Small Business Engagement Specialist (Eastern PA Region)

The Pennsylvania State University • University Park, FL

26d

About The Position

PennTAP is seeking a dynamic and motivated Small Business Engagement Specialist to support implementation of RISE PA energy efficiency initiatives across Pennsylvania. The role advances PennTAP’s mission by building relationships with businesses and stakeholders, providing technical guidance, coordinating projects, and tracking program outcomes to support successful implementation and measurable impact. The position may operate from University Park or any of the listed Penn State campuses in the Eastern PA region. The position is funded for one year; continuation beyond that period depends on university need, performance, and/or funding availability.

Requirements

• Proficiency with MS Office applications, especially Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Experience engaging and supporting clients throughout project lifecycles.
• Ability to build relationships with businesses, industry partners, and stakeholders.
• Experience managing timelines, milestones, deliverables, and multiple concurrent projects.
• Ability to collect, analyze, track, and report program and project outcomes.
• Independent thinking and ability to provide guidance, explain technical information, and communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
• For the Business Development Relationship Adviser - Advanced Professional classification: a bachelor’s degree and at least 3 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• For the Business Development Relationship Adviser - Senior Professional classification: a master’s degree and at least 6 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check.
• Successful completion of required background checks.
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.; Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment visa.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of energy-saving technologies, sustainability programs, or environmental initiatives.
• CEM certification.
• Familiarity with manufacturing operations, processes, or industrial customers.
• Experience assisting organizations with grant applications or funding programs.
• Background working with SMEs, economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, or regional partnerships.
• Education or experience in engineering, energy management, environmental science, sustainability, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Engage prospective, current, and former clients to assess energy efficiency project opportunities and outcomes.
• Assist clients with grant applications and guide them through the RISE PA application and participation process.
• Provide technical consultation and support using program tools, calculators, and resources, and maintain current knowledge of program requirements and energy efficiency technologies.
• Monitor client progress toward project milestones and ensure adherence to timelines, deliverables, and program expectations.
• Conduct post-project evaluations to measure energy savings and verify project performance.
• Collect, analyze, and maintain project data to assess whether initiatives meet anticipated efficiency benchmarks.
• Communicate findings and results to clients and stakeholders to support continuous improvement and program transparency.
• Develop tools and resources to improve client project management and PennTAP data collection and reporting.
• Develop and implement outreach strategies to increase SME awareness of and participation in RISE PA programs.
• Build and maintain relationships with economic development organizations, industry associations, utilities, contractors, trade organizations, and other stakeholders.
• Serve as a liaison between PennTAP and external partners to foster collaboration, alignment, and program success.
• Collaborate with RISE PA Program Leadership, PennTAP Leadership, Regional Advisors, and other internal stakeholders to support program delivery.
• Track, analyze, and report participation metrics and performance indicators against strategic goals.
• Monitor project milestones and prepare reports for leadership and program teams.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation to support compliance, evaluation, and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement plans.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• A 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

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