INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Kirtlandia Intern - Horticulture/Wildlife

CompanyCleveland Museum of Natural History
LocationCleveland
Work ModeOn Site
PostedFebruary 18, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
The intern will assist Wildlife staff with horticultural needs at the Perkins Wildlife Center, including monitoring, vegetation removal, invasive species identification, and maintaining public areas. They will also learn and participate in animal care, enrichment, and training duties.
Internship Type
intern
Company Size
212
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
40 hours
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About The Company
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History (CMNH), founded in 1920, is located in the heart of University Circle, five miles east of downtown Cleveland, Ohio. Considered one of the finest institutions of its kind in North America, the Museum offers an incredible visitor experience, attracting roughly 275,000 visitors a year. There are more than 140 public education programs and over 80,000 students served annually. The Museum employs about 160 people. Building on its strong foundation of excellence in education and research, the Museum is poised to transform itself. The Museum will invite and engage a broader audience in the exploration of science and the natural world by revolutionizing the way it presents natural history. The Museum has launched a capital campaign to support a dramatic renovation and expansion of its facilities and exhibits. This ambitious plan will position the Museum to play a leading role in regional and national efforts to improve science education and increase scientific literacy.
About the Role

Horticulture/Wildlife Intern

Job Summary:

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:

  1. 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, especially in biological anthropology and archaeology
    • Discusses how you expect to benefit from your experience as a Research Intern
  2. Curriculum vitae
  3. Two letters of recommendation with your application. Alternatively, letter writers may email them directly to hr@cmnh.org 

 

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

 

 

 

Key Skills
HorticultureWildlife ManagementResearchData CollectionInvasive Species IdentificationPlant IdentificationAnimal CareAnimal EnrichmentProblem SolvingAttention To DetailOrganizational SkillsComputer SkillsIndependent WorkProfessionalism
Categories
Science & ResearchEnvironmental & SustainabilityAgriculture