The site interns will work closely with the Site Manager to assist in maintenance and design of the 12-acre demonstration site, with the intention of establishing both an aesthetically pleasing and functional learning tool in support of the Solar Living Institute's educational programs and public demonstration. The intern's physical assistance and knowledge is important in maintaining the landscape and facilities on a daily basis. This ultimately will promote the long-term health of both the living and built environments at the Solar Living Center, thus ensuring an enjoyable, inspiring, and educational experience for the visiting public.

Tasks could include but are not limited to the following:

• Maintain individual gardens through overall plant care including careful observation and documentation, regular pruning, fertilizing, weeding, and mulching
• Maintain and repair irrigation systems through regular checks on each zone
• Maintain pond areas through weekly raking, algae and pond weed removal, and aerator pump monitoring
• Maintain and develop compost systems and apply finished, screened compost to gardens as needed
• Maintain organization of tool and materials storage
• Maintain general site cleanliness and organization
• Repair equipment and tools as needed
• Natural building maintenance
• PV systems maintenance
• Educational displays maintenance
• Existing facilities repair and maintenance

BENEFITS
Through assisting with site maintenance, this intern will have access to many educational opportunities as well as helpful skills related to landscape and building care. Depending on skills and interest, successful interns will develop skills within the logistical and physical management of an educational site. Interns will acquire additional skills in irrigation, plant care, pond and greywater systems, PV systems, and permaculture design.

QUALIFICATIONS
We are seeking a dynamic, organized and enthusiastic person with a passion for the outdoors and holistic management. This intern needs to be in good physical condition, able to lift 50 pounds consistently individually and/or with assistance, and be comfortable working outdoors in hot or cold weather. The intern is expected to complete the applicable trainings for power tool safety and care. While training can be provided in all other areas as necessary, prerequisite/preferred qualities include:

• Knowledge of and experience with permaculture design, horticulture, and landscape maintenance and construction practices
• Knowledge of and experience with plant care such as pruning and fertilizing
• Experience with organic gardening
• Experience with basic irrigation systems
• Experience with equipment maintenance and repair
• Familiarity with power tools such as drills, miter saws, and circular saws
• Strong awareness of safety when working on a project
• Good time management and organizational skills
• Ability to work with changing priorities as needed
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to communicate in Spanish a plus