POSITION SPECIFICSThe College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST) is seeking a collaborative and forward-thinking leader to help shape the next chapter of the Nittany AI Alliance (NAIA). This position offers a unique opportunity to reimagine and strengthen experiential learning programs that bring together students, faculty, and external partners to explore responsible, inclusive, and meaningful applications of artificial intelligence.
The successful candidate will lead a talented team in advancing Nittany AI Inspire, the annual Nittany AI Challenge, classroom-connected AI experiences, and a new faculty affiliates program. Working across Penn State and with industry, nonprofit, government, alumni, and community partners, this individual will translate innovative ideas into sustainable programs and expand opportunities for students from diverse disciplines to apply AI to real-world challenges.
Primary Responsibilities
- Lead the day-to-day operations of the Nittany AI Alliance by supervising staff, setting priorities, assigning and reviewing work, providing coaching and feedback, supporting employee development, and building a high-performing, accountable team culture.
- Guide the continued growth and evolution of NAIA by developing operational strategies, implementing new initiatives, and supporting the transition from externally focused projects to integrated classroom experiential learning.
- Lead and enhance key NAIA initiatives, including Nittany AI Inspire, the annual Nittany AI Challenge, and other experiential learning opportunities that engage students across disciplines.
- Establish learning outcomes and assessment methods; analyze participation and program data to recommend improvements.
- Develop and manage a faculty affiliates program that connects faculty expertise with student mentoring, workshops, classroom projects, and other experiential learning activities.
- Support faculty grant submissions related to AI research, outreach, and education.
- Establish consistent processes for project selection, program planning, budgeting, communication, assessment, and reporting.
- Coordinate with faculty, facilitators, technical experts, mentors, judges, and partners who support program delivery and student teams.
- Build relationships with academic units, other colleges, Commonwealth Campuses, and industry, nonprofit, government, alumni, and community partners to identify programming needs, expand participation, and develop appropriately scoped educational experiences.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSBachelor's Degree6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
Required Skills
- Experience developing, managing, delivering, or evaluating educational, professional development, outreach, or co-curricular programs.
- Experience working in higher education or collaborating with faculty, students, academic programs, or educational organizations.
- Experience supervising employees or leading teams, including assigning work, setting priorities, and providing feedback.
- Strong program management, organizational, facilitation, and communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to build relationships with internal and external partners.
- Ability to collect and analyze program data and use findings to guide program improvement.
- Working knowledge of artificial intelligence and its applications, limitations, and responsible-use considerations.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with experiential learning, internships, capstones, innovation competitions, or project-based learning.
- Experience leading program development, organizational change, or the implementation of new processes.
- Master's degree in a related field.
- Teaching experience.
Because this role works closely with students, faculty, and college/university partners, it includes regular on-campus engagement during the semester (typically 3-4 days each week) and occasional evening and weekend hours. When evening or weekend hours are required, time can be flexed. Questions related to the schedule can be directed to the hiring manager.
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 - $94,980.00.
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.
