Job Opportunities

See below for available positions.  Applications for Botanical Garden Assistants and Naturalists are submitted through Western Carolina University. Click the links below each position for more information and to apply.

Education Specialist

The Highlands Biological Foundation, Inc. is seeking a fulltime environmental educator to conduct year-round educational programming and to manage the Highlands Nature Center. This position involves managing summer Nature Camps and seasonal staff as well as developing and implementing programming for all ages.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis through Wednesday, March 20th or until the position is filled.

Naturalist

The Highlands Nature Center is recruiting Naturalists to support a wide variety of summer programming.  Naturalists lead Nature Camps, which encompass a variety of exploratory, placed-based learning for children ages 5-13. They also serve as program support for events conducted by the Highlands Biological Foundation, including evening lectures and programming.

Applications due Friday, March 15th.

Volunteer Opportunities at HBS 

We have lots of volunteer opportunities at the Station! If you have specific interests that are not listed below, please email the Program Assistant to discuss potential opportunities.

All volunteers are required to complete a Volunteer Application, WCU Volunteer Agreement, and COVID release. Please fill them out completely and drop them off at the HBS Main Office or email them to hbs@wcu.edu.

Botanical Garden Volunteers

Highlands Botanical Garden needs you — join our intrepid and dedicated group of volunteers!  All levels of experience are welcome — come learn about gardening and landscaping with native plants, or just share your passion for gardening or native plant conservation. Wednesdays are regular volunteer work days, but any schedule can be accommodated.

Adopt-a-Garden Program

Our Adopt-a-Garden program is designed to give volunteers the opportunity to “adopt” one of our many garden areas, such as the Bog Garden, Azalea Walk, or Pollinator Garden. Volunteers would be in charge of tending to their assigned garden each week under the direction of the Horticultural Specialist. Trail maintenance opportunities are available too.

Group Workdays

For more information on volunteering as a group, please email us at hbs@wcu.edu.