Be You.

Sarah P. Duke Gardens is looking for enthusiastic students to join our 2026 Summer Internship Program, a 10‑week immersive experience designed for those who want hands-on exposure to horticulture and public garden operations. You’ll work across all areas of our 55‑acre public botanic garden—one that welcomes over 600,000 visitors each year—and learn directly from skilled horticulture staff. 

This internship is designed to help you explore the diverse world of public gardening through hands‑on learning, weekly plant ID classes, field trips to botanic gardens and nurseries, and opportunities to gain real experience in garden maintenance and design. Whether you're a traditional student or making a career change, this internship gives you the chance to grow your skills and learn from experienced professionals.

Minimum Requirements

• Successful completion of a basic botany or introduction to horticulture course
• Completion of at least one plant identification class
• Relevant experience in horticulture, ecology, environmental studies, or related fields will be considered
• Self‑motivated and able to work independently and as part of a team 

Preferred Qualifications

• Work experience in horticulture or related fields (not required but considered) 

Other Requirements

• Ability to stand, bend, squat, kneel, sit, and reach for extended periods
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Ability to operate hand tools and power equipment safely (training provided)
• Basic computer skills (Windows, Excel, Outlook, Word)
• Commitment to working in a community that values collaboration, belonging, and diverse perspectives 

Housing: On‑campus housing is provided at no cost, but use is optional. Questions may be sent to the Director of Horticulture at the provided email.

Be Bold. — What You’ll Do

• Participate in horticultural tasks including planting, watering, weeding, pruning, mulching, and general garden care
• Rotate through each of Duke Gardens’ thematic areas for broad exposure
• Attend weekly plant identification classes taught by staff
• Join educational field trips to botanic gardens, nurseries, and other sites in North Carolina
• Learn about garden design, plant production, and various roles within the green industry
• Work directly with horticulture staff on daily operations and seasonal projects

Choose Duke.

At Sarah P. Duke Gardens, you will join a community rooted in curiosity, learning, and collaboration. Our internship program gives you the opportunity to connect with experienced horticulturists, explore different sectors of the green industry, and contribute to the care of a nationally recognized public garden.

Duke fosters an environment where innovation and inclusion thrive, and where every intern is valued for the unique perspectives they bring. This is your opportunity to grow your knowledge, explore a future career, and be part of a garden that inspires hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

Duke is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.