4-H State & National Events Coordinator

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 54,060 - 78,444; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

75% tuition discount

Job summary

Penn State Extension seeks a 4-H State & National Events Coordinator to lead logistics, promotion and execution of high-level 4-H events, including state and national competitions, trips, and conferences.

The role focuses on large-scale event management, building partnerships across the state, and delivering a comprehensive youth development program with emphasis on safety, evaluation, and stakeholder reporting.

Qualifications

• Experience in program development, event logistics and evaluation.
• Strong communication with youth, parents and public.
• Ability to carry equipment and materials.
• Willingness to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Plan, manage and coordinate all state and national events, including venue selection, scheduling, registration and on-site execution.
• Recruit, screen and train volunteers as staff and judges; work with committees to create the schedule.
• Create and distribute marketing materials to promote events and recruit youth and volunteers.
• Manage registration, supervision and transportation for participants across the state or out of state.
• Manage event budgets, enrollment fees, and ensure compliance with university policies.
• Implement program evaluation and prepare reports for stakeholders.
• Ensure safety of youth and attendees in collaboration with leadership teams.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors.

Skills

Program development

Event logistics

Evaluation

Communication

Mobility / Equipment handling

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Job Overview

Penn State Extension seeks an innovative, energetic professional for a 4-H State & National Events Coordinator with a passion for positive youth development to lead the logistics, promotion, and execution of high-level 4-H events. 4-H utilizes hands‑on activities to foster critical thinking, leadership development, and community engagement. The individual in this position serves as a representative of The Pennsylvania State University, delivering a comprehensive 4-H Youth Development program focused on large‑scale event management, managing day‑to‑day activities for state‑level competitions, national trips, and educational conferences, while building community collaborations and partnerships to drive attendance and public awareness.

Major Responsibilities

• Plan, manage, and coordinate all aspects of state and national events, including venue selection, scheduling, participant registration, and on‑site execution for judging and knowledge contests, member/volunteer recognition events, and leadership forums.
• Recruit, screen, and train adult volunteers to serve as event staff and judges, and work with Program Development Committees to create the event schedule.
• Create and distribute marketing materials, including newsletters and social media content, to promote 4‑H events and recruit youth and volunteer audiences.
• Manage registration, supervision, and transportation for participants in 4‑H youth events held across the state or out of state.
• Manage budgets for specific events, handle enrollment fees, and ensure all activities follow university policy and procedural expectations.
• Implement program evaluation and documentation to measure event effectiveness and prepare reports for stakeholders.
• Work with the 4‑H Leadership team and event leads to ensure physical and emotional safety for youth and adult attendees at events.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned by the Assistant Director of Programs and Area 4‑H Educator.

Required Qualifications

• Skills in program development, event logistics and management, and evaluation.
• Positive human relations and effective communication skills necessary to work with youth, parents, and the public.
• Ability to carry equipment, educational materials, and supplies, with or without accommodation.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed for events.

Preferred Qualifications

• A degree in youth development, agriculture, communication, education, or a related field.
• Previous experience with 4‑H programming or large‑scale event coordination.
• Volunteer management experience.

Salary & Benefits

Salary range: $54,060.00 – $78,444.00. Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, robust retirement plans, substantial paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick time), and a generous 75% tuition discount available to employees, eligible spouses, and children.

EEO Statement

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.