Part Time - Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR)

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); Hybrid; USD 34,000 - 55,000; Part time

Job summary

A major research university in Pennsylvania is seeking Entrepreneurs-in-Residence to join the Startup Leadership Network. These part-time roles focus on supporting various university startups by providing expertise in business strategy, marketing, and operational issues. Candidates should have leadership experience in technology and excellent communication skills. The work is flexible and may be done remotely with occasional in-person sessions at the university.

Qualifications

• Must be an active member of the Penn State Startup Leadership Network.
• Enthusiasm for university startup opportunities.
• Ability to work independently and in teams.

Responsibilities

• Assist startup support services team.
• Participate in industry expert roles and complete business-related tasks.
• Network with business and technology sectors.

Skills

Leadership experience in tech

Excellent communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Job description

Applications Instructions

• 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.

Job Description and Position Requirements

The Office of Entrepreneurship and Commercialization (OEC) leads Penn State's entrepreneurship and economic development programs, including management of the University's startup portfolio, development of programs for Happy Valley LaunchBox powered by PNC Bank and the LaunchBox & Innovation Hub Network, and administration of the Invent Penn State initiative. OEC works closely with the Office of Technology Management (OTM) in cultivating and supporting technology-based startups spinning out of the Penn State research ecosystem. Together OEC and OTM manage many startup support programs including the Penn State Startup Leadership Network (SLN). The SLN is comprised of experienced industry leaders that commit time and effort to support Penn State startups.

OEC is looking to hire members of the Penn State Startup Leadership Network for part‑time roles as Entrepreneurs‑in‑Residence (EIRs) to assist our startup company support services team. As experienced business people, the EIR positions will typically serve in one of two capacities. Either as the industry expert on a three‑person team participating in an 8‑week National I‑Corps program or, complete a specific business‑related task for an established or developing Penn State startup company.

With the assigned focus in mind, the EIR must be an enthusiastic supporter of new commercialization opportunities coming from various Penn State research centers. Active interaction, networking, and outreach to the business, investment/finance and technology sectors is required. This position includes supporting Penn State startups in various areas including business strategy, sales and marketing strategy, operational and growth issues, cash management, financial planning, and coordinating/facilitating specialized support services with other OEC and OTM staff. In addition, this role may participate in planning sessions to define clear and measurable objectives for each company.

The EIRs will report directly to the OEC Director, Startup Leadership Network.

Applicants must be an active member of the Penn State Startup Leadership Network to qualify for this position.

Leadership experience in a technology‑based private‑sector company is preferred. Enthusiasm for the opportunities and potential of university startups and for educated risk‑taking is a must. Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, as well as the ability to work both independently and in a team‑oriented environment, are essential. Much of the work can be conducted remotely; however, occasional in‑person work‑sessions at the Penn State University Park or other campuses may be required. These are flexible part‑time appointments based on current Penn State startup portfolio company needs and the availability of funding. It is anticipated that this position will typically require less than a 20‑hour per week commitment.

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

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.