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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, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

Nestled in the core of State College, PA, the Happy Valley LaunchBox (HVLB) emerges as a hub of entrepreneurial vibrancy within the modern confines of the Eric J. Barron Innovation Hub. HVLB seeks qualified applicants for the role of a Startup Catalyst.

The position serves as a confluence of academia, innovation, and public service, inviting a diverse community, students, and visionary leaders to catalyze economic and entrepreneurial growth at Penn State University Park Campus and the wider Happy Valley area. Rooted in the history of a land-grant institution, the commitment to societal impact is carried forward through innovative and entrepreneurial initiatives.

Since 2015, Invent Penn State has been at the forefront of entrepreneurship and innovation, providing programs, tools, and resources that fast-track great ideas to the marketplace, contributing significantly to economic development within Pennsylvania and beyond. Coordinated by the Office of Entrepreneurship and Commercialization, this endeavor reaches across the university's twenty-four campuses, incorporating all academic colleges, institutes, and centers, fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports Penn State faculty, staff, students, and local innovators.

Key Responsibilities: Members of the entrepreneurial team at Happy Valley LaunchBox play a pivotal role in nurturing future startups. The Startup Catalyst will support the delivery of entrepreneurship programs, mentorship, and will be actively involved in educational and community-building activities that advance startup success throughout the University Park campus and Happy Valley, thereby playing a key part in enhancing the entrepreneurial landscape of Happy Valley LaunchBox.

Core Responsibilities:

• Entrepreneurial Coaching: In this mentoring role, the objective is to steer new startups through the stages of testing, building, and launching their concepts into viable businesses, providing more than resources and knowledge, but a blend of coaching and mentorship to furnish entrepreneurs with essential guidance and tools for the complexities of business inception.
• Program Execution: Aid in creating and implementing a comprehensive variety of programs tailored to support startups at varying stages of development, overseeing the journey from a new idea to a fully-fledged business launch, guaranteeing extensive and ongoing support for each group.
• Culture Shaping: The main objective in building culture is fostering an active startup culture within Happy Valley. As a catalyst, engagement with entrepreneurs and the promotion of the startup ethos on campus and in the local community are fundamental duties, necessitating proactive university and community involvement.
• Academic Partnership: Engage with campus departments to conduct stimulating workshops that energize students and faculty. Contributing significantly to the ENTI (Entrepreneurship) minor and other academic initiatives, the role is crucial in awakening the entrepreneurial spirit among students, encouraging them to explore entrepreneurship as a career.
• Strategic Development: The dynamic team is committed to broadening entrepreneurship in Happy Valley and is central to advancing strategic initiatives that fortify the local entrepreneurial ecosystem with an enjoyable, startup-focused culture.
  

Skills and Experience:

• Proficiency in startup environments, with a focus on mentorship and strategic program execution.
• Entrepreneurial experience, as a founder or working closely with the founding team.
• A proponent of entrepreneurial methods, ready to engage with and implement cutting-edge ideas.
• Technological proficiency and comfortability with diverse digital platforms.
• Superior interpersonal skills, capable of creating and maintaining robust, collaborative relationships.
  

Working Environment: This full-time in-person position requires an adaptable schedule, including occasional evenings and weekends, to match the work of the startup scene.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

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.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 $56,200.00 - $81,500.00.

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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