Field Service Specialist

Pennsylvania Downtown Center; Harrisburg (Dauphin County); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Job summary

Pennsylvania Downtown Center is seeking a Field Services Specialist to support Main Street and Elm Street communities through outreach, education, technical assistance, and program evaluation.

This full-time role requires travel across the Commonwealth, strong communication and project management, and the ability to develop trainings and presentations for diverse communities. Remote work may be permitted with in-person staff meetings.

Qualifications

• A college degree in urban planning, community or economic development, historic preservation, public administration, or a related field is required.
• Experience delivering educational programming, training, or technical assistance is required.
• Experience in downtown revitalization or related nonprofit work is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct technical assistance, training, and ongoing support to Main Street and Elm Street communities.
• Conduct site visits, program assessments, and evaluations to support revitalization efforts.
• Develop and deliver educational presentations, workshops, and training programs.
• Assist communities in understanding DCED's Main Street Matters program.
• Prepare reports and documentation related to community programs and technical assistance.
• Maintain relationships with community partners, state agencies, and other organizations.
• Manage multiple projects and deadlines independently while collaborating with the team.

Skills

Public speaking

Project management

Strong written and verbal skills

Relationship building

Education

Bachelor's degree in urban planning or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Field Services Specialist

Pennsylvania Downtown Center | Full-Time | Pennsylvania

Company Description

Pennsylvania Downtown Center (PDC) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening Pennsylvania's downtowns, traditional business districts, and surrounding neighborhoods. Through education, technical assistance, partnerships, and community-based revitalization strategies, PDC supports local organizations working to create economically vibrant and sustainable communities.

PDC works closely with Main Street and Elm Street programs, municipalities, community organizations, and state partners to support revitalization efforts across the Commonwealth.

Role Description

Pennsylvania Downtown Center is seeking a motivated and adaptable Field Services Specialist to join our team. This full-time position plays a key role in supporting Main Street and Elm Street communities across Pennsylvania through outreach, education, technical assistance, and program evaluation.

The Field Services Specialist serves as a primary point of contact for local revitalization organizations, helping community leaders, staff, and volunteers navigate challenges, strengthen their programs, and implement effective community and economic development strategies.

This is a relationship-driven position that requires strong communication, independent project management, and a willingness to travel throughout Pennsylvania. The ideal candidate is comfortable working directly with community stakeholders, facilitating training sessions, and providing practical guidance to communities of varying sizes and needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct technical assistance, training, and ongoing support to designated and prospective Main Street and Elm Street communities.
• Conduct community site visits, program assessments, and evaluations to support local revitalization efforts.
• Work with local organizations, municipal leaders, volunteers, and community stakeholders to identify challenges and opportunities.
• Develop and deliver educational presentations, workshops, and training programs, including support for PDC's Community Revitalization Academy, Downtown 101, and annual conference.
• Assist communities in understanding and implementing the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development's (DCED) Main Street Matters program.
• Prepare reports, assessments, and documentation related to community programs and technical assistance.
• Maintain strong relationships with community partners, state agencies, and other organizations involved in revitalization efforts.
• Manage multiple projects, deadlines, and community assignments independently while collaborating with the PDC team.

Qualifications

• A college degree in urban planning, community or economic development, historic preservation, public administration, or a related field is required. An advanced degree is preferred.
• Experience delivering educational programming, training, or technical assistance is required.
• Experience in downtown revitalization, community development, Main Street or Elm Street programs, or related nonprofit and municipal work is preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and presentation experience.
• Excellent organizational, time-management, and project management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and adapt to the needs of different communities.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with local leaders, volunteers, government agencies, and community partners.
• A valid Pennsylvania driver's license and willingness to travel extensively throughout the Commonwealth.
• Spanish language proficiency is a plus.

Work Location & Travel

This is afull-time, exempt positionwith statewide travel requirements.

The Field Services Specialist is expected to spend approximately2–3 days per week (40–60% of working time)visiting and working directly with communities across Pennsylvania. Some overnight travel and occasional evening or weekend commitments may be required.

Remote work may be permitted, with travel to PDC's Harrisburg office for staff meetings, trainings, and other organizational needs as requested.

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation is dependent on qualifications and experience. PDC offers benefits including health insurance, retirement benefits, short-term disability and life insurance, paid time off, and paid holidays.

Pennsylvania Downtown Center is an equal opportunity employer.