POSITION SPECIFICSThe Penn State School of International Affairs (SIA) seeks a highly motivated Director of Career Services to lead the career services office and serve as the primary career adviser to all SIA students. SIA offers a Master of International Affairs degree, Master of Science in Global Economic and Business Relations, and various graduate certificates. The program is highly interdisciplinary with approximately 150 graduate students having earned undergraduate degrees in over 60 different majors and a curriculum and faculty that spans multiple disciplines. Career outcomes of SIA graduates are also interdisciplinary in nature with students pursuing career opportunities in a wide range of fields in both the public and private sectors.
LOCATION This position has a hybrid work modality option. The primary location for the role is State College PA, at the University Park campus and will require regular weekly work on campus, typically 3 days.
RESPONSIBILITIES Career Advising: Provide students with one-on-one career support and advising, including resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation, career exploration, and other job and/or internship searching strategies. Manage, compile, and share career and internship opportunities and resources for students.
Career Events and Programming: Plans and hosts a range of on-campus career programs and workshops that connect students with industry insights and provide professional development opportunities. Includes career talks with alumni and guest speakers, skill-building workshops, and panel discussions, as well as organizing two signature off-site career exposure events annually in Washington D.C. and New York City.
Network Building: This position works closely with current employers, alumni, alumni relations staff, and other career professionals to build networks and create opportunities for current students and graduates. Identifying and building relationships with new potential employers is also essential.
International Internship Programs: Manage portfolio of international internship programs and identify internship opportunities. Assist interested students through the education abroad process and collaborate with Penn State Global, provider organizations, and other partners.
Data Management: Monitor capstone/internships and internship papers and manage all career placement data and reporting.
QUALIFICATIONS Qualified candidates will demonstrate strength across several of the following areas:
- Significant experience in career services
- Experience providing career advising, coaching, or student support services
- Knowledge of current job market trends and emerging career pathways
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
- The ability to build and maintain relationships with employers, alumni, and partners
- Familiarity planning and delivering programs, workshops, or events
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
- Attention to detail and ability to manage data, track outcomes, and produce reports
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
- Sound judgment, professionalism, and the ability to handle sensitive information with discretion
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSIf filled as Career Services Specialist - Senior Professional, this position requires:Master's Degree6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Career Services Specialist - Principal Professional, this position requires:Master's Degree8+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
APPLICATION MATERIALS For full consideration, please provide a resume and cover letter at the time of application.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCESEmployment 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 & BENEFITSThe salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $65,508.00 - $108,444.00.
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 STATISTICSPursuant 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.
