Director of Career Services, Penn State School of International Affairs

Director Of Career Services

The Penn State School of International Affairs (SIA) seeks a highly motivated Director of Career Services to serve as the primary career adviser to all SIA students. SIA offers a Master of International Affairs degree, Master of Science in Global Economic and Business Relations, and various graduate certificates. The program is highly interdisciplinary with approximately 150 graduate students having earned undergraduate degrees in over 60 different majors and a curriculum and faculty that spans multiple disciplines. Career outcomes of SIA graduates are also interdisciplinary in nature with students pursuing career opportunities in a wide range of fields.

We invite candidates who are passionate about empowering graduate students and shaping impactful career pathways to apply and join our collaborative academic community.

This position has a hybrid work modality option. The primary location for the role is State College PA, at the University Park campus and will require regular weekly work on campus, typically 3 days.

Responsibilities include:

• Career Advising: Provide students with one-on-one career support and advising, including resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation, career exploration, and other job and/or internship searching strategies. Manage, compile, and share career and internship opportunities and resources for students.
• Career Events and Programming: Plans and hosts a range of on-campus career programs and workshops that connect students with industry insights and professional development opportunities. Includes career talks with alumni and guest speakers, skill-building workshops, and panel discussions, as well as organizing two signature off-site career exposure events annually in Washington D.C. and New York City.
• Network Building: This position works closely with current employers, alumni, alumni relations staff, and other career professionals to build networks and create opportunities for current students and graduates.
• International Internship Programs: Manage portfolio of international internship programs and identify internship opportunities. Assist interested students through the education abroad process and collaborate with Penn State Global, provider organizations, and other partners.
• Data Management: Monitor capstone/internships and internship papers and manage all career placement data and reporting.

Qualified candidates will demonstrate strength across several of the following areas:

• Experience in career services or a related field, or a demonstrated interest in developing as a career services professional
• Experience providing career advising, coaching, or student support services
• Knowledge of current job market trends and emerging career pathways
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• The ability to build and maintain relationships with employers, alumni, and partners
• Familiarity planning and delivering programs, workshops, or events
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Attention to detail and ability to manage data, track outcomes, and produce reports
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Sound judgment, professionalism, and the ability to handle sensitive information with discretion

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications:

If filled as Career Services Specialist - Senior Professional, this position requires: Master's Degree, 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None.

If filled as Career Services Specialist - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree, 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None.

Application Materials: We welcome those eager to grow in the field of career services and develop their expertise in supporting students' career and professional development to apply. For full consideration, please provide a resume and cover letter at the time of application.