Therapeutic Horticulture Intern

Wednesdays 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesdays 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

The North Carolina Botanical Garden ( NCBG) has been a leader in native plant conservation, horticulture, and education in the southeastern United States for more than 50 years. As part of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, we further the University's tripartite teaching, research, and public service mission through our own mission to cultivate connections between plants, people, and place through science, engagement, and conservation. As a garden focused on conserving the biodiversity of southeastern native plants, we recognize that just as biodiversity is critical to a healthy ecosystem, diversity in people and perspectives makes our organization and community stronger. NCBG is committed to creating an environment in our gardens and natural areas where everyone's voice is heard and everyone feels safe and welcome.

The Therapeutic Horticulture Intern position will help support our expanding direct service offerings and advance our long-term program goals. This position is ideal for a graduate of a horticultural therapy certificate program seeking to complete the American Horticultural Therapy Association ( AHTA) requirement of 480 supervised internship hours.

Primary Responsibilities:
* Assist with planning and facilitation of ongoing therapeutic horticulture sessions and related program activities.
* Participate in program setup, documentation, and evaluation.
* Develop a comprehensive plan to implement a therapeutic horticulture program group at the garden and conduct an associated community needs assessment.
* Identify potential funding sources or partnerships to support programming.

This position requires driving; a driving record check will be required.

Bachelor's degree; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Completion of a certificate program in Horticultural Therapy from an American Horticultural Therapy Association ( AHTA) accredited institution.

Demonstrated foundational knowledge of therapeutic horticulture principles, client-centered practice, and professional ethics.

Experience (classroom, practicum, or field-based) assisting with planning and facilitating therapeutic horticulture activities.

Strong organizational skills, with the ability to support program preparation, documentation, and basic evaluation processes.

Ability to work collaboratively with staff, community partners, and participants in a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and inclusive manner.

Commitment to reflective practice, professional development, and contributing to a positive learning environment.

Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage time effectively within a part-time schedule.

Experience working respectfully, effectively, and without judgment with diverse populations

Previous hands-on experience delivering therapeutic horticulture, horticultural therapy, or nature-based wellness programming in a community or healthcare setting.

Experience working directly with adults with mental health challenges, developmental or intellectual disabilities, chronic illness, or other specialized populations.

Familiarity with trauma-informed care principles and their application in group or nature-based program settings.

Knowledge of accessible garden design, including strategies for adapting activities to support client participation and independence.

Experience conducting basic program evaluation, needs assessments, or outcomes tracking.

Strong interest in community engagement, partnership development, or nonprofit program advancement.

Demonstrated ability to apply critical thinking and creative problem-solving in program design and implementation.

Experience with grant writing, donor reporting, or identifying funding opportunities to support programs or community initiatives.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, or similar platforms for documentation and reporting.

Ability to work comfortably in outdoor environments and garden settings in various weather conditions with or without reasonable accommodation.

H-1B sponsorship is not available for this position.

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.