Director of Continuing Education and Workforce Development

Penn State University • Upper Saucon, PA

9d

About The Position

Penn State Lehigh Valley invites applications for the position of Director of Continuing Education and Workforce Development. This leadership role is responsible for coordinating the development and delivery of in-person continuing education and workforce programs serving the Lehigh Valley region, while also collaborating with Penn State’s Commonwealth campuses to promote shared initiatives. Reporting directly to the Chancellor and serving as a member of the Chancellor’s Cabinet, the Director supervises a dedicated team, including Coordinator of the Practical Nursing program, Education program Specialist, and a pool of Adjunct Instructors.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience in the design and development of education and training programs.
• Significant, proven ability to develop and manage collaborative economic development programs.
• Strong management skills and a demonstrated commitment to cultural belonging.
• Effective relationship-building skills with government, industry, non-profit, and university partners.
• Availability for evening and weekend events as needed.
• Master's Degree
• 10+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
• This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Responsibilities

• Oversee a diverse portfolio of Continuing Education and Workforce Development programs, including Allied Health, Lifelong Learning, contract training, and open enrollment offerings.
• Develop comprehensive and enduring partnerships with industry, government, and non-profit organizations to expand the reach and impact of training programs.
• Provide strategic leadership and communicate a clear vision and mission to encourage creative solutions for future program growth aligned with Penn State Lehigh Valley’s mission and the unique needs of the region.
• Conduct market research to identify new opportunities and guide program development, introducing innovative models of learning and delivery through benchmarking and new technologies.
• Collaborate closely with Commonwealth Campus CE Directors, the Statewide Director, and other university stakeholders to share resources and best practices.
• Manage the implementation of a corporate strategy for contract training to drive “business-to-business” program growth.
• Develop and maintain relationships with corporate clients, internal stakeholders (including Academic Affairs, Career Development, Alumni, Development, Student Affairs, Admissions), and external community organizations, ensuring the strategic use of resources.
• Provide high-level financial and operational oversight, including budgeting, strategic revenue generation, and management of operational and instructional staff.
• Ensure compliance with Penn State policies, develop procedures for effective operations, and manage departmental budgets in collaboration with program staff and the Finance Department.
• Supervise staff, oversee HR functions (WorkLion and Workday), and support the recruitment, evaluation, and training of team members.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

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