Youth Development 4-H Summer Interns (Non-UMN Students)

About the Job

Title: Youth Development 4-H Summer Interns, Non-UMN Students (continuous)

Classification: Non-UMN Students classified as Job Code 0006, Non-Exempt Temporary (up to 100 days in a calendar year)

Full/Part Time (FTE): Varies by location, 20-40 hours per week; dependent on location and program event dates

Regular/Temporary: Temporary, 8-13 weeks, starting in mid-May to early June and typically end in August.

Pay Range: $15.25 per hour for year 1 interns; returning interns in year 2 $15.56, year 3 $15.87, year 4 $16.18.

Interview Date: Initial interviews will be held December 3-9, 2026, via Zoom.

Apply By: November 29, 2026

About the Positions

4-H Summer Intern positions provide meaningful professional youth development work experience for the student intern working alongside Extension Educator(s). Each intern will be assigned projects or focus areas determined by program needs and if applicable, to meet internship course credit requirements. Each intern will work with their supervisor to set goals, establish a plan to meet desired outcomes and review progress throughout the internship.

Location and Work environment:

Positions are located across Minnesota, typically based out of county or regional Extension offices. Some or many hours might be completed in a site/ space where programming is being conducted; this could be on county or other fairgrounds, or in specific program site locations. Work-related mileage and expenses will be reimbursed. Housing will not be provided. Interest in available locations and roles will be collected in the required job screening questionnaire survey.

Work Schedule:

Schedules vary per role. Non-UMN student employees cannot work more than 100 days in a calendar year. Hours are worked during the days, evenings and weekends depending on the position and location. 4-H Summer Intern positions are contingent on local funding and vary from 8 to 13 weeks, with part-time to full-time hours. Positions will begin in mid-May to early June and typically end in August. Some positions will start at less than full-time and flex to full-time during peak periods during assigned events or local fairs. This position is eligible for overtime pay for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Working overtime is limited to large event needs (county fair, camp) and must be pre-approved by your supervisor. Schedules will be determined by the supervisor, and hours are reported by the employee on a timesheet each week or pay period. Interest in available locations and roles will be collected in the required job screening questionnaire survey. Specific locations and work will be discussed in the interviews for these positions.

Positions:

(1) County 4-H Summer Intern

4-H Summer Intern positions will work with a local county 4-H program). Project focus of the internships may include developing and implementing day camp curriculum, marketing youth programs, planning and coordinating events/activities, partnership development, and related. Pay Range: $15.25-16.18 an hour. Works 0-40 hours per week, varies depending on work available. A specific work schedule will be determined with the supervisor.

Responsibilities typically include but are not limited to:

• Assist the Extension Educator in developing lesson plans
• Assist the Extension Educator with preparing materials as well as attending and implementing educational programs, events, and activities, including county fair and other showcases
• Assist with coordinating registration and logistics for youth participants and volunteers
• Work with Extension Educator to collect program data and participant feedback for evaluation and program improvement
• Assist with promotion of the 4-H program to potential youth members, families and volunteers
• Assist with implementing strategies for reaching new audiences or enhancing current programs
• Work with Extension Educator partner programs to help build partnerships
• Help prepare for, attend, and participate in overnight and multi-day camps, fairs and other events where more than 8 hours will be worked in a day at various locations with indoor and outdoor aspects.
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• Required to complete job screening questionnaire to be considered for any roles (https://z.umn.edu/4-Hinternlocation)
• High school diploma or equivalent required, and must be at least 18 years old by the start date.
• Candidates must be currently enrolled as an undergraduate College or University student through the duration of the internship and must not be graduating from their undergraduate program in Spring 2027. (Current University of Minnesota students are not eligible under this posting, see UMN student posting to apply)
• Basic experience with word processing, email and internet browsers.
• Proficient in oral and written English communication skills.
• Ability to work at camp and fair locations, many without temperature or weather controlled areas; at times staying overnight on site in basic camping conditions.
• The ability to communicate and work effectively with individuals from various cultural, ethnic, and diverse backgrounds, including youth, parents, adult volunteers, and staff.
• Good problem-solving skills and a solid understanding of risk management.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's degree program with a focus in youth development, education, human development, agriculture or natural resources.
• The completion of at least two years of college.
• Volunteer or work experience with youth in grades K-12.
• An interest in an Extension career.

(2) State Program 4-H Summer Intern

These interns work with statewide program teams in the areas of Plant Science and Outdoor Education. Pay range: $15.25-$16.18 an hour. Hours will fluctuate; may work up to 40 hours per week; may include days, weekends, evenings, or all. A specific work schedule will be determined with the supervisor.

Responsibilities typically include but are not limited to:

• Assist the Extension Educator in developing lesson plans
• Assist the Extension Educator with preparing materials as well as attending and implementing educational programs, events, and activities
• Assist with coordinating registration and logistics for youth participants and volunteers
• Work with Extension Educator to collect program data and participant feedback for evaluation and program improvement
• Assist with promotion of the 4-H program to potential youth members, families and volunteers
• Assist with implementing strategies for reaching new audiences or enhancing current programs
• Help prepare for, attend, and participate in overnight and multi-day camps, fairs and other events where more than 8 hours will be worked in a day at various locations with indoor and outdoor aspects.
• Work with Extension Educator partner programs to help build partnerships
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• Required to complete job screening questionnaire to be considered for any roles (https://z.umn.edu/4-Hinternlocation)
• High school diploma or equivalent required, and must be at least 18 years old by the start date.
• Candidates must be currently enrolled as an undergraduate College or University student through the duration of the internship and must not be graduating from their undergraduate program in Spring 2027. (Current University of Minnesota students are not eligible under this posting, see UMN student posting to apply)
• Basic experience with word processing, email and internet browsers.
• Proficient in oral and written English communication skills.
• The ability to communicate and work effectively with individuals from various cultural, ethnic, and diverse backgrounds, including youth, parents, adult volunteers, and staff.
• Ability to work at camp and fair locations, many without temperature or weather controlled areas; at times staying overnight on site in basic camping conditions; ability to work frequently in outdoor environments.
• Ability to travel throughout the state for programming events; overnight stays may be required for some events.
• Good problem-solving skills and a solid understanding of risk management.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's degree program with a focus in youth development, education, human development, agriculture, or natural resources.
• The completion of at least two years of college.
• Volunteer or work experience with youth in grades K-12.
• An interest in an Extension career.

Qualifications

Additional requirements/working conditions for all jobs:

• A willingness to become familiar with and work within the philosophy and guidelines of University of Minnesota Extension, the Minnesota 4-H program, and the local 4-H program
• Must complete all required training, including but not limited to Safety of Minors and Civil Rights training.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends.
• Valid driver's license and own means of transportation with required liability insurance; these positions include driving to and from locations often bringing supplies or items or people to those locations; these positions include driving to and from locations often bringing supplies or items or people to those locations. Mileage reimbursement provided in accordance with University policy.
• Must have the ability to lift, carry, pull, and push 20 pounds.
• Must be able to stand for 90 minutes at a time or sit for 90 minutes at a time. Some days will require hours of standing or sitting.
• Must complete University of Minnesota payroll paperwork, including an in-person I-9 (identification verification process), and have a successful completion of a background check + MVR (Motor Vehicle Record), before the first day of work.
• This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship.

About the Department

About 4-H Youth Development and Extension

Extension has a long history of youth development leadership. Were best known for running Minnesota 4-H for more than 100 years. The 4-H program also serves as our laboratory of learning, in which we are constantly improving. Our mission is to improve the lives of all Minnesota young people - no matter where they live or which youth program they choose to join. Visit our websites to learn more about the Department of Youth Development and/or the 4-H program.

University of Minnesota Extension is a major outreach arm of the University of Minnesota with a mission to serve the public through applied research and education. Our mission is to make a difference by connecting community needs and University resources to address critical issues in Minnesota. Extension strives to attract and retain high-quality, passionate employees. Find further information on the Extension website.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: Depending on education, qualifications, experience, and position type:

• County 4-H Summer Intern, $15.25-$16.18/hr
• State Program 4-H Summer Intern, $15.25-$16.18/hr

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

How To Apply

Application Requirement Steps:

• Complete online application by clicking the Apply button; instructions for using the application system can be found here.

• Upload resume in the online application. Resume must include education, experience, and skills outlined in the Required Qualifications, along with relevant dates.

• Submit your online application

• Complete job screening questionnaire to determine location, position, and availability requirements (https://z.umn.edu/4-Hinternlocation). Failure to complete this survey at application will result in the applicant being removed from consideration for these positions.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please email employ@umn.edu or call 612-624-UOHR (8647).

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.