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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

2026 Student Farm Internship – Cohort Program in University Park, PA

The Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm at Penn State, University Park, is offering paid opportunities for current Penn State students interested in working with the Student Farm for the 2026 growing season! Student farmers participating in the internship cohort program lead and participate in diversified vegetable, greenhouse, herb and cut flower production, harvest, marketing, community outreach, volunteer management, event planning, and more. Previous experience in relevant fields is welcome, but not required. We do ask students to be motivated to learn and contribute to a positive work environment.

Responsibilities

Student Farm Cohort Interns are the ambassadors to the farm and lead many operations related to the farm. Essential roles include ensuring that safety, produce quality, and a fun work environment are maintained among co-workers, volunteers, Student Farm Club members, and courses that may visit and work on the farm. Farm activities that Student Farm Interns lead and participate in may include:

• Attend weekly farm planning meetings
• Sow seeds in greenhouse and field, transplant plants in field
• Manage production and recordkeeping including irrigation, fertilization, pest and weed management
• Harvest, wash, and pack produce for distribution to campus dining and our CSA direct-to-consumer sales
• Plan, host, and lead volunteer days, events, and other tours at the farm
• Drive a university vehicle

Internship Details

• Pay is $12.50/hour – starting during the summer term
• Spring Term (required): completion of a 2-credit training course during the spring 2026 semester.
• Class is held Monday’s: 3:30-5pm (1/12/26-3/9/26) and 3:30-6:30pm (3/16/26-4/27/26)
• Summer Term (optional, but encouraged): May 11 – August 19, 35-40 hours/week
• Fall Term (required): August 24-mid November, 12-15 hours/week, internship reflection and presentation; good possibility to continue work in winter and spring 2027, and beyond
• Work is primarily outdoors, physically-oriented, in a team-based environment

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal and written communication skills
• Able to prioritize and learn new tasks quickly, meet deadlines, and enjoy a fast-paced work environment
• Must be self-motivated and be able to work independently, while also having the willingness to seek guidance as needed from farm staff and other student farmers
• Able to work outdoors in varied weather conditions including hot, cold, wind, rain, and snow
• Able to lift 50 pounds
• Own transportation between the farm and campus is required (bus and Spin bikes available!)

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

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.

The Pennsylvania State University 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.

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