Natural Lands Steward Internship

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library encompasses an unrivaled museum of American decorative arts in its mansion and galleries and a magnificent 60-acre naturalistic garden—all set on 1,000 gorgeous acres.

Winterthur employs a wide array of positions in the areas of curatorial, horticulture, education, conservation, library, maintenance, marketing, development, technology, and administration.

Winterthur offers a unique and rewarding experience that is rich in culture and natural beauty. Winterthur considers its employees and volunteers to be among its greatest assets and welcomes applications from candidates who will contribute their specific skills to its mission “to inspire, enlighten, and delight all of its visitors while preserving and enhancing [Winterthur]” and also uphold its core values of agility, excellence, innovation, integrity, inclusion, and transparency.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Natural Lands Stewardship Intern will learn about and gain experience implementing proper land management practices while working closely with natural lands staff to preserve and maintain Winterthur’s meadows, woodlands, waterways, and wildlife. The intern will have the opportunity to work with the Horticulture staff responsible for implementing proper management practices, exploring new practices, and maintaining outlying areas throughout Winterthur. The Natural Lands internship is an outstanding learning and growth opportunity for a student considering or intending to enter the environmental profession.

Compensation: $15.00/hour

Benefits:  Including, but not limited to, 403b with employer match for eligible employees; discounts in the museum store and cafe; free general admission for you and your immediate family. Limited free housing available on site.

Work Schedule:  This is a seasonal position expected to last from May 20 – August 15, 2025. Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 2:30 pm (35 hours/week plus optional 5 extra hours).

Responsibilities:

1. Natural Lands Management: Assist with environmental projects in meadows, woods, riparian areas, and streams and ponds, including management of wildlife and livestock. Activities will include identifying and removing invasive plants, maintaining native plants, enhancing habitat for native wildlife, maintaining trails, monitoring bird populations, and caring for Winterthur’s herd of goats. Use of large equipment (mowers, tractors, backhoes), small/handheld equipment (string trimmers, leaf blowers, pruners, handsaws), and systemic herbicides.
2. Land Stewardship: Develop awareness of the principles of best management practices and how they shape Winterthur’s philosophy towards environmental conservation.
3. Equipment Maintenance: Learn proper cleaning, sharpening, maintenance, and storage of job-related equipment.
4. Natural Resource Evaluation & Inventory: Document existing resources and explore new ones.
5. Continuing Education: Participate in a variety of trainings, plant identification classes, and field trips in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the wider field of public horticulture.

Requirements

Minimum Experience: Enrolled student or recent graduate of an accredited college or university. One semester of completed coursework in environmental science, horticulture, or a related field. Three months of practical, hands-on experience in environmental science, horticulture, or a related field.

Preferred Experience: Two years of completed coursework in environmental science, horticulture, or a related field is preferred. At least one semester of study in natural lands stewardship, preferred. One year of practical, hands-on experience in environmental science or horticulture, with some time devoted to natural lands stewardship, preferred.

Knowledge/Skills:

1. Ability to operate hand and power equipment safely.
2. Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
3. Basic knowledge of environmental terminology & practices.
4. Ability to execute oral and written directions.
5. Ability to express ideas clearly, orally and in writing.
6. Basic computer knowledge.

Essential Functions:

1. Exposure to pesticides.
2. Safe operation of hand-tools and motorized garden equipment.
3. Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
4. Exposure to insect bites and poison ivy.
5. May be asked to work in inclement weather or emergency situations.
6. Have adequate hearing and sight in order to be aware of nearby guests and staff when the employee is using or is around equipment such as mowers, weed-eaters, blowers and sprayers.
7. Ability to walk over rough terrain. 

*At the time of application, you will be required to submit a cover letter and resume. Should you advance in the interview process, we will require a copy of your most recent transcript and two letters of recommendation.

The deadline for applications is March 21, 2025. Searches may close once a suitable candidate has been identified or may continue beyond the deadline if suitable candidates have not been identified. Please note: Winterthur is currently unable to consider applicants from countries outside the United States.