Career Services Specialist

Penn State University • University Park, PA

3d • $54,060 - $78,444 • Hybrid

About The Position

The College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST) is seeking a Career Services Specialist- Advanced to support the career development needs of our graduate students and international student population. This role will design and deliver career programming focused on graduate-level career exploration, professional skill-building, and successful career transitions, with particular attention to the unique needs of international students navigating the U.S. job market. The Career Services Specialist collaborates closely with students, employers, faculty, and Penn State Global staff to connect graduate and international students with meaningful career opportunities, while helping employers understand the value of hiring from this talent pool. This role also will also have the flexibility to support undergraduate students during peak seasons and as needed within the college.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree
• 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), and F 1 and J 1 visa considerations is beneficial
• Candidates who are eager to learn and support the unique career needs of graduate and international students are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and lead workshops and programs addressing career exploration, resume and CV writing, job searching strategies, professional networking, and interview skills, tailored to the needs of graduate and international students
• Provide individualized career coaching to graduate students, helping them assess career goals, skills, interests, and qualifications and translate these into actionable career plans
• Partner with Penn State Global to build a strong working understanding of Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), and other work authorization pathways, and guide international students through these processes
• Identify, cultivate, and maintain relationships with employers interested in hiring graduate students and international students, including companies with experience sponsoring visas or supporting CPT/OPT
• Engage and collaborate on employer outreach strategies specifically aimed at expanding job and internship opportunities for graduate and international student populations
• Collaborate with academic departments, faculty, and other University offices to integrate career development into the graduate student experience
• Plan and support career fairs, networking events, and employer connection opportunities
• Maintain accurate documentation of student interactions, progress, and outcomes while ensuring confidentiality
• Collect and analyze data on program effectiveness, student outcomes, and employer engagement to inform continuous improvement
• Develop communication strategies to promote engagement with Career Services among graduate and international students
• May assist with undergraduate student support and programming as needed
• Manage and instruct the IST 495 course for World Campus learners

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Robust retirement plans
• Substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time
• Generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level