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Special Project Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Special Projects Coordinator provides essential support for the successful execution of unique ... This individual works closely with student health educator and associate director and student ...

Special Project Ambassadors are often like the local caretakers in the public spaces they serve because they: * Professionally represent not only us, but our customers, and they realize we're highly ...

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

The Department of Educational Psychology, Counseling, and Special Education (EPCSE) in the College of Education is seeking individuals to fill vital Project Associate roles within the department for ...

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

The Department of Educational Psychology, Counseling, and Special Education (EPCSE) in the College of Education is seeking individuals to fill vital Project Associate roles within the department for ...

$19/hr

Our associates have a lot in common. They have great interpersonal skills, enjoy working ... Reporting to the Market Sales Manager, the Special Project Reserve Merchandiser position is ...

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Special Project Associate information

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$14

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$51

How much do special project associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for special project associate in the United States is $30.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a special project associate?

A Special Project Associate is a professional who is responsible for supporting and managing specific projects within an organization, often working across departments or teams. Their duties can include research, project coordination, data analysis, preparing reports, and ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget. They often assist project managers and senior staff, bringing flexibility and specialized skills to unique or high-priority initiatives. This role requires strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a special project associate?

To thrive as a Special Project Associate, you need strong project management, analytical, and organizational skills, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in business, management, or a related field. Familiarity with project management software (like Asana or Microsoft Project), data analysis tools, and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite are typically required. Exceptional communication, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities help individuals excel in cross-functional teams and dynamic project environments. These competencies are crucial for ensuring projects are executed efficiently, on time, and to organizational standards.

What are some common challenges faced by special project associates, and how can they be addressed?

Special Project Associates often manage multiple projects with tight deadlines and shifting priorities, which can be challenging. Balancing the expectations of various stakeholders while ensuring project milestones are met requires strong organizational and communication skills. To address these challenges, it's helpful to maintain clear and frequent communication with team members, set realistic timelines, and utilize project management tools to track progress. Being proactive in identifying potential roadblocks and seeking feedback early can also contribute to smoother project execution.

What is the difference between Special Project Associate vs Project Coordinator?

AspectSpecial Project AssociateProject Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, relevant certifications often preferredBachelor's degree, project management certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentTypically in corporate, nonprofit, or government sectors, supporting specific projectsIn various industries, managing project timelines and team coordination
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries for specialized project supportCommon in construction, IT, healthcare, and business sectors

The Special Project Associate and Project Coordinator roles both support project execution, but the Associate often handles more specialized tasks and research, while the Coordinator manages overall project timelines and team communication. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are used across many industries, making them closely related but distinct in scope and responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for Special Project Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Special Project Associate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Special Project jobs?

The most popular types of Special Project jobs are:

What states have the most Special Project Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Special Project Associate jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Special Project Associate jobs?

For Special Project Associate jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Special Project Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,044 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Special Project Coordinator

University Park, PA • On-site

Penn State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees

Part-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • 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.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Summary:
The Special Projects Coordinator provides essential support for the successful execution of unique and strategic initiatives within the community health department. This individual works closely with student health educator and associate director and student affairs committee members to ensure projects stay on track, maintain efficient workflows, and achieve their intended outcomes.
Core Responsibilities:
  • Administrative Support: Schedule meetings, manage calendars, prepare presentations and reports, coordinate travel arrangements, and other logistical tasks as needed.
  • Resource Coordination: Assist in the procurement of resources (materials, technology, external vendors) needed for project success.
  • Communication & Documentation: Maintain clear project documentation, including meeting minutes, action items, and project status updates. Act as a communication liaison between project team members and stakeholders.
  • Data Tracking & Analysis: Collect, organize, and analyze project-related data. Assist in the preparation of progress reports for management.
  • Process Improvement: Identify and recommend opportunities to streamline project workflows and enhance communication channels.

Qualifications:
  • Education/Experience: minimum an Associate degree in business, communications, or a related field. Two years of experience in an administrative or project support role preferred.
  • Organizational Skills: Exceptional attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
  • Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to interact professionally with stakeholders at all levels.
  • Technology Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with project management tools a plus.
  • Adaptability: Comfortable working in a dynamic environment where priorities may shift.

Additional Desired Skills:
  • Event planning experience
  • Research skills

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
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.
The Pennsylvania State University 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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