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(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.This is a/an 75 % full-time equivalency (FTE) job. This position will work 30 hours per week. This position is eligible for benefits associated with any full-time position. The salary grade and range listed in the posting is reflective of a 100% Full-time position. Full-time equivalency job offers may fall outside of the listed range due to the assigned percentage of effort.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Telehealth (SAFE-T) System at Penn State is seeking a Strategic Projects & Business Development Specialist to support our internal operations and external growth initiatives.
Established in 2016, SAFE-T System (safe-tsystem.com) connects rural and underserved communities to expert Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) for live telehealth support during forensic examinations, with over 500 exams completed and continued regional and national expansion underway.
The Strategic Projects & Business Development Specialist plays a critical role in scaling our impact by identifying and cultivating partnerships with hospitals and clinics in need of forensic telehealth solutions, while also managing key strategic projects that enhance our technology platform and service delivery.
This position will work closely with the Director and Assistant Director to drive growth, operational excellence, and strategic initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
Business Development & Partnership Growth
Identify and research potential hospital and clinic partners who could benefit from SAFE-T's forensic telehealth services
Conduct outreach to healthcare administrators, emergency department directors, and nursing leadership to introduce SAFE-T services
Build and maintain relationships with prospective partners through regular communication, presentations, and consultations
Develop compelling proposals and presentations that articulate the value proposition of SAFE-T services
Collaborate with clinical and technical teams to customize solutions for prospective partners' specific needs
Track and manage partnership pipeline using CRM tools, maintaining detailed records of all interactions and opportunities
Strategic Project Coordination
Support the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of project management systems for SAFE-T System
Coordinate cross-functional projects involving research, clinical operations, IT, and external partners
Work closely with the Director and Assistant Director on strategic initiatives aimed at scaling SAFE-T's technology and service impact
Maintain project tracking systems, ensuring timelines, deliverables, and milestones are clearly documented and communicated
Identify and proactively address project dependencies, gaps, and potential obstacles
Other Responsibilities (include but are not limited to):
Cross-Functional Coordination & Communication
Maintain awareness of all ongoing projects and initiatives across research, clinical, IT, and business development teams
Facilitate communication between teams to ensure alignment and information sharing
Coordinate meetings, prepare agendas, and document action items and decisions
Serve as a bridge between strategic leadership and operational teams
Research, Analysis & Problem-Solving
Conduct market research to identify trends, opportunities, and competitive landscape in telehealth and forensic nursing
Research and evaluate software, technology platforms, and operational tools to support SAFE-T's growth
Analyze partnership data and metrics to inform strategic decision-making
Prepare reports, presentations, and recommendations for leadership
Hands-On Execution & Support
Step in to execute critical tasks during high-priority initiatives, transitions, or capacity constraints
Lead by example in tackling urgent assignments with flexibility and resourcefulness
Support special events, partner onboarding, and other operational needs as they arise
May supervise staff, including hiring, coaching, development, and performance management
Required Qualifications:
Demonstrated ability to build relationships, communicate value propositions, and close partnership agreements
Outstanding project coordination, process improvement, and organizational skills with high attention to detail
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to create compelling presentations and proposals
Demonstrated track record of being proactive, innovative, a self-starter, and results-oriented
Ability to work independently on complex, multi-initiative projects
Demonstrated ability to thrive in collaborative, team-oriented environments; inclusive and respectful when working with others
Ability to handle sensitive information with professionalism and confidentiality
Demonstrated adaptability in fast‑paced, evolving environments; able to shift priorities and navigate ambiguity with confidence.
Preferred Qualifications (one or more):
Familiarity with forensic nursing, sexual assault services, or trauma-informed care is strongly preferred
Degree in Business Administration, Healthcare Administration, Communications, Marketing, or related field
Proficiency with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems
Experience using project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com, Microsoft Project, or similar tool)
Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
Experience in healthcare, telehealth, or health technology sectors
Knowledge of hospital operations, emergency departments, or nursing services
Track record of successfully launching new initiatives or expanding service territories
Certifications in project management, sales, or business development
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None
The required 6+ years of relevant experience listed above must come from one or more of the following fields: business development, sales, customer relationship or account management, or partnership development.
Application Process:
Interested candidates must submit a cover letter and current resume/curriculum vitae.
Additional Information:
Location: This position is primarily remote with flexibility for hybrid work arrangements. SAFE-T System is supportive of flexible work and/or remote arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position.
Travel: Approximately 4-8 times annually for conferences, partner visits, training and education, business development, and team meetings. Trips typically last 2-5 days.
Schedule: Standard business hours with occasional evening or weekend work for special events, time-sensitive deliverables, or partner engagement activities.
Supervision: This position reports to the Director of the SAFE-T Center and works closely with the Assistant Director.
Why Join the SAFE-T Center?
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization that is transforming access to specialized forensic care for sexual assault survivors. As a member of our team, you will:
Make a tangible difference in the lives of survivors in rural and underserved communities
Work with innovative telehealth technology at the intersection of nursing, forensics, and healthcare delivery
Collaborate with passionate, dedicated professionals in a supportive and mission-aligned culture
Play a key role in scaling a nationally recognized program with significant growth potential
Benefit from the resources and reputation of Penn State while working in an entrepreneurial, fast-paced environment
Develop a range of skills spanning business development, project management, and strategic operations
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.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 $76,700.00 - $115,100.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
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.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.