SBDC Business Consultant Program Coordinator

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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 36 months; continuation past 36 months will be based on university need performance and/or availability of funding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Business Consultant/Program Coordinator serves as a key connector between rural residents entrepreneurs small business owners partner organizations and the resources available through the Rural Innovation Network (RIN).

This role blends business advising outreach program support and relationship-building to expand economic opportunity and improve access to services across rural communities to expand the reach and impact of RIN programs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide individualized assistance to entrepreneurs and small business owners including business planning financial projections loan packaging market analysis and operational planning.
• Conduct intake interviews assess needs and maintain consistent communication with clients.
• Assist clients in understanding capital needs and preparing business documentation.

• Support planning and delivery of RIN workshops training sessions outreach events and resource navigation across multiple rural counties.
• Maintain case files client milestones and service records in CRM systems.
• Monitor client progress and recommend next steps technical assistance or partner referrals.
  

• Build strong relationships with local stakeholders including Chambers of Commerce lenders community groups municipalities and workforce agencies.
• Participate in community events meetings and public engagement activities to increase awareness of RIN services.
• Respond to inquiries from residents or partners seeking program information or assistance.
  

• Identify new partners and strengthen existing relationships to expand access to rural economic and business resources.
• Collaborate with higher education partners extension services entrepreneurship programs and regional development organizations.
• Attend and represent RIN at multi-organization meetings focused on rural challenges and opportunities.

• Contribute to the development of workshops and training materials for rural entrepreneurs and small businesses.
• Lead or facilitate training sessions on business fundamentals financial literacy sector-specific opportunities and rural resource navigation.
• Assist in coordinating educational programming across rural counties and satellite locations.
  

• Complete required client and activity reporting in CRM systems in a timely manner.
• Document all interactions services provided referrals and outcomes.
• Participate in team meetings internal training and professional development opportunities.
  

The ideal candidate will have experience in business advising community outreach education and program coordination with an SBDC or similar economic development organization.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Masters Degree in Business Administration or related fields such as community development public administration agriculture entrepreneurship or strategic communications.
• Experience working with rural communities or rural-focused programs. Familiarity with small business support financial documentation training delivery or entrepreneurship pathways.
• Knowledge of local economic drivers such as agriculture outdoor recreation or small manufacturing.
• Experience in business advising community outreach education and program coordination with an SBDC.

Required Skills:

• Strong communication interviewing and active listening skills.
• Ability to analyze business challenges and recommend actionable solutions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office cloud-based applications CRM systems and virtual meeting tools.
• Strong problemsolving capabilities and sound professional judgment.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple client relationships or community partnerships.

Other Requirements:

• Ability to travel across rural communities and partner locations.
• Valid drivers license.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings or weekends for workshops and community events.

Application Instructions: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter addressed to Tim Keohane Director of the SBDC and a resume/CV.

About the Small Business Development Center

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of small businesses in our communities. Join us in fulfilling the mission and performance goals of the SBDC making a positive impact on small businesses and contributing to the entrepreneurial ecosystem. We offer a dynamic work environment professional development opportunities and a chance to be part of Invent Penn States initiative.

MINIMUM EDUCATION WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Industry Relations Coordinator - Intermediate Professional this position requires: Bachelors Degree 1 years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None If filled as Industry Relations Coordinator - Advanced Professional this position requires: Bachelors Degree 3 years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid drivers license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

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 $65508.00 - $108444.00.

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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