Edtech.com's Summary

The Pennsylvania State University is hiring an Education Program Specialist to lead the design, delivery, and evaluation of non-credit educational programs focused on reliable energy siting and planning as part of the Pennsylvania R-STEP Collaborative. The role involves statewide outreach and technical assistance to local officials and community members, especially in rural and disadvantaged areas, and requires translating complex energy and policy concepts into accessible educational resources and workshops.

Highlights

Develop and deliver workshops, webinars, and technical assistance for municipal officials and community stakeholders.
Translate complex reliable energy, policy, and land-use concepts into clear, fact-based resources.
Lead outreach efforts to increase awareness and participation throughout Pennsylvania communities.
Conduct applied research and needs assessments to improve program effectiveness.
Evaluate program performance, track participation, and prepare reports to support continuous improvement.
Support the R-STEP Resource Hub and statewide educational resource development.
Build partnerships with academic units, government agencies, industry partners, and community organizations.
Assist with grant administration, including reporting and documentation.
Supervise and mentor staff or students involved in program operations.
Requires a Bachelor's degree and 3+ years of relevant experience; a Master's degree and experience in energy project siting or municipal planning preferred.
Strong written and oral communication skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Salary range: $56,200 - $81,500 with a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement plans, paid time off, and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members.

Education Program Specialist Full Description

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, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Penn State Center for Energy Law and Policy (CELP) is seeking an experienced Education Program Specialist - Advanced Professional to lead the design, delivery, and evaluation of non-credit educational programs supporting reliable energy siting and planning as part of the Pennsylvania R‑STEP Collaborative. This role focuses on statewide outreach and technical assistance to local officials and community members, particularly in rural and disadvantaged communities, to strengthen decision-making around large-scale energy projects including solar, wind, and energy storage.

The position will collaborate with the PI housed in Penn State Extension and partners at EMS/CELP, translating complex technical and policy concepts into accessible, research-based resources, and delivering workshops, webinars, and community engagement sessions.

Key Responsibilities:

Develop and deliver non-credit educational programs, including workshops, webinars, and technical assistance activities for municipal officials and community stakeholders.
Translate complex reliable energy, policy, and land-use concepts into accessible, fact-based resources.
Lead outreach efforts to expand awareness and participation across Pennsylvania communities.
Conduct applied research and needs assessments to inform program improvements and best practices.
Evaluate program effectiveness, track participation, and prepare reports to support continuous improvement.
Support the development and maintenance of the R‑STEP Resource Hub and other statewide educational resources.
Build and sustain partnerships with academic units, government agencies, industry partners, and community organizations.
Assist with grant-related administrative tasks, including reporting and documentation.
Supervise and mentor staff or students supporting program operations, as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSBachelor's Degree3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience

acceptedRequired Certifications:None

Preferred Qualifications:

Master's degree in relevant field.
Experience with energy project siting, municipal planning, or local government support.
Knowledge of applied research methods, evaluation, or survey design.
Experience supervising staff or coordinating project teams.
Demonstrated experience in program development, educational outreach, or community engagement.
Experience designing and delivering educational materials or workshops to diverse audiences.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively with stakeholders across multiple organizations.

Application Instructions:

To apply, please submit a resume/CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications for this role.

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 - $81,500.00.

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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Original Job Description