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• 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

Penn State’s Office of the Senior Vice President for Research directs efforts to translate the intellectual capital of the University into the marketplace as part of the University’s economic development and land-grant missions.

Under the direction of the Director, Research Startups, we are seeking an Assistant Director , focused on providing guidance and support to existing and prospective startup companies based on Penn State University intellectual property. This position rests in the Office of Entrepreneurship and Commercialization.

This role works closely with the other members of OEC staff to provide entrepreneurship education, talent and mentor matching, and commercialization services leading to successful commercialization of university technologies.

The primary activities involve engaging and managing business advisors to help scientists progress their technology through the various stages of commercialization as part of the Startup Leadership Network (SLN).

Responsibilities:

Required Qualifications:

• Experience with technology commercialization, new venture creation, and funding.
• Excellent planning and management skills.
• Excellent collaboration, communication, and organizational skills.
Excellent finance and budgeting skills.

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Desired Qualifications:

• Advanced technical degree or MBA.
• Experience working in a university setting, preferably in a research commercialization role.
• Experience in creating startup ventures, teaching entrepreneurship, or investing in startup companies.
• Experience in launching early-stage technology start-ups.
• Experience with investor pitches and due diligence processes.

Work Arrangement: This position is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement, with three days per week based at our University Park campus office and two days working remotely. Some periodic travel within the United States will be required.

Application Instructions: Candidates must submit a cover letter and a resume/CV for consideration.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Technology Commercialization Specialist - Advanced Professional, this position requires:
Master's Degree
3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None

If filled as Technology Commercialization Specialist - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:
Master's Degree
1+ 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.

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 $72,300.00 - $122,016.00.

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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