Part-Time Summer Camp Assistant Naturalist - Shaver's Creek Environmental Center

Application Instructions

CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student) must log into Workday for internal application. PENN STATE STUDENT should use the Workday student application. NOT a current employee or student, please apply externally.

Work 47–50 hours each week; all hours outdoors on Shaver’s Creek trails. Gear must be carried in a backpack and weighs 10–15 lbs. Pay is $10.50 per hour for the first 40 hours worked in a week; hours above 40 are paid at time and a half. Housing may be available for out‑of‑area applicants, with rooms filled on a first‑come, first‑served basis.

• Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. for the first two weeks in June, including certification in First Aid, CPR, AED, and Epi‑Pens.
• Peer bonding, game design, lesson planning, safety procedures, and day‑to‑day camp operations are covered.

• Monday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Tuesday–Thursday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:15 p.m.
• Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
• Saturday (overnight stay): 6:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
• Mid‑season week (July 6) is a partial schedule with professional development and goal‑setting sessions.
• Full commitment is preferred: the entire June 1 – August 1, 2026 period. Candidates who can attend only two full weeks of training and three weeks of program may be considered.

• Ensure the safety of all campers and maintain compliance with PSU and Shaver’s Creek policies.
• Communicate clearly and frequently with campers, staff, and supervisors.
• Lead or co‑lead games, activities, songs, riddles, and explorative exercises throughout the week.
• Set goals, track progress, and report on outcomes.
• Support medical treatment and maintain accurate records.
• Assist with transportation (busing) if available, and engage campers during rides.
• Serve as the “LIT Assistant” during one week of the summer program, assisting with the LIT program and behind‑the‑scenes logistics.
• Assist in creating and printing camper journals and other camp materials.
• Demonstrate appreciation and support for team members and campers (e.g., writing Thank‑You letters, sharing positive feedback).

• Strong leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience working with children and outdoors preferred.
• Ability to commit to the full camp season or at least to the two‑week training and three weeks of program.
• Completion of all required PSU trainings prior to the start of camp.
• Clearance through PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and FBI Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.

• Critical thinking, creativity, communication, leadership, and problem‑solving training.
• Professional development sessions throughout the season.
• Possible internship credit.
• Immersion in nature and environment.
• 2‑year certifications in First Aid, CPR, AED, and Epi‑Pens.

Submit a complete application and cover letter explaining why you want to work at Shaver’s Creek summer camp, your relevant skills, and a résumé. Three references are required during the interview stage. Apply via the PSU Careers portal: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

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 cannot use the online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, a culture of belonging, and equitable opportunities for all members of our community.