Overview
The 197-acre Arboretum has over 8 miles of trails that showcase its rare and unique plant collections. This position would introduce trail building and provide practical skills for constructing walkways to enhance the visitor experience of the living collection. There will be FOUR internship positions available.
Responsibilities:
The Trail Building Interns will work with Lyon staff to identify deteriorating trails throughout the garden and revitalize them. These interns will learn to evaluate appropriate trail designs that are safe for visitors and durable in a high rainfall environment. In addition, interns will utilize skills to install new trails and improve existing trails throughout the Arboretum. Activities include clearing vegetation, leveling, grading, constructing, installing, and graveling in accordance with Lyon’s trail-building procedures. Interns will also recommend and install appropriate directional signage throughout Lyon’s trail system.
Requirements:
Recently graduated high school/ college students interested in the outdoors, hiking, and able to work in inclement weather and carry 50 lbs. Must be over +18 and have a Hawaii State Driver’s License. Some construction background is preferred.
Schedule:
June 2nd, 2026 through August 7th, 2026
4 days a week, Tuesday -Friday (State and Federal holidays observed)
The workday will start at 7:30 am sharp and end at 4:15 pm with an hour lunch break at 12 pm (noon)
The Trails Interns will also be able to join the Lyon/FLA summer interns on select field trips outside of the Arboretum and other learning opportunities. In the past, field trips included visiting other botanical gardens and service work at the Mānoa Cliffs restoration site and Mt. Kaala.
Award
4 open spots with an award of $3,500 each (in two installments, one midway through internship and one given during the last week of internship). Both payments are contingent upon the successful completion of activities during each period.
How to Apply
We are accepting applications beginning February 6th, 2026
Deadline to apply is April 24th
You are REQUIRED to submit the following documents via the UH File Drop service. The recipient email is liloa@hawaii.edu
- Cover letter, addressed to Līloa Dunn, Grounds Manager
- Resume
- Transcript (unofficial transcript is acceptable)
Please review: How to use the UH File Drop Service: UH File Drop Instructions – Trails Internship
Ready to upload your documents?
- The recipient email address is Liloa@hawaii.edu
- UH File Drop Link: https://www.hawaii.edu/filedrop/
Resources
Our internships are highly competitive, and it is important that your documents are presented professionally. If you need help with your cover letter and resume, check out these resources:
- Mānoa Career Center
- Cover Letter Guide
- Resume-building resources
- Here are two guides for listing your professional references, too: one from Balance Careers and one from Indeed.
Mahalo for your interest in the Lyon Arboretum Summer Trails Internship program!