Horticulture Internship

Milwaukee County oversees operations from our Airport, Behavioral Health, Child Support, Combined Court Operations, Sheriff's 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 and those with Disabilities in Aging and Disability Services, and Veterans in Veterans Services. Our employees also remain committed to serving 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. For submitted application inquiries please contact careers@milwaukeecountywi.gov. Please note: an online application must be submitted for consideration.

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!

Horticulture Internship

Milwaukee County Parks

Hourly Pay Range: $15.91 - $23.87

Parks Equity Statement: Milwaukee County Parks is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse work force that is demographically and racially representative of Milwaukee County residents. Milwaukee County Parks leadership is committed to honoring diverse experiences, perspectives, and unique identities, while fostering work environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming.

Job Summary: The Horticulture Internship provides hands-on experience for students pursuing careers in horticulture, public gardens, landscape maintenance, or plant production. The intern will work with horticulture staff, seasonal staff, and volunteers to assist with plant care, garden maintenance, plant labeling and inventory, greenhouse or conservatory support, and visitor engagement. This position supports the maintenance and operation of either Boerner Botanical Gardens or The Domes, depending on site assignment.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Assist with planting, weeding, mulching, watering, pruning, and general plant care in public garden landscapes or indoor plant collections. Support seasonal displays, assist with invasive species management where applicable, and help maintain plant health under the supervision of horticulture staff.
• Assist with plant inventory activities, including labeling plants, updating plant records, supporting collection documentation, and maintaining plant identification signage.
• Assist with greenhouse or conservatory plant care, including watering, propagation, transplanting, and preparation of plants for seasonal displays or garden installations.
• Support horticulture staff with ongoing garden improvement projects, restoration work, sustainability initiatives, and other horticultural programs within Milwaukee County public garden facilities.
• Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers to support daily horticulture operations. Follow safety procedures, proper tool use practices, and Milwaukee County workplace policies.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

• Authorized to work in the United States.
• Possession of a valid United States Driver's License, able to be maintained throughout employment.
• Possession of a High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• Previous experience or have completed relevant coursework in Horticulture, Landscaping, or a related field.
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Basic knowledge of two-way radios or mobile communications.
• Willing and able to lift and carry up to 30 lbs, and push and pull up to 20 lbs.
• Willing and able to travel up to 5% of the time in this role.

NOTE: This original application is open to permanent residents of the United States. Appointee must establish residency in the state of Wisconsin within six months of start date and maintain such residency during incumbency. 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.