Fall Internships

Job Description

NTBG’s Internship Program is designed for energetic and motivated individuals. This is a “hands-on” physically demanding horticulture program first and foremost. Interns will work side-by-side with staff caring for and learning about the plant collections, including native Hawaiian species, breadfruit, and other tropical species. The schedule includes on-the-ground introduction and training, lectures, or workshops by NTBG staff faculty on plant propagation, plant records/mapping, botany, ethnobotany, restoration ecology, conservation, and other plant-related topics. For students interested in the establishment, development, and maintenance of botanical garden collections, this is an excellent work-study opportunity for college & university-level students and other adults to gain valuable, practical experience in a tropical setting.

About Us

The mission of the National Tropical Botanical Garden is to enrich life by perpetuating tropical plants, ecosystems, and cultural heritage.

Education and Experience

Applicants must:
● Be a college-level student or have relevant experience or education
● Have a valid Driver’s License to operate a motor vehicle in the US.
● Show an aptitude and strong interest in tropical horticulture, botany, conservation, ethnobotany, or science-related fields with mature career goals in this direction
● Be able to provide proof of eligibility to work in the U.S. upon start of employment

Additional Information

Lodging is available upon request for a fee. Interns are responsible for their own airfares to/from Līhu‘e, Kaua‘i, Hawai‘i, own meals (suggest allow at least $35/day), and a shared vehicle for those in housing to use primarily for program participation.

Program will run August 4- November 7, 2025

Wage: $16.00/ hr. Interns are covered under NTBG worker’s compensation.

Application Instructions

Applications – Complete online at ntbg.org/courses to include the following PDF attachments:
● One (1) letter of recommendation
● Copy of Diploma or equivalent
● Resume

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Applicants will be notified of placement decisions no later than May 30, 2025