Part-time Youth and Family Programs Intern - Summer 2027

Job Description and Position Requirements

The Arboretum at Penn State is offering paid ($16.00/hr. undergraduate, $17.00/hr. graduate) part-time (20-30 hour/week) 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 3, and ending August 20, 2027. 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 together with the Arboretum’s Youth and Family Programs education staff to develop and facilitate nature-based programs and activities related to central Pennsylvania's ecology, geology, plants, and animals. 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. Interns will build meaningful relationships with staff, peers, volunteers, the University, and the local community through teamwork and collaboration.

This internship meets hours requirements for Recreation Park and Tourism Management (RPTM) 495A.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop, facilitate, and evaluate outdoor learning experiences, educational activities, lesson plans, and programs.
• Embrace a growth mindset by demonstrating critical thinking, taking on leadership roles, and seeking opportunities for professional engagement.
• Enroll in a mandatory 9-week non-credit tuition-free Canvas course (currently titled Upskill Penn State) designed to support reflection on experiential learning. 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.

Background Checks / Clearances

• PA State Police Criminal Background Check
• PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form
• Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check
• Operation of a motor vehicle requires a valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check in addition to standard background checks.

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 View phone number on click.appcast.io. Penn State 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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