Part-time Youth and Family Programs Intern - Summer 2027

Penn State University•University Park, IL

4d•$16 - $17•Onsite

About The Position

The Arboretum at Penn State is offering paid ($16.00/hr. undergraduate, $17.00/hr. graduate) part-time (20-30 hour/week) 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 3, and ending August 20, 2027. 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. This internship provides an experiential introduction to outdoor, place-based education in a botanic children’s garden setting. Interns will work together with the Arboretum’s Youth and Family Programs education staff to develop and facilitate nature-based programs and activities related to central Pennsylvania's ecology, geology, plants, and animals. 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. Interns will build meaningful relationships with staff, peers, volunteers, the University, and the local community through teamwork and collaboration. This internship meets hours requirements for Recreation Park and Tourism Management (RPTM) 495A.

Requirements

Resume or CV
Cover letter
Contact information for at least two professional references.
Applicants should be currently enrolled in or recent graduates from an undergraduate or graduate degree program and should demonstrate a strong interest in environmental education.
A background in education, recreation, natural science, human development, or a related field is an asset.
PA State Police Criminal Background Check
PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form
Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check
Valid driver’s license
Successful completion of a motor vehicle records check

Nice To Haves

Preference will be given to candidates who can explain how this opportunity will help them reach their career goals.
Written letters of recommendation highly preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop, facilitate, and evaluate outdoor learning experiences, educational activities, lesson plans, and programs.
Embrace a growth mindset by demonstrating critical thinking, taking on leadership roles, and seeking opportunities for professional engagement.
Enroll in a mandatory 9-week non-credit tuition-free Canvas course (currently titled Upskill Penn State) designed to support reflection on experiential learning.
Participate in paid, regularly scheduled community education days.