Sustainability in the Workplace Intern

Penn State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 5,500 - 11,000; Part time

Job summary

Penn State University is seeking a presently-enrolled student passionate about campus sustainability. The internship focuses on developing educational resources and programs for staff across the university, with involvement in the Sustainable Labs Program and the university-wide Sustainability Employee Resource Group.

Strong communication and independent work are expected. Experience with educational programs and tools like Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office is a plus.

Qualifications

• Currently-enrolled student with GPA above 3.0.
• Interest in sustainability and ability to learn independently.
• Excellent written, interpersonal and oral communication.
• Experience with educational program development is a plus.
• Experience with Canva/Adobe Suite and Microsoft Office is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist with development, planning, and implementation of educational programming for the Sustainable Labs Program.
• Support university-wide Sustainability Employee Resource Group management.
• Develop and refine educational resources like the Green Paws Certification Program and engage staff in programs.
• Collaborate with Sustainability and HR to integrate sustainability into professional development and training.
• Learn about global sustainability goals and translate concepts into materials for PSU employees.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Problem solving

Strategic thinking

Self-motivated learner

Tools

Canva

Adobe Suite

MS Forms

MS Excel

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Sustainability unit in Penn State's Office of Physical Plant is seeking a presently-enrolled student passionate about fostering sustainability on campus through education and engagement. This position will involve the development and management of educational resources and programs for staff and others across the university. The role entails significant involvement in supporting the Sustainable Labs Program and the university-wide Employee Resource Group (ERG).

The successful candidate will be a responsible and self-motivated learner with a GPA above 3.0, who possesses superb written, interpersonal and oral communication skills. The applicant should have an interest in, and some pre-existing knowledge about, sustainability issues and concepts . Must be curious, enjoy problem-solving and strategic thinking, and be capable of working independently.

Experience with developing and implementing educational programs or materials is a plus. Experience with graphic design platforms such as Canva and the Adobe creative suite, as well as Microsoft Suite (Forms, Docs, Excel) are a plus.

Specific projects include but are not limited to:

• Assisting with the development, planning, and implementation of educational programming and resources in support of the Sustainable Labs Program
• Helping with the ongoing management of a University-Wide Sustainability Employee Resource Group
• Developing and refining educational resources like the Green Paws Certification Program ; as well as engaging and supporting staff who participate in such programs
• Working with Penn State Sustainability and HR on the integration of sustainability into professional development and training processes
• Learn about global sustainability goals and translating those concepts into educational materials relevant to PSU employees

This paid internship will start in January 2027 for 8-12 hours per week, with the opportunity to extend to the summer as a full-time role.

Interested candidates must submit a resume and cover letter.

Background Checks/Clearances

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

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.