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• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

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POSITION SPECIFICS​

Penn State Extension is seeking a strategic, relationship-driven leader to serve as the Associate Director of Community Relations. This position provides leadership for Penn State Extension's statewide community, legislative, and industry engagement efforts and plays a critical role in strengthening Extension's visibility, credibility, partnerships, and public value across Pennsylvania.

Reporting to the Associate Dean and Director of Penn State Extension, the Associate Director of Community Relations oversees a team of Client Relationship Managers and develops strategies that foster meaningful relationships with county and state government officials, industry leaders, community organizations, advocates, and other stakeholders. This position serves as a key advisor to Extension leadership on engagement strategies and opportunities that advance Extension's mission, funding priorities, and long-term impact.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Community and Government Relations:

• Develop and implement a statewide strategy for county-level relationship management and engagement with county commissioners, administrators, and local decision-makers.

• Guide Extension leadership and staff on effective relationship-building and communication with elected officials and community stakeholders.

• Coordinate strategies to support county budget requests, including development of impact reports, presentations, and messaging materials.

• Monitor trends in county government, funding structures, and public policy that may impact Extension operations.

• Partner with Penn State Government and Community Relations and College leadership to coordinate legislative education and awareness efforts.

Community Engagement and Partnership Development:

• Develop and strengthen relationships with community organizations, industry leaders, government agencies, and other key stakeholders.

• Identify opportunities to leverage Extension programs, expertise, and resources to address community and workforce development needs.

• Expand partnerships that support program growth, sponsorship opportunities, workforce development initiatives