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Project Director, Education Program Specialist


Job Location:

University Park, IL - USA

Monthly Salary: $ 56200 - 89600
Posted: 14 June 2026 (30+ days ago)
Application Deadline: 11 September 2026
Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work 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: Bachelors 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: Bachelors 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
    • Masters 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 $56200.00 - $89600.00.

    Salary Structure - Information on Penn States salary structure

    Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional 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 .

    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 universitys teaching research and service mission.

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    Required Experience:

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