Do you have a strong desire to share your knowledge and enthusiasm for the natural world with students and families in a nature center environment?Shaver's Creek is Penn State University's nature center and environmental education laboratory seeking to enhance the quality of life by providing exemplary outdoor learning opportunities. Located twelve miles south of State College and the main campus of Penn State University, this multifaceted center offers environmental education programs for group visits, live birds of prey, amphibians and reptiles, hiking trails, native plant gardens, and more. The Raptor Center, providing perpetual care and housing for eagles, falcons, hawks and owls, is one of the few federally and state-licensed raptor facilities in Pennsylvania. |
| Immediate Job Opening |
Conservation Interpreter Now seeking a Conservation Interpreter (CI) to provide front-line visitor service and education to Shaver's Creek Environmental Center visitors, including welcoming and providing orientation to the site and visitor opportunities. The CI also supports, develops, and provides guided programs including hikes, aviary and herpetarium tours, community science initiatives, and tabling events, and includes staffing the bookstore and engaging with visitors in person and on the phone. CIs are entry-level positions for emerging professionals with an interest in interpreting the natural world to public audiences. This is a year-round, part-time position (typically 24 hours/week, with occasional weeks up to 40 hours for special events). Compensation includes $14/hour. Apply here. |
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| Summer Camp Jobs |
Summer Camp Naturalists Summer Camp Naturalists use available resources, existing knowledge, and new ideas to develop a lesson plan for their group each camp week. They lead group games, activities, songs, riddles, and explorative exercises, and provide support and leadership opportunities to Assistant Camp Naturalists and Leaders-In-Training ("LITs," who are teenage volunteers at camp), while ensuring the safety of everyone in the group. Prior experience with children (ideally informal or outdoor education experience) and a growth-oriented mindset are crucial for camp naturalist applicants. This position is a daily blend of education, camp fun, and mentorship! Ideally applicants must commit to the entire season (June 2–August 2, 2025). The first two weeks of June focus on training time, which includes certification in CPR/first aid, AED, and EpiPens, peer bonding opportunities, techniques for working with children, example games/activities, lesson planning guidance, time on the trails, emergency procedures, and what a day of camp really looks/feels like. Compensation starts at $11.50/hour plus time and a half (plan on working 47-50 hours/week) and includes housing for out-of-area applicants.
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Seasonal Environmental Education Internships |
Environmental Education Internships Environmental Education Interns become an integral part of the Shaver's Creek staff and are encouraged to participate in all aspects of the Center's operation. A two-week orientation and training period is followed by seasonal program opportunities in both day and residential settings. Interns work with all ages, preschool to adult, and with a variety of groups, including schools, private organizations, clubs, and the general public. Program areas provide each Intern an opportunity to work in planning, delivering and evaluating the Center's educational and recreational programming. Observation and videotaping are used in evaluation, and Interns are encouraged to keep a journal.
Internship Program Areas:
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| Location |
The Environmental Center is nestled in the ridge-and-valley area of central Pennsylvania located between State College and Huntingdon, only 12 miles from Penn State’s University Park campus. The many enticing hiking trails wind through the surrounding 7,000 acres of woodlands, hillsides, and marshlands of Penn State’s Stone Valley Experimental Forest, and connect to the beautiful trail system of Rothrock State Forest. |
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Time Commitment |
The time an Intern spends at Shaver's Creek is demanding and intensely rewarding. You must have a sense of purpose, love children and animals, enjoy people, and possess a willingness to communicate a joy in and respect for our natural and cultural heritage. Environmental Education internships are available during the winter/spring (January-May) and fall (September-December) seasons, with an average work week of 45 hours (which does include some weekends). |
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Perks & Rewards |
Interns are valued members of the Shaver's Creek staff. Benefits include a $200/week stipend along with on-site housing nestled in the woods away from park visitors, with a private bedroom. Interns are encouraged to participate in professional development workshops and regional conferences, and each season includes a three-day staff trip to another environmental center or a facility of interest. Interns also have a workspace with computer and Internet access. Career counseling, job listing resources, and assistance with resume writing are also provided. |
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The Essentials |
Individuals from around the country travel to Shaver's Creek to be a part of this unique internship program. Successful candidates have some experience working with children and a strong desire to teach and share their knowledge and enthusiasm for the natural world. A background in education or the natural sciences is helpful but not necessary. Applications are encouraged from undergraduates, graduates and those seeking a career change.
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| Your First Move & Connections |
Environmental Education Intern applicants must complete an online Intern application form. This form includes four essay questions, contact information for three professional references, and a place to attach your resume. Phone interviews are conducted with top candidates.
Doug Wentzel
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