Education Program Specialist

Position Overview The VectorED Network is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Education Program Specialist (Professional) to support and lead education, evaluation, and field-based initiatives related to vector-borne disease prevention, with a focus on tick management. This role plays a key part in developing, delivering, coordinating, and evaluating non-credit educational and professional development programs for external audiences, working closely with the Principal Investigator and interdisciplinary partners across public health, Extension, and vector control programs. Key Responsibilities Identify, develop, coordinate, deliver, and evaluate non-credit educational and professional development programs related to vector-borne diseases. Conduct needs assessments and market evaluation. Develop educational materials, including publications, presentations, web content, and training resources. Assist in planning and delivering a professional development webinar series, including speaker coordination, promotion, facilitation, and evaluation. Track program metrics and analyze outcomes; prepare reports and provide data-driven recommendations. Coordinate field logistics and support data collection for tick surveillance and control projects. Conduct tick sampling, ecological assessments, and habitat evaluations in public and natural spaces. Conduct small and medium mammal trapping and sampling. Coordinate and work with a field crew of 3–4 individuals. Prepare and maintain field materials and equipment; maintain accurate field notes, datasheets, and sample tracking systems. Enter and manage data within established databases; follow all safety, biosecurity, and compliance protocols. Engage with community members and the public during field activities to communicate project goals and vector-borne disease prevention strategies. Support communication and coordination with public health agencies, vector control programs, and partner organizations. Assist with scheduling meetings, documenting interactions, and sharing program resources. Support implementation of needs assessments and program evaluations, including survey development, distribution, response tracking, and summarizing results. Maintain and update the VECTOR Library database by reviewing entries, correcting links and metadata, organizing content, and adding new resources while ensuring accuracy and accessibility. Provide general support for training, outreach, and evaluation activities, including preparation of educational materials, coordination of meetings and events, data collection and entry, and development of reports and communications. Required Qualifications Experience with data collection and management. Demonstrated experience in field evaluation, including small or medium mammal handling. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to follow established protocols while working both independently and collaboratively. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Preferred Qualifications A bachelor’s degree in entomology, ecology, public health, biology, or a related field, with a master’s degree preferred. Experience with Extension or non-credit education programs. Familiarity with vector-borne disease systems such as ticks or mosquitoes. Experience with survey tools and program evaluation methods. Experience supporting webinars or professional training programs. Additional Key Information This position includes significant fieldwork, and applicants must be able to work outdoors in variable and challenging environmental conditions, including heat, rain, uneven terrain, dense vegetation, and vector-infested habitats, as well as lift and carry field equipment and travel to field sites and partner locations as needed. Minimum Education & Work Experience & Required Certifications Bachelor's Degree (no prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education). Required Certifications: None. Background Checks/Clearances Employment requires successful completion of background checks in accordance with University policies. A valid driver’s license and successful motor vehicle records check will also be required. Salary & Benefits Salary range: $49,188.00–$71,340.00. Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; robust retirement plans; paid time off (holidays, vacation, and sick time); and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees, spouses, and children. Equal Opportunity 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 View phone number on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr