Small Business Engagement Specialist; Western PA Region

Small Business Engagement Specialist (Western PA Region)

Penn State University is seeking a dynamic and motivated Small Business Engagement Specialist to support the implementation of the RISE PA energy efficiency projects across Pennsylvania. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about sustainability, energy efficiency, and economic development—particularly within the manufacturing sector and small to mid‑sized enterprises (SMEs).

• Actively engage with potential, current, and past clients to assess energy efficiency project outcomes.
• Assist clients with implementation grant applications and guide them through the RISE PA application process.
• Provide technical consultation to prospective customers, maintaining up‑to‑date knowledge of program requirements and energy efficiency technologies.
• Monitor and support progress toward client milestones, ensuring clients stay on track with project timelines and deliverables.
• Conduct post‑project evaluations to measure energy savings and verify performance outcomes.
• Collect and analyze data to ensure projects meet expected efficiency benchmarks.
• Communicate findings to clients and stakeholders to support continuous improvement and program transparency.
• Develop and execute outreach strategies to increase SME participation in RISE PA programs.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with economic development partners, industry organizations, utilities, trades, and other stakeholders.
• Serve as a liaison between PennTAP and external partners to foster collaboration and program alignment.
• Coordinate with internal teams, including RISE PA Program Leadership and PennTAP Leadership, to track and report program participation metrics.
• Ensure client project milestones are met and provide comprehensive reporting to the larger team.

• Bachelor’s Degree and 3+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Master’s Degree and 6+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong understanding of energy efficiency programs and grant processes.
• Excellent communication, relationship‑building, and project coordination skills.
• Ability to analyze data, track metrics, and report on program outcomes.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a motor vehicle as part of job duties.

Salary range: $68,200.00 – $.

Penn State offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, retirement plans, paid time off, and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members.

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.