Greenhouse Intern

OBJECTIVE / ACCOUNTABILITY

The Greenhouse Intern gains hands-on experience across multiple areas of a wholesale production nursery, developing practical knowledge of the complete plant production cycle—from propagation through sales and distribution. Designed to complement an accredited two- or four-year degree program, this internship provides meaningful work experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to nursery operations while supporting the company's commitment to quality, safety, continuous improvement, and exceptional customer service. Interns rotate through various departments based on educational objectives, business needs, and individual interests while contributing to daily operations and special projects.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Nursery Operations & Production

• Participate in daily nursery operations across multiple departments, including propagation, greenhouse production, growing, plant health, production, inventory, and shipping. 
• Assist with plant propagation, potting, pruning, irrigation, and general crop maintenance. 
• Learn greenhouse environmental controls, production scheduling, and nursery operations. 
• Assist with inventory management, production planning, plant transfers, and production reporting. 
• Learn the safe operation of nursery equipment and tractors under supervision. 

Plant Health & Technical Learning

• Assist with monitoring irrigation, fertility, nutrition, pH, and EC levels. 
• Learn integrated pest management (IPM) principles by assisting with scouting and identifying insects, diseases, and plant health concerns. 
• Gain experience with fertilizer injection systems and best management practices. 
• Participate in plant evaluations, research trials, and data collection to support continuous improvement. 
• Assist with documentation, recordkeeping, and development of production resources. 

Professional Development & Team Support

• Collaborate with growers, supervisors, and cross-functional teams to support daily operations and seasonal priorities. 
• Complete department and individual projects that support both business objectives and educational goals. 
• Demonstrate initiative by asking questions, seeking feedback, and actively participating in learning opportunities. 
• Contribute to a positive, collaborative work environment while supporting company goals and customer expectations. 
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support operational success.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Strong interest in horticulture, agriculture, plant science, or a related field. 
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office or similar software. 
• Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills. 
• Positive attitude with a willingness to learn new skills and take initiative. 
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment. 
• Demonstrates professionalism, dependability, and accountability.

EDUCATION AND / OR EXPERIENCES

• Currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from, an accredited two- or four-year degree program in Horticulture, Agriculture, Plant Science, Landscape Management, or a related field. 
• Internship must satisfy the educational requirements of the student's academic program. 
• Previous nursery, greenhouse, landscaping, farming, or horticultural experience is preferred but not required.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

• Ability to work safely in a fast-paced outdoor environment in varying weather conditions. 
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 pounds. 
• Ability to prioritize work, adapt to changing priorities, and meet deadlines. 
• Demonstrated curiosity, initiative, and a desire to expand technical knowledge. 
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with a diverse team. 
• Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment and following company policies and procedures.

COMPENSATION INFORMATION

• $17.00/hour

BENEFITS

• Paid Holidays
• Employee discount
• A collaborative, team-oriented workplace recognized as a Top Workplace in 2024 and 2025

ABOUT THE COMPANY

For more than 50 years, Midwest Groundcovers has been a trusted leader in the Green Industry, growing and propagating more than 20 million premium wholesale plants each year. While groundcovers remain our specialty, our diverse product offering includes evergreens, broadleaves, deciduous shrubs, perennials, ornamental grasses, vines, and native prairie, wetland, and woodland species.

We proudly partner with landscape architects, landscape designers, contractors, municipalities, and other green industry professionals to provide innovative plant solutions that promote beauty, durability, and sustainability throughout the Midwest. Our commitment to quality, continuous improvement, and exceptional customer service has made us one of the region's premier wholesale growers.

At Midwest Groundcovers, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We're proud to have been recognized as a Top Workplace in 2024 and 2025, reflecting our commitment to fostering a collaborative, supportive, and purpose-driven work environment where employees can grow both personally and professionally.

If you're looking to build a meaningful career with a company that values teamwork, innovation, and a passion for horticulture, we'd love to have you join our team.