Program Manager, EDGE (Experiential Digital Global Engagement)

Program Manager, EDGE

Penn State Global seeks a collaborative and innovative professional to serve as Program Manager, EDGE (Experiential Digital Global Engagement) within the Global Learning unit. Reporting to the Associate Director for Global Academic Engagement, this position provides advanced programmatic leadership and exercises a high level of independent judgment in shaping the direction, priorities, assessment, and long-term growth of Penn State's project-based international virtual exchange initiatives.

The EDGE Program Manager works independently and in partnership with faculty, academic units, and international institutions to guide the design, integration, and evaluation of structured, faculty-led virtual collaborations across colleges and campuses. The role emphasizes consultative leadership, subject-matter expertise, program assessment, and strategic influence rather than coordination of individual activities, supporting scalable and sustainable global learning opportunities that advance Penn State's broader global engagement and instructional goals.

This appointment is a 75% full-time equivalent (FTE), with a work schedule of 40 hours per week during the academic year (August 15 through May 15). The role does not require work during the summer period and is benefits-eligible on a prorated basis.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for the design, implementation, and growth of the EDGE program (a project-based international virtual exchange initiative aligned with Penn State's global learning priorities)
• Serve as subject matter expert in virtual exchange pedagogy
• Work closely with faculty to design and implement EDGE projects into Penn State courses
• Design and deliver training, workshops, and consultations related to project-based international virtual exchange and global learning best practices
• Build, maintain, and strengthen international institutional partnerships that support virtual exchange
• Develop and use clear assessment strategies to evaluate student learning outcomes and overall program impact
• Lead program reporting efforts by documenting outcomes, key metrics, and lessons learned for internal leadership, faculty, and external partners
• Serve as an advocate for EDGE by promoting its value, outcomes, and pedagogical approach across Penn State and with external partners to faculty participation and encourage broader adoption
• Oversee program operations, including planning, reporting, and budget coordination in collaboration with the Associate Director
• Collaborate across Penn State Global and academic units to support program quality, alignment, and long-term sustainability
• Contribute to broader global academic engagement efforts within Penn State Global, as appropriate, including participation in cross-unit initiatives, working groups, or events
• Support special projects, pilot initiatives, and related responsibilities as assigned
• Respond to evolving program and institutional needs

Required Qualifications

• Proven experience working independently and partnering with faculty on curriculum or course development
• Experience managing cross-institutional or international partnerships
• Strong project management, communication, and analytical skills, with the ability to oversee multiple initiatives simultaneously
• Demonstrated commitment to inclusive and equitable approaches to global learning

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Higher Education, International Education, Educational Technology, Global Studies, or related field
• 5 years of relevant experience in global education, virtual exchange, COIL, or international academic programming
• Demonstrated ability to influence and persuade faculty, staff, and partners to adopt innovative teaching practices and new pedagogical approaches
• Teaching experience in higher education or related settings
• Experience implementing at least two EDGE/COIL projects in the classroom
• Experience implementing or scaling project-based virtual exchange at a research-intensive or decentralized institution
• Familiarity with global learning or intercultural learning assessment frameworks
• Experience managing program budgets, grants, or external funding
• Experience working effectively across complex academic and administrative environments

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

Bachelor's Degree; 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. 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 $59,580.00 - $86,400.00. 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.

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.