Marketing and Communications Specialist - Ben Franklin Technology Partners

benfranklintechnologypartnersofcentralandnorthernpa; State College (Centre County); Hybrid; USD 51,000 - 89,600; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members

Health, dental, and vision coverage

Robust retirement plans

Job summary

Ben Franklin Technology Partners is seeking a Marketing and Communications Specialist to enhance its brand and support communication initiatives. This role is pivotal for managing media relations, creating engaging content, and developing marketing strategies across various platforms.

The position requires a bachelor's degree with significant experience. The role supports the organization’s efforts in promoting tech-based companies across Pennsylvania.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required, preferably in a relevant field.
• 6+ years of experience in marketing and communications for senior role.
• 3+ years of experience for advanced professional role.

Responsibilities

• Develop marketing/branding strategies.
• Produce program overview materials.
• Manage media relations and social media presence.
• Create content for various formats.
• Support marketing initiatives and events.

Skills

Outstanding writing and communication skills

Experience in Adobe Photoshop

Experience with email marketing systems

Project management skills

Basic knowledge of economic development and tech startups

Education

Bachelor's Degree with 6+ years of relevant experience

Bachelor's Degree with 3+ years of relevant experience

Tools

Salesforce

WordPress

Job description

Marketing and Communications Specialist

Ben Franklin Technology Partners

Remote Type: Hybrid

Locations: Penn State University Park, Penn State Erie, The Behrend College, Penn State Harrisburg

Time Type: Full time

Posted On: 04/07/2026

Job Requisition Id: REQ_0000076728

Application Instructions:

• Current Penn State employee: 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): login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• External applicant: 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.

This position is funded for 1 year. Continuation past 1 year will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Position Specifics:

A long-standing partnership between the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and Penn State University, Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central and Northern PA (BFTP/CNP) is the largest early-stage investor and supporter of tech-based companies across the program’s 32‑county footprint. Headquartered in State College, the program has satellite offices in Erie, Harrisburg, and Johnstown. Ben Franklin’s high‑risk, early‑stage investments, along with robust business support services, TechCelerator startup boot camps, and BIG IDEA contests, help emerging entrepreneurs and small manufacturers launch new companies, grow existing businesses, and create high‑paying jobs.

We are seeking a Marketing and Communications Specialist, who can advance the brand BFTP/CNP.

Role:

This position provides marketing and communications support for the traditional Ben Franklin investment program and the other training/promotional initiatives related to the Center in the 32‑county footprint. The individual in this role will enhance support networks through ongoing communication of the organization’s accomplishments by marketing existing clients, and building awareness among prospective new clients. They will establish and strengthen relationships among business, community, government leaders, and the media.

Responsibilities:

• Develop marketing/branding/messaging strategies.
• Produce Ben Franklin annual program overview.
• Manage media relations.
• Manage website/social media.
• Participate in statewide marketing efforts and support statewide legislative advocacy.
• Manage PR and check presentation events.
• Create video, audio, and written content.
• Assist clients with marketing needs.
• Administer email marketing system and implement best practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

The person in this position must be a self‑starter with hands‑on experience with making media buys, the ability to identify local press (TV, radio, bloggers, and newspapers) in the 32‑county footprint, and experience pitching stories/events to local media outlets. Other qualifications include the following:

• Outstanding writing and communication skills.
• Experience in Adobe Photoshop.
• Experience with an email marketing system, Salesforce, and WordPress websites.
• Ability to organize multiple projects and processes simultaneously. Strong project management skills are a must.
• Ability to work effectively with multiple constituents.
• Basic knowledge of economic development and tech startups is a plus.

This position will require occasional travel within Pennsylvania.

Application:

Please submit a cover letter and resume for full consideration.

Work Arrangement: BFTP is supportive of flexible work arrangements if it aligns with the business needs. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

Marketing and Communications Specialist – Senior Professional: Bachelor's Degree with 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None.

Marketing and Communications Specialist – Advanced Professional: Bachelor's Degree with 3+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None.

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $51,000.00 – $89,600.00.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

Campus Security Crime Statistics

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

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.

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