Nursery Intern - Spring / Summer 2026

Job Description

Job Description

Location : Illinois

Duration : 10–15 weeks (Spring / Summer)

Schedule : Full-time, seasonal (40 hours / week)

FLSA Status : Non-Exempt – Paid Internship

Housing : Based on availability

About the Opportunity :

At Bailey Nurseries, we believe our people are the root of our success. Our internship program is designed to help you grow—both professionally and personally. As a Nursery Intern, you'll gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and insight into a career in horticulture, marketing, IT, HR, inventory, or nursery operations, depending on your interests and our site needs.

You’ll work alongside experienced professionals, contribute to meaningful projects, and explore the many paths our industry has to offer. This internship is an opportunity to dig deep and bloom.

What You’ll Do :

Duties vary by location and department but may include :

Propagate and care for new plant stock in growing fields, containers, or greenhouses

Assist with preparing plant orders for shipment and loading trucks

Perform greenhouse maintenance and seasonal care tasks

Prune, shape, stake, and weed trees and shrubs

Help maintain plant records, labels, and inventory counts

Support various teams including HR, Sales, IT, or Marketing based on assigned location

Engage in special projects or initiatives as assigned

What We’re Looking For :

Current enrollment in a horticulture or related program

Strong critical thinking and organizational skills

Interest in sustainable practices and nursery operations

Plant identification skills are a plus

Enthusiasm and a proactive attitude

The spring internship program begins as early as January and continues through the end of May. This program can be combined with our summer internship program, which ends in August. There is flexibility on the beginning and end dates to accommodate school schedules.

Disclaimer : This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check

Bailey Nurseries is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

Employment with Bailey Nurseries is at-wil l and may be terminated at any time by either party, in accordance with applicable law.

If you need assistance or reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact our HR team.