Native Plant Propagation and Habitat Management

WCC Department: Native Plant Center
Hiring Manager: Faith Kostel-Hughes
Duration: Fall 2026
Location: WCC, Valhalla Campus
Pay: Westchester County Minimum Wage for up to 120 hours

Position Summary:
The Native Plant Propagation and Habitat Management Intern will assist with the restoration and management of native plant habitats. Under the guidance of environmental and horticultural professionals, the intern will gain hands-on experience in native plant propagation and habitat management practices to support local biodiversity.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with propagation of native plant species in WCC gardens and field settings, including seed collection, cleaning, stratification, sowing, and transplanting.
• Monitor growth and health of propagated plants, recording data accurately.
• Support habitat restoration and management, including site preparation, planting, and invasive species removal.
• Collaborate with staff and other local professionals on habitat restoration efforts.
• Conduct field assessments to identify native and invasive species, and document habitat conditions.
• Maintain propagation areas, tools, and equipment in clean, safe working order.
• Follow all safety and environmental protocols.

Required Qualifications:

• GPA: 2.5 or better, student in good standing
• 24 hours of earned credits at time of internship
• Ability to work 8 hours a week/120 hours over the semester in the internship
• Currently enrolled as an environmental science or environmental studies major at SUNY WCC
• Interest in native plant ecology, conservation, or habitat restoration.
• Ability to perform outdoor physical work in various weather conditions.
• Strong attention to detail, ability to follow protocols and work independently.
• Good communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team setting.
• Pre- or co-requisites:
  • BIOL 115 General Biology 1 (Lecture & Lab)
  • BIOL 117 – General Biology 2 (Lecture & Lab)
  • BIOL 144 – Environmental Science Lab
  • BIOL 143 – Environmental Science Lecture OR BIOL 155 – Environmental Studies
• Permission of the Environmental Science & Studies Curriculum Chair is required

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this internship, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of native plant propagation techniques.
2. Identify common native and invasive species in regional habitats.
3. Apply habitat restoration methods to enhance biodiversity.
4. Work collaboratively to support local habitat restoration efforts.

Compensation:

• Westchester County Minimum wage for up to 120 hours
• Paid in 2 stipends: mid semester and end of semester

Academic Credit/Semester:

• Fall 2026 semester
• # of Credits: 1, 2 or 3 credits

Work Schedule: 40 hours/semester for each credit