The mission of Penn State Extension is to be a transformative education organization, the premier Cooperative Extension System in the US, and a world leader in non-credit education and consulting. Our formula for success is simple: we hire the best people to work with us in serving diverse populations throughout the Commonwealth and beyond. Our staff, educators, and faculty have a passion for agriculture, community, youth and family, and enjoy sharing that passion with others. Penn State Extension is a change maker for thousands of Pennsylvanians. If you want to be part of the change and do work that truly makes a difference, then apply today to join our team.
Work/life Balance
Penn State Extension is committed to providing our employees with the balance they need to succeed at work and at home. Offering flexible schedules and remote work opportunities, our employees enjoy work schedules that fit their lives.
Resources and Benefits
At Penn State Extension, we know our team members work hard every day to be change drivers throughout Pennsylvania. That is why Penn State Extension makes sure our employees have the benefits and resources they need to take care of themselves and their families, so they can bring the best version of themselves to the job. With generous time off, great medical coverage, retirement and a Penn State tuition discount available to you AND your family, Penn State Extension ensures our team members know how much we value them.
You can find a summary of benefits on the Human Resources site.
Access and Equity
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.
Professional Development
Penn State Extension is committed to enabling all employees to reach their fullest potential as both individuals and members of the organization. We believe that by supporting employees in professional growth, we improve job performance as well as increase levels of personal satisfaction.
Join us and do good for agriculture, families, children, communities, the environment!
“The flexibility of working for extension enabled me to maintain a good balance between my work and family life.”
— Laurie Welch
“I love the fact that I get to help people. I like the variety of audiences I get to interact with and the different settings I find myself in.”
— Andy Hirneisen
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for a position?
All positions require application through the Penn State job portal.
Should I include a cover letter?
Because all of our positions require outstanding communication and marketing skills, your cover letter is important to us. We do read them and take them into consideration.
What is involved in the interview process?
Interviews may be in two stages. The first step may be via Zoom or Skype teleconference. From there, you will be considered for a face-to-face interview. This meeting will include the interview committee and usually takes place at the office site where the position will be housed.
How many people will be in the interview meeting?
This varies. On average, it’s typically about five individuals. Sometimes other individuals from the office or community are also invited for the presentation.
How many references do I need?
Three to five references should be listed on a separate sheet of paper and provided to the chair of the interview committee. Please let your references know that they will be contacted after the interview.
What if I have more questions?
Please visit the Penn State Careers website.