETAILS

• Location: Both San Diego Zoo & Safari Park
• Position Type: 12-week Internship
• Pay: Stipend of $5,000

Be an ally for wildlife by joining our team!

At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we thrive on celebrating our differences. Diversity is vital for the benefit of our team members, our guests, our community, and our wildlife.

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 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.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.

• San Diego County, CA, USA