Assistant Director for Graduate Career Services

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The Office of Professional Graduate Programs (PGP) in Penn State's Smeal College of Business is seeking a highly motivated and experienced professional for the position of Assistant Director of Graduate Career Services. This position plays a pivotal role in supporting the career development and job placement success of our students.

As a member of the Graduate Career Services Team, this position is responsible for developing and implementing career-related programs, advising students on career paths, managing employer relations, and collaborating with faculty and staff to integrate career services throughout the college experience. The assistant director will work closely with the Director of Graduate Career Services to ensure that our students are well-prepared to enter the competitive business job market.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Career Advising & Counseling: Provide one-on-one career coaching and counseling to students on topics such as resume writing, interviewing, job search strategies, and career exploration. Assist students in developing personalized career plans and setting realistic goals.

Program Development & Implementation: Design and execute career-related workshops, events, and programs including job fairs, networking events, employer information sessions, and alumni panels. Collaborate with faculty and staff to integrate career services into the student experience.

Employer Relations & Networking: Establish and maintain relationships with employers, industry professionals, and alumni to create job and internship opportunities for students. Coordinate on-campus recruitment and networking activities such as employer visits, interviews, and presentations.

Data Management & Reporting: Track and report on student employment outcomes, internship placements, and other key metrics. Utilize software to manage student and employer data effectively.

Outreach & Communications: Develop marketing materials and communication strategies to promote career services to students, employers, and the Smeal College community. Represent the graduate career services team at college events, orientations, and other student-focused activities.

Qualifications:

This position requires a bachelor's degree as well as a minimum of 3 years of experience in career services, higher education, or a related field, with a strong understanding of the business job market. Additional experience and/or education and competencies are required for higher level jobs.

Experience in program development, employer relations, and career/academic counseling/coaching preferred. Candidate should possess strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills and have a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education. Must have a proficiency in data analysis and a commitment to data-driven decision making. Knowledge in CVENT and other event planning software is preferred. Knowledge of current trends and best practices in career services and student success are key. Additional experience and/or education and competencies are required for higher level jobs.

This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines on-campus and remote work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

As a factor of this student-facing position, occasional evening and/or weekend work required. Some travel may be necessary for employer visits, conferences, and events.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is:

Salary Structure - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure.

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