Horticulture/Wildlife Intern
Horticulture/Wildlife Intern
Job Summary:
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History, founded in 1920, is located in the heart of University Circle, five miles east of downtown Cleveland, Ohio. For more than a century, the Museum has inspired visitors to connect with the wonders of science and nature. Today, we continue that legacy—and remain committed to sharing our resources to promote a healthy future for both humans and the planet.
As Ohio’s largest natural history museum, we use our vast collections and state-of-the-art facilities to contribute to scientific understanding worldwide. Our scientists conduct research across a variety of disciplines, making groundbreaking discoveries about early human ancestors, ancient Ohio, animal and plant life around the world, and more. We steward more than 12,500 acres of wild habitats through our Natural Areas Program, working to protect the environment of northern Ohio and the diverse species that call it home.
The Kirtlandia Intern for the Wildlife Division will be assisting the Wildlife staff with the horticultural needs of the Perkins Wildlife Center. This intern will also participate in a science-based research project regarding the interaction of flora and fauna that will benefit the student’s knowledge as well as the animal programs and natural areas on the CMNH property.
This is an 8-week program at 40 hours per week (320 hours) and will run from June 10, 2026 until August 8, 2026. This intern will be expected to work Sunday through Thursday from 8 am until 4 pm. Interns will present their internship-related activities at the Friends of CMNH annual August luncheon meeting. More information can be found here: Internships | Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Required to Apply:
- Write a brief 1-2 page statement that:
- Details your background and research interests
- Explains why you are a good candidate for this position
- Describes your previous training and research experience
- Discusses how you expect to benefit from your experience as a Research Intern
- Curriculum vitae
- Two letters of recommendation with your application. Alternatively, letter writers may email them directly to hr@cmnh.org
- Must be authorized to work in the United States
Responsibilities:
- Assist with the monitoring of horticulture in Perkins Wildlife Center.
- Removal of vegetation from animal habitats and surrounding mesh.
- Identify invasive plant species or those harmful to humans or animals.
- Maintain the plant beds and public areas by removing leaves, branches and debris.
- Organize and maintain the horticulture storage area.
- Suggest native plants and ground cover to be added to beds in Perkins Wildlife Center.
- Learn and participate in duties for animal care, enrichment and training.
Requirements:
- Intellectual curiosity and a passion for science, nature and conservation
- Ability to pay attention to details and follow directions
- Good Organizational skills
- Basic computer skills
- Interest in learning new information and skills in the areas of Native Ohio plants and animals.
- Ability to remain calm and professional through stressful or ambiguous circumstances; able to calmly interpret information and solve problems.
- Ability to work independently as the leading member of this project.
Working Conditions:
Working on uneven soil surfaces and hillsides with some elevated heights using ladders or stairs. Working, walking, and standing for extended periods of time throughout the day. Must be able to lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, ADA EMPLOYER, and a SUBSTANCE-FREE WORKPLACE