Student Farm Intern: 2027 Cohort

Penn State University; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State University is seeking participants for the 2027 Student Farm Internship Cohort at University Park, PA. Interns will lead and participate in diversified production, harvesting, marketing, outreach, and events under supervision of the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm.

Prior ag experience is welcomed but not required; strong teamwork and eagerness to learn are valued. The internship emphasizes safe, collaborative work in outdoor environments, with opportunities to continue into

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize responsibilities, learn new tasks quickly, meet deadlines, and thrive in a fast-paced work environment.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently while seeking guidance and collaborating with farm staff and fellow student farmers when appropriate.
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, rain, and snow.
• Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Reliable transportation between campus and the farm is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in diversified vegetable, greenhouse, herb, and cut flower production.
• Harvest, wash, and pack produce for distribution to Penn State Dining and CSA customers.
• Plan, coordinate, and lead volunteer workdays, educational tours, community events, and outreach activities.
• Attend weekly farm planning and coordination meetings.
• Operate and drive University vehicles in accordance with University policies and training requirements.
• Maintain records related to irrigation, fertilization, pest management, and weed control.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Time management

Outdoor work

Physical stamina

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS 2027 Student Farm Internship - Cohort Program in University Park, PA

The Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm at Penn State University Park is offering paid opportunities for current Penn State students to join the Student Farm team for the 2027 growing season. Student farmers in the internship cohort program will lead and participate in diversified vegetable, greenhouse, herb, and cut flower production, as well as harvesting, marketing, community outreach, volunteer coordination, event planning, and other farm-related activities. Previous experience in agriculture or related fields is welcomed but not required. We seek students who are eager to learn, contribute meaningfully to farm operations, and help foster a positive and collaborative work environment.

Responsibilities

Student Farm Cohort Interns serve as ambassadors for the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm and play a leadership role in many aspects of farm operations. Essential responsibilities include promoting a safe, welcoming, and productive environment for fellow student employees, volunteers, Student Farm Club members, and classes participating in farm activities. Interns lead and contribute to a variety of farm operations, which may include:

• Attend weekly farm planning and coordination meetings.
• Sow seeds in the greenhouse and field and transplant crops throughout the growing season.
• Manage crop production activities and maintain records related to irrigation, fertilization, pest management, and weed control.
• Harvest, wash, and pack produce for distribution to Penn State Dining and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) customers.
• Plan, coordinate, and lead volunteer workdays, educational tours, community events, and outreach activities.
• Operate and drive University vehicles in accordance with University policies and training requirements.

Internship Details Compensation

Compensation: $13.25 per hour, beginning upon successful completion of the required spring training course.

Spring 2027 (Required): Completion of a 2-credit training course during the Spring 2027 semester.

Mondays, 3:35-5:00 p.m. (January 11-March 8, 2027) Mondays, 3:35-6:30 p.m. (March 15-April 26, 2027)

Summer 2027 (Optional but encouraged): May 10-August 18, 2027, approximately 35-40 hours per week.

Fall 2027 (Required): August 23 through mid-November 2027, approximately 12-15 hours per week.

Interns will complete a reflection and presentation as part of the cohort experience.

Continuation Opportunities: Interns can continue employment during Winter and Spring 2028 and beyond.

Work Environment

Work is primarily conducted outdoors in a physically active, all-weather, hands‑on, and team-oriented environment.

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize responsibilities, learn new tasks quickly, meet deadlines, and thrive in a fast‑paced work environment.
• Self‑motivated with the ability to work independently while seeking guidance and collaborating with farm staff and fellow student farmers when appropriate.
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, rain, and snow.
• Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Reliable transportation between campus and the farm is required. Public transportation and Spin bikes are available as commuting options.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. 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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