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- CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, pleaselogin 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 .
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see .
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:
Rural Business and Community Support- 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.
Coordination of Rural Innovation Network Services- 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.
Rural Outreach and Engagement- 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.
Partnership Development and Regional Collaboration- 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.
Training, Workshops and Educational Programming- 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.
Administrative and Reporting Responsibilities- 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:
- Master’s 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 problem‑solving 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 driver’s 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.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Industry Relations Coordinator - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's 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:
Bachelor's 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 driver’s 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 $61,800.00 - $102,300.00.
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.
