Sustainability in the Workplace Intern

The Pennsylvania State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University, Sustainability unit, is seeking a presently-enrolled student to develop and manage educational resources and programs campus-wide. This paid internship offers hands-on experience in supporting the Sustainable Labs Program and the university's Sustainability Employee Resource Group.

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong written and verbal communication, a GPA above 3.0, independence, and an interest in sustainability concepts; experience with Canva,

Qualifications

• Must have a GPA above 3.0.
• Currently enrolled student.
• Interest in sustainability concepts and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist with development, planning, and implementation of educational programming and resources for the Sustainable Labs Program.
• Support ongoing management of the University-Wide Sustainability Employee Resource Group.
• Develop and refine educational resources like the Green Paws Certification Program and engage staff involved in such programs.
• Collaborate with PSU Sustainability and HR on integrating sustainability into professional development and training processes.
• Learn about global sustainability goals and translate concepts into PSU staff education materials.

Skills

Written communication

Oral communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

GPA > 3.0

Currently enrolled student

Tools

Canva

Adobe Creative Suite

Microsoft Office

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

• 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

Compensation & Working Hours

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.

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.

Additional Information

Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines There’s a reason Penn State consistently ranks among the top one percent of the world’s universities. Across 24 campuses, our 100,000 students and 40,000 faculty and staff know the real measure of success goes beyond the classroom – it’s the positive impact made on communities across the world. Our ideals stem from our origins as Pennsylvania’s sole land-grant institution, which allow us to continue to bring positive impact to humanity through our teaching, research, and engagement mission. And across the world is a community of Penn Staters – more than half a million strong – driven by that same spirit to serve our local and global communities. At Penn State, passion is met with collaboration in an environment that is rooted in shared pride for the accomplishments of our fellow students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Penn Staters cheer each other on to build a culture committed to service and engagement. Our University values represent our core ethical aspirations for all our daily activities and actions as students, faculty, staff, and volunteers at Penn State. Our values are as follows; Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Discovery, Excellence, and Community. We Are Penn State. One Community. Impacting Many.