Archives Internship
Description
The U.S. National Arboretum’s mission is to enhance the economic, environmental, and aesthetic value of ornamental plants through research, conservation, and display through long-term, multidisciplinary research, conservation of genetic resources, and interpretive gardens and exhibits. The Public Horticulture and Engagement Unit (PHEU) manages the Arboretum’s archives of historical documents and images and is seeking a summer 2026 intern.
The archives intern will assist the Museum Specialist in general archives maintenance as well as develop an independent project relevant to their professional goals. All Arboretum interns participate in educational programs and field trips and conclude their internship with a staff presentation of their work. This paid ($20/hr), three-month internship will begin in either May or June of 2026. College credit may be available if arranged in advance. Housing is not provided.
Qualifications
Applicants must have completed coursework or acquired practical experience in archives or a related field. Skill in paying attention to detail, the ability to handle fragile and/or dusty records, and the ability to work independently are essential. An interest in history or plants is a plus. Applicants must be US citizens. We are unable to make exceptions.
Duties & Working Conditions
This internship includes archival duties involving reference, arrangement, description, evaluation, and preservation and rehabilitation of historical materials; then, preparation of finding aids. The intern will be trained on the Arboretum’s internal image database and scanners in order to upload digital materials. This position is located at the Arboretum’s Washington, DC, campus. Work is primarily performed in an office setting and in material storage areas. Although mostly sedentary, it may occasionally require walking, reaching, and bending, as well as lifting and carrying items up to approximately 20 lbs.