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 2025 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 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
- Work with community partners including food pantries, community gardens, and area schools
- Plan, host, and lead volunteer days, events, and other tours at the farm
- Drive a university vehicle
Internship Details
- Pay is $12.00/hour – starting during the summer term
- Spring Term (required): completion of a 2-credit training course during spring 2025 semester. Class is held Monday’s from 3:30-6:30pm
- Summer Term (optional, but encouraged): May 6 – August 21, 35-40 hours/week
- Fall Term (required): August 26-November 22, 12-15 hours/week, internship reflection and presentation; good possibility to continue work in winter and spring 2025, and beyond
- Work is primarily outdoors, with computer-based work including record keeping, event planning and blog writing
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!)
To apply, please submit your cover letter, resume and contact info for three references through the button below. We encourage applicants to apply by October 1st when interviews begin. Please note that applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until positions are filled.