Startup Specialist at Parallel18

Puerto Rico Science Technology & Research Trust • San Juan, PR

20h • Onsite

About The Position

Parallel18, a program of the Puerto Rico Science, Technology, and Research Trust, is seeking a Startup Specialist to support the development and growth of participating startups, with an emphasis on the Xpand program. This role involves working closely with founders, investors, and mentors, and assisting in communications efforts to amplify the program's impact and visibility. The ideal candidate is passionate about entrepreneurship, relationship-driven, and comfortable blending operational and communication responsibilities.

Requirements

• Passion and a positive can-do attitude.
• Strong execution skills: think big, start small, and constantly challenge the status quo.
• Fast learner, resourceful, with keen attention to detail.
• Willingness to learn and master new skill sets.
• Ability to work independently and within teams effectively.
• Understanding of Google Workforce and Microsoft Teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English and Spanish.

Nice To Haves

• Basic design and content creation skills (Canva, Google Slides, Mailchimp, etc.).
• Familiarity with social media tools and basic performance metrics (e.g., LinkedIn, Instagram, newsletters).
• Comfortable working across teams, especially bridging operational and marketing priorities.
• Previous experience in community building, storytelling, or PR.
• 1-2 years of experience in a fast-paced environment involving startups, innovation, or financial ecosystems.

Responsibilities

• Manage a group of startups, meeting bi-weekly to validate progress and challenges, and providing consistent support.
• Assist in the execution of the bootcamp and coordinate events, workshops, and conferences.
• Collaborate with the Marketing & Communications team to support storytelling, social media planning, content development, and newsletter updates.
• Draft and edit outreach materials for stakeholders, partners, and program visibility.
• Connect startups with investors, mentors, companies, and universities in collaboration with the Business Development Associate and Investments team.
• Support outreach to service providers and technology partners to secure perks and benefits for entrepreneurs.
• Facilitate technical support for participating startups.
• Manage Xpand’s internal communication platforms and tools.
• Assist in gathering success stories, testimonials, and visuals.
• Participate in local startup events, entrepreneurial outreach, and university initiatives to promote the program.
• Monitor and support the execution of communication deliverables related to events, program milestones, and founder stories.
• Assist in planning and preparing meetings, conference calls, and follow-ups with key partners and program participants.
• Support the Program Lead with calendar coordination, communications, and reporting.
• Adapt to evolving roles and responsibilities as the organization changes.

Benefits

• Equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, national origin, social status, political affiliation, religion, physical or mental disability, veteran status, perceived or real domestic violence victim status, sexual harassment victim status, stalking victim status, and/or any other basis protected by law.

What This Job Offers

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