New

Project Director, Education Program Specialist

The Pennsylvania State University
paid time off, sick time, remote work
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
Jun 12, 2026
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants. Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants. This position is funded for 6 months; continuation past 6 months will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding. POSITION SPECIFICS The COPA-STEP PA Legislative Science & Technology (S&T) Fellowship project seeks a dynamic and entrepreneurial Project Director to lead and grow a nationally distinctive program that places science and technology experts within the Pennsylvania legislature. This position provides strategic leadership for the Fellowship, working closely with the advisory board and project leadership to guide program direction and long-term sustainability. The Director engages with legislators, legislative staff, advisory bodies, and commissions; represents the Fellowship to external stakeholders; leads fundraising efforts; manages relationships with host agencies; and oversees the recruitment, placement, mentoring, and professional development of fellows and trainees. The position also oversees project budgets, reporting, evaluation, and coordination with internal and external partners to ensure successful delivery and continued growth of the program. Key Responsibilities Fundraising Secure and steward funding from foundations, individuals, alumni, donor-advised funds, and government sources. Develop and execute fundraising strategies; represent the program to funders (some travel required). Stakeholder Engagement Lead and coordinate engagement with legislative offices, advisory bodies, internal partners, and alumni. Recruit and maintain host office relationships. Prepare and deliver proposals, presentations, and reports. Program Leadership Design and deliver orientation, training, and professional development for fellows and trainees. Facilitate workshops and mentoring on S&T policy, legislative processes, science communication, and related topics. Develop additional educational offerings aligned with program goals. Communication & Outreach Oversee program communications across web, events, and publications. Use evaluation data to inform reporting and outreach. Represent the program at conferences and meetings. Project Management & Evaluation Manage budgets, timelines, deliverables, and reporting. Monitor progress and lead evaluation to support continuous improvement. Recruitment & Onboarding Recruit, select, and onboard fellows and trainees in collaboration with leadership and host offices. MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS If filled as Education Program Specialist - Senior Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None If filled as Education Program Specialist - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None The initial employment length is for six months with the possibility of renewal based on successful performance and availability of funding. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree in STEM-related field Experience in science and technology policy and/or directing or managing a science and technology policy program Demonstrated success in fundraising Experience in communication and outreach Experience working with legislative bodies or public policy institutions Strong leadership, organizational, and relationship-building skills BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $56,200.00 - $89,600.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here. EEO IS THE LAW 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 are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission. 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