Horticulture Internship

The CALDWELL ZOO • Tyler, TX

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Horticulture Intern works alongside Caldwell Zoo’s horticulture team to help maintain and enhance the Zoo’s landscapes, gardens, greenhouse, and public spaces. The internship provides practical experience in plant care, landscape maintenance, greenhouse production, and the considerations involved in maintaining horticultural spaces in a zoological environment.

The internship runs from January 13 through May 11, 2027. Interns must arrive at least three business days before the start date to complete onboarding. Requests for planned time off, except for illness or emergencies, must be discussed during the interview and approved before the internship begins.

The position is based at Caldwell Zoo in Tyler, Texas. Gross pay is $580.62 biweekly before taxes and applicable deductions. Optional housing may be available, with a deduction from pay if elected. Applicants must submit a resume, cover letter, and unofficial college transcripts by November 15, 2026.

Requirements

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Be a college sophomore or higher classification at the time of application.
• Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
• Provide documentation of a negative TB test.
• Be able to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Be able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, rain, and other inclement weather.
• Demonstrate a strong work ethic, willingness to learn, dependability, and a professional attitude.
• Submit a resume, cover letter, and unofficial college transcripts.

Nice To Haves

• Students pursuing degrees in horticulture, plant science, botany, landscape management, environmental science, or related fields are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Assist with watering, fertilizing, weeding, planting, pruning, and general landscape maintenance throughout the Zoo.
• Learn how plant selection, landscape design, and horticultural practices contribute to animal habitats, exhibit aesthetics, and the guest experience.
• Assist with greenhouse operations and care for bedding plants, hanging baskets, and other ornamental plants.
• Help maintain turf areas, pathways, and public spaces through mowing, trimming, debris removal, and other groundskeeping activities.
• Support waste management, litter removal, recycling, and efforts to maintain clean and sustainable Zoo grounds.
• Develop professional communication and visitor relations skills in a public-facing environment.
• Shadow up to five additional Zoo departments to learn about career opportunities in zoological facilities.
• Assist with ongoing horticulture projects, seasonal plantings, and other tasks supporting horticultural operations.
• Follow Zoo safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and departmental protocols.

Benefits

• Paid internship with gross pay of $580.62 biweekly before taxes and applicable deductions.
• Optional housing may be provided for interns who need accommodations; a housing deduction applies if elected.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed