Part-time Youth and Family Programs Intern - Summer 2026

Penn State University • Ferguson Township, PA

71d • $14 - $15

About The Position

The Arboretum at Penn State is offering paid ($14.00/hr. undergraduate, $15.00/hr. graduate) part-time (20-30 hour/week) summer internships for undergraduates, graduate students, and recent graduates interested in career paths in environmental education and related careers. The positions are for 16-week terms, beginning on May 4, and ending August 21, 2026. 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 education staff to develop and facilitate nature-based programs and activities related to central Pennsylvania's ecology, geology, history, and culture. 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.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in or recent graduates from an undergraduate or graduate degree program.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in environmental education.
• A background in education, recreation, natural science, human development, or a related field is an asset.
• Resume or CV.
• Cover letter.
• Contact information for at least two professional references.
• Written letters of recommendation highly preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Ability to explain how this opportunity will help reach career goals.

Responsibilities

• Develop, facilitate, and evaluate outdoor learning experiences, educational activities, materials, and programs.
• Staff field trips, tours, and events for visiting school groups, community members, and university functions.
• Act as an informal 'garden guide' for visitors to the children’s garden.
• Participate in paid, regularly scheduled community education days.

Benefits

• Paid internship at $14.00/hr. for undergraduates and $15.00/hr. for graduates.
• Experiential introduction to outdoor education.
• Exposure to public gardens and horticulture.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree