Interested in gaining some experience in Sustainability work? Come work for us!

Sustainability Data Intern

Penn State Sustainability is seeking a Penn State student to join our ​Operations Team​ focused on identifying ​sustainability opportunities in research labs and procurement systems​. This student will be capturing energy, emissions, and waste data to guide decision making. Applicants should have an ability to translate complex information into understandable forms for a variety of audiences.  An interest in and knowledge about sustainability issues and concepts is preferred.

The successful candidate will:

  • Be a team player, with a GPA above 3.0, and superb written, interpersonal and oral communication skills.
  • Be a quick learner, able to manage, organize and synthesize multiple sources of information into reports and possible recommendations.
  • Possess a strong work ethic and be an independent worker who can work proactively and independently and be ready to take initiative and anticipate and adapt to potential developments as they arise

Duties may include, but are not limited to:

  • Assisting in the development of sustainability standard operating procedures for campus research labs;
  • Developing data collection and analysis tools;
  • Collecting and analyzing data on lab waste, energy consumption, and emissions;
  • Benchmarking sustainable research lab practices at other institutions, universities, and colleges;
  • Meeting with subject matter experts and recording their input;
  • Making a business case for sustainable lab procurement and operations recommendations;
  • Attending Sustainable Lab Ambassador, My Green Lab Coordinator meetings, and Sustainable Lab Leadership Team meetings;
  • Creating reports that show the data collection and analysis efforts to a general audience;
  • Reporting on results to student, faculty, staff, and administrative stakeholders;
  • Maintaining a log of goals, activities, and objectives;
  • Working with other interns as well as Sustainability and Sustainability Council staff.

Preference will be given to Federal Work Study candidates who demonstrate knowledge of life cycle analysis, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and data collection and analysis.

This paid internship will be for up to 15 hours per week during the academic year with an option to continue in the summer for up to 35 hours a week. Compensation rate is $14/hr.

Penn State Sustainability offices are in the Land and Water Research Building near the outdoor track. Please apply online through Workday and submit a cover letter and résumé. Questions should be directed to Krista Bailey, Sustainable Campus Strategist, at kbailey@psu.edu.