Part-Time Youth and Family Programs Intern - SP 2027

Penn State University; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 22,000 - 23,000; Part time

Job summary

The Arboretum at Penn State is offering paid part-time internships for undergraduates, graduates, and recent graduates interested in environmental education in a botanic children's garden setting. The positions run 17 weeks from January 11 to May 7, 2027, with work generally scheduled between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

on weekdays, and some evenings and weekends may be required. Interns will develop and facilitate nature-based programs, work with the Youth and Family Programs education staff, and

Qualifications

• Applicants must be currently enrolled in or recent graduates from an undergraduate or graduate degree program.
• Interest in environmental education is encouraged.
• Experience in education or outdoor programming is a plus.

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 Canvas course (Upskill Penn State) designed to support reflection on experiential learning.

Skills

Interest in environmental education

Education

Enrolled in undergraduate or graduate program

Job description

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 17-week terms, beginning on January 11, and ending May 07, 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 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.

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

Submissions must include a cover letter, resume or CV, and reference contacts/letters of recommendation with your application materials. Candidates will be contacted for interviews beginning in November 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. 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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