Job Number: REQ_0000072426
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Arboretum at Penn State is offering paid ($14.00/hr. undergraduate, $15.00/hr. graduate) part-time (20-30 hour/week) summer internships for undergraduates, graduate students, and recent graduates interested in career paths in environmental education and related careers. The positions are for 16-week terms, beginning on May 4, and ending August 21, 2026. Scheduled internship activities generally take place between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on weekdays. Some evening and weekend availability will be required.
Experience:
This internship provides an experiential introduction to outdoor, place-based education in a botanic children’s garden setting. Interns will work with the Arboretum’s education staff to develop and facilitate nature-based programs and activities related to central Pennsylvania’s ecology, geology, history, and culture. The position will expose interns to the world of public gardens and horticulture, field trip facilitation, lesson planning, event planning, volunteer management, public relations skills, and donor support.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Develop, facilitate, and evaluate outdoor learning experiences, educational activities, materials, and programs.
- Staff field trips, tours, and events for visiting school groups, community members, and university functions. Act as an informal “garden guide” for visitors to the children’s garden.
- Participate in paid, regularly scheduled community education days.
Qualifications:
Applicants should be currently enrolled in or recent graduates from an undergraduate or graduate degree program and should demonstrate a strong interest in environmental education. A background in education, recreation, natural science, human development, or a related field is an asset. Preference will be given to candidates who can explain how this opportunity will help them reach their career goals.
Requirements:
- Resume or CV
- Cover letter
- Contact information for at least two professional references. Written letters of recommendation highly preferred.
Application:
- Applications must be submitted online via the Penn State Careers Website: https://hr.psu.edu/careers
- Please make certain to include a cover letter, resume or CV, and reference contacts/letters of recommendation with your application materials.
- Deadline for application is January 31, 2026.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
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