Horticulture Production Intern - Illinois

Midwest Groundcovers LLC•Maple Park, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Horticulture Production Intern gains hands-on experience across multiple areas of our Illinois wholesale production nursery while contributing to the daily success of the operation. Through guided learning, meaningful projects, and cross-functional collaboration, the intern develops practical knowledge of the complete plant production cycle—from propagation through sales and distribution. This internship is designed to complement an accredited two- or four-year degree program while fostering professional growth, curiosity, continuous improvement, and a commitment to quality, safety, and exceptional customer service.

Requirements

Strong interest in horticulture, agriculture, plant science, or a related field
Positive attitude with a willingness to learn, ask questions, and embrace new challenges
Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and follow-through
Effective communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build positive working relationships
Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office or similar software
Commitment to working safely, acting with integrity, and supporting a collaborative team environment
Currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from, an accredited two- or four-year degree program in Horticulture, Agriculture, Plant Science, Landscape Management, Environmental Science, or a related field
Internship satisfies the educational requirements of the student's academic program
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions while maintaining a strong commitment to safety and quality
Ability to perform physical work, including standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying up to 50 pounds
Ability to prioritize tasks, adapt to changing priorities, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with diverse teams
Strong observation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills with a focus on continuous improvement
Ability to demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and sound judgment while supporting customers, coworkers, and company goals

Nice To Haves

Previous nursery, greenhouse, landscaping, farming, or horticultural experience is preferred but not required

Responsibilities

Participate in daily operations across multiple nursery departments, including propagation, greenhouse production, growing, plant health, inventory, production, and shipping
Assist with plant propagation, potting, pruning, irrigation, fertilization, and general crop maintenance while maintaining high standards of plant quality
Support greenhouse operations by gaining experience with environmental controls, production schedules, and seasonal workflows
Assist with inventory management, plant transfers, production reporting, and documentation to help maintain accurate records and efficient operations
Safely operate tools, equipment, and tractors under supervision while following established safety procedures and contributing to a safe work environment
Assist with monitoring irrigation, nutrition, pH, EC levels, and fertilizer application while learning best horticultural practices
Support Integrated Pest Management (IPM) efforts by scouting for insects, diseases, weeds, and other plant health concerns
Participate in research trials by organizing, maintaining, evaluating, and collecting data to support continuous improvement and innovation
Assist with developing production resources, documentation, and process improvements that support operational excellence
Demonstrate curiosity by asking questions, seeking feedback, and applying new knowledge throughout the internship
Build positive working relationships by collaborating with growers, supervisors, and team members across multiple departments
Support departmental and individual projects while demonstrating initiative, accountability, and attention to detail
Adapt to changing business priorities and contribute wherever needed to support operational success
Communicate openly, listen respectfully, and work collaboratively to solve problems and deliver results
Represent Midwest Companies professionally by maintaining a positive attitude, honoring commitments, and contributing to an environment where people enjoy working together