Get Involved

HBS thrives because of the people who show up — volunteering in the gardens, joining the team, supporting our mission, and spreading the word. There's a place here for everyone.

Volunteer at HBS

Become part of a passionate community and help shape the future of Highlands Biological Station. Whether you're drawn to native plants, conservation, or simply enjoy time outdoors, there's a rewarding opportunity waiting for you.

Regular work days

Botanical Garden Volunteers

Help care for native plant gardens, enhance our landscapes, and contribute to conservation efforts. All skill levels welcome.
Wednesdays · Flexible schedules available

Dedicated garden plots

Adopt-a-Garden Program

Take ownership of a special space — the Bog Garden, Moss Garden, Pollinator Garden, or a trail — tending to it weekly under our Horticultural Specialist.

Organisations & teams

Group Workdays

Bring friends, coworkers, or your organisation for a meaningful team-building day. Email hbs@wcu.edu to coordinate a group visit.

Read volunteer stories →

How to get started

Ready to volunteer?

All volunteers complete two short forms. You can submit them in person at the HBS Main Office or email them to hbs@wcu.edu.

Volunteer Application WCU Volunteer Agreement

Questions?

Talk to our volunteer coordinator

Don't see an opportunity that fits? Reach out to explore other ways to get involved.

Sarah Vickery · svickery@wcu.edu

"The Station and its Botanical Gardens have been an important part of my life for several decades. I have enjoyed numerous workshops, lectures, and tours and learned so much about our native plants."

— Lynda Anderson, Botanical Gardens Volunteer

Join the Team

HBS is a collaborative environment where scientists, educators, and nature enthusiasts advance research, environmental education, and conservation in the southern Appalachians.

We update this page when positions become available. Check back often, or follow us on Facebook for announcements. For general enquiries, email hbs@wcu.edu.

WCU/HBS Benefits WCU/HBS Holiday Schedule WCU/HBS Working at WCU

Open positions

No additional positions open right now.
We post new openings here as they become available. Check back often or email hbs@wcu.edu to express interest.

Support the mission

Nearly a century of science, education, and conservation doesn't happen without community investment. Your support — at any level — sustains the work that makes HBS possible.

Become a Member About the Foundation

HBF Membership

Join the Highlands Biological Foundation and directly support programs, research, and public access. View membership levels →

Direct Donation

Make a one-time or recurring gift to support the botanical gardens, education programs, or research initiatives. Donate →

Volunteer with HBF

The Foundation also has its own volunteer programme. Sign up with HBF →

Stay connected with the station

Monthly dispatches from the plateau — program news, field reports, archive stories, and event updates.

For Nature Center & Foundation event updates, also subscribe here.