Blithewold Internships Opportunities

Blithewold is an ideal place for students to gain experience in a variety of disciplines, from Volunteer Coordination, to Programs and events. We view every intern as a valuable member of our team. Our internships are designed to be educational for our interns, growing their resume and portfolio, while still completing projects that are very important to Blithewold.

The Blithewold Mansion is located on the #60 bus route, just minutes from Roger Williams University and half an hour or less from Providence, Newport, and Southeastern Massachusetts, making it a convenient and exciting opportunity for undergraduates across the region.

Blithewold is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Horticulture Internship

Blithewold is seeking an inspired student of Horticulture to join the Horticulture Staff to work for a 8-12-week period this summer season. Employment may begin as early as May 22nd. The applicant should have a strong interest in ornamental horticulture, grounds maintenance practices as well as an ability to work with a team and independently. This position is open to specific interests in horticulture that apply to a historic landscape in a changing climate and applications may highlight those intents.

Applicants should be enrolled in a horticulture program or involved in the horticulture industry and looking to expand their base knowledge.
Duties are varied and wide ranging, covering all aspects of property maintenance as well as focusing on the restorations and renovation of garden areas and preservation of specific garden traits.

Sample projects include:
Working on our tree inventory and compilation and documentation of that collection
Assessing archival information and cataloging and digitizing the information therein
Garden specific restoration of the Rock Garden, Viburnum Collection, Woodland Garden, Enclosed Garden Borders
Maintenance of garden and landscape features


This is a paid internship (16$/hr) which may also qualify for college credit depending on program and advisor.

Submit letter of interest, pertinent work experience or suggested areas of focus to Director of Horticulture, Dan Christina via email at [email protected], as well as names and contact information of 2 references.

Volunteer Coordinator Internship

Blithewold, along with many other non-profit organizations, exist because of the generosity of volunteers. Volunteer Coordinator interns will learn about all aspects of volunteer coordination, from community outreach to volunteer support. Interns will gain a deeper understanding of non-profit volunteer programs and the relationship between volunteers and non-profit organizations.

Application deadline: Internships available year-round (applications should be received no later than two months before the start of the semester of interest).

Position: Unpaid

Hours Per Week: Approximately 10 – 15 hours per week. Schedule includes some evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities: The volunteer coordinator intern will assist the volunteer manager to support the many volunteers who contribute their time to the Visitor Center, Gift Shop, Mansion, Garden, and programs.

Expected Outcomes: Intern will take part in planning and implementing projects to recruit potential new volunteers. Interns will also use online scheduling and communication software to maintain volunteer communications and coordinate monthly volunteer update meetings and trainings.

  • Qualifications:
    3.0 or better GPA
  • Hardworking and reliable attitude
  • Excellent organization and communication skills
  • The desire to work with people of all ages and backgrounds is necessary
  • Intern must be prompt and able to work independently
  • Prior experience with community service or museums is a plus.

To Apply: Fill out the internship form by clicking the button below. Also please have a resume, cover letter, a writing sample, and unofficial transcript, ready to submit.

Education/Programs/Events Internship

One of the things that Blithewold is best known for is an abundance of exciting, entertaining, and educational programs for children, adults, and families. As an Education/Programming/Events intern, students will receive hands-on experience will all aspects of event planning and educational programming, from development to execution.

Application deadline: Internships are available year-round (applications should be received no later than two months before the start of the semester of interest).

Position: Unpaid

Hours Per Week: Variable. Schedule includes some evenings & weekends.

Responsibilities: The Education/Programs/Events intern is responsible for assisting with the development, coordination, and execution of Blithewold’s programs and activities. Events will vary depending on the season but range from camps and family activities to workshops and concerts.

Expected Outcomes: Intern will gain skills in problem-solving, time management, conflict resolution, and an in-depth understanding of all aspects of event planning and coordination.

Qualifications:

  • 3.0 or better GPA
  • Hardworking and reliable attitude and a flexible schedule. Blithewold offers new and unique programs each week and interns must be able to assist in set-up and operation.
  • Must pass a criminal background check.
  • Intern must have some experience in education or event planning.
  • Intern needs to be responsible and on-time.

To Apply: Fill out the internship form by clicking the button below. Also please have a resume, cover letter, a writing sample, and unofficial transcript, ready to submit.