Student Farm Intern: 2027 Cohort

Cagayan State University; Pennsylvania; On-site; USD 18,000 - 21,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State is seeking a student farm team member to lead and participate in diversified vegetable, greenhouse, herb, and cut flower production on campus. You will harvest, wash, and pack produce for Penn State Dining and CSA customers, attend weekly planning meetings, and manage crop activities with detailed record-keeping.

Role includes coordinating volunteer days and outreach, serving as an ambassador for the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm, and operating university vehicles as required.

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize, meet deadlines, and learn quickly in a fast-paced environment.
• Self-motivated with ability to work independently and with farm staff.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Reliable transportation between campus and the farm.

Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in diversified production (vegetable, greenhouse, herb, cut flower).
• Harvest, wash, and pack produce for Penn State Dining and CSA customers.
• Attend weekly farm planning and coordination meetings.
• Manage crop production activities and maintain records (irrigation, fertilization, pest management, weed control).
• Plan, coordinate, and lead volunteer workdays, tours, community events, and outreach.
• Serve as ambassador for the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm, promoting safety and inclusivity.
• Operate and drive University vehicles per policy.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Verbal communication

Written communication

Independent work

Outdoor work

Physical stamina

Job description

Your Role

Here’s what you will be doing:

• Lead and participate in diversified vegetable, greenhouse, herb, and cut flower production.
• Harvest, wash, and pack produce for Penn State Dining and Community Supported Agriculture customers.
• Attend weekly farm planning and coordination meetings.
• Manage crop production activities and maintain records related to irrigation, fertilization, pest management, and weed control.
• Plan, coordinate, and lead volunteer workdays, educational tours, community events, and outreach activities.
• Serve as ambassadors for the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm, promoting a safe, welcoming, and productive environment.
• Operate and drive University vehicles according to policies and training requirements.

About You

The company is looking for:

• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize responsibilities, learn new tasks quickly, meet deadlines, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Self-motivated with ability to work independently and collaborate with farm staff and fellow student farmers.
• Ability to work outdoors in various 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; public transportation and Spin bikes are available.

Compensation & Benefits

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

Training & Development

• Completion of a 2-credit training course during Spring 2027 semester (Mondays, 3:35-5:00 p.m. from January 11 to March 8, and 3:35-6:30 p.m. from March 15 to April 26).

Career Progression

• Opportunity to continue employment during Winter and Spring 2028 and beyond.