Job Description

Summer 2026 Internship Opportunity ****

About the Position

The Plant Conservation Science Internship at Mt. Cuba Center offers an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on experience in plant research and conservation. As an integral member of the Plant Conservation Science team, interns will participate in field-based research and data collection throughout the region. This position combines extensive fieldwork (60-80% of time) with office-based research and analysis, providing a comprehensive learning experience in plant conservation. Interns will develop practical skills in field survey methods, ecological monitoring, and data management while contributing to real-world conservation efforts.

Essential Functions of the Role

This dynamic position combines field research with data analysis and project support. The intern will work closely with the Plant Conservation Science team while developing essential skills and knowledge in plant research and conservation.

Primary Responsibilities Include

Field Research:

• Conduct plant surveys and population monitoring during the day in primitive field conditions
• Assist with ecological research project data collection
• Document plant populations and habitat conditions
• Support experimental monitoring in forest and meadow settings
• Participate in habitat assessments and threat evaluation
• Collect data for ongoing ecological experiments

Office-Based Work:

• Support project preparation through species identification research
• Assist with data entry and management
• Participate in team meetings and project planning
• Contribute to data analysis and interpretation
• Document research findings and observations
• Research plant habitat preferences and conservation needs

Qualifications and Skills

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum one year of college completed
• Coursework or planned program of study in ecology, plant biology, horticulture, or conservation
• Demonstrated interest and curiosity in plants
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
• Ability to work outside and hike on uneven terrain
• Ability to carry up to 30 pounds
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in field work settings
• Prior plant identification experience
• Experience with data collection and management
• Knowledge of native plants and ecological concepts
• Familiarity with basic research methods

Learning Outcomes

Interns will develop:

• Practical experience in field-based plant survey techniques
• Skills in plant identification and documentation
• Experience in ecological monitoring methods
• Data collection and management capabilities
• Data interpretation skills
• Professional network within plant conservation
• A deeper understanding of scientific research methods

About the Role: Compensation & Schedule

• Compensation: $17.00 per hour
• Duration: May 18 through August 21, 2026
• Schedule: 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday
• Location: Mt. Cuba Center, Hockessin, Delaware
• Benefits include paid holidays and sick time
• Housing is not provided
• Field work transportation provided
• Opportunities for professional development and networking

Interview & Hiring Process

We require the following in order to consider your application:

• Resume
• Cover letter

If you progress through additional stages in the hiring process you can expect to:

• Complete the online position questionnaire
• Complete a virtual screening interview
• Participate in a final interview with the Hiring Manager and interview panel

Please note: All applications will be reviewed by our team, and all candidates will receive a status update via email after their application has been reviewed. Due to capacity constraints on our hiring team, we are unable to provide you with a specific status update beyond these parameters.

Recruitment Timeline:

• Application deadline: January 16, 2026
• Application review begins: Week of January 19, 2026
• Final decisions communicated: Mid-February 2026

Commitment to Diversity

Mt. Cuba Center is committed to diversity and inclusivity. We encourage qualified candidates from all cultures and communities to apply. For accommodations or assistance with your application, please email careers[a]mtcubacenter.org.

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