Specialist - Outreach-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The College of Engineering at Michigan State University invites applications for an Outreach Specialist in the Inclusive Excellence Office, with an emphasis on Broadening Participation K-12. This position plays a critical role in advancing the College's commitment to expanding awareness of engineering, increasing access to educational opportunities, and fostering a sense of belonging for future engineers through meaningful outreach, engagement, and recruitment initiatives.

The Outreach Specialist will work collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, K-12 educators, families, community organizations, and industry partners to develop and implement programs that inspire students to explore engineering disciplines and pursue pathways into higher education. The successful candidate will be passionate about STEM education, student engagement, and creating opportunities that help students envision themselves as future engineers.

This is a full-time, 12-month, end-dated position. The initial appointment is one year from the date of hire. Continued employment beyond the initial appointment period may be possible, subject to available funding, satisfactory performance, and mutual agreement between the employee and the College.

Key Responsibilities

K-12 Outreach and Recruitment

• Develop and deliver K-12 engineering outreach programs, presentations, and hands-on activities.
• Represent the College of Engineering at schools, community events, college fairs, and recruitment programs.
• Build and maintain partnerships with K-12 schools, educators, community organizations, and industry partners.
• Promote engineering education and career pathways to prospective students and their families.

Programs and Events

• Coordinate engineering summer camps, workshops, and other pre-college experiences.
• Assist with College recruitment events, campus visits, and outreach initiatives.
• Recruit, train, and supervise student ambassadors supporting outreach activities.

Program Administration

• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and campus partners to develop and implement outreach initiatives.
• Collect program data, prepare reports, and assist with grant-related activities.
• Represent the College on committees and community partnerships.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Impact of the Role
This position contributes to the College of Engineering's strategic outreach and engagement initiatives by developing programs that connect prospective students with engineering education and careers. The role enhances the College's visibility, builds meaningful partnerships with schools and communities, and supports long-term enrollment and workforce development goals.

Work Location/Environment

This position is based in East Lansing and requires regular in-person work. Occasional travel throughout Michigan and the Midwest, along with evening and weekend hours, is required to support outreach and recruitment activities.

Work Hours

Variable: Typically, 8 am – 5 pm. Occasional evening and weekend hours are required to support outreach and recruitment activities.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Masters -Engineering, education, higher education, student affairs, STEM education, or a related field

Minimum Requirements

• Master's degree in engineering, education, higher education, student affairs, STEM education, or a related field by the time of appointment.
• Minimum of two years of professional experience in K-12 outreach, student recruitment, educational programming, or student success initiatives.
• Experience planning and coordinating programs, events, or outreach activities.
• Strong communication, organizational, and project management skills.
• Ability to build collaborative relationships with students, educators, faculty, staff, and community partners.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends and travel throughout Michigan and the Midwest.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with engineering or STEM outreach programs.
• Experience developing and facilitating youth programs, camps, workshops, or educational events.
• Experience supervising student employees, interns, or volunteers.
• Experience in higher education or a nonprofit educational environment.
• Experience with program assessment, reporting, or grant-supported initiatives.

Required Application Materials

A complete application will include:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Names and contact information for three professional references

Review of Applications Begins On

07/20/2026

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Department Statement

About the Office of Inclusive Excellence

Engineering Inclusive Excellence supports the College of Engineering's mission to inspire future engineers through outreach, educational programs, mentoring, and community partnerships. The office works to connect students with opportunities, resources, and experiences that promote academic success, professional growth, and engagement in engineering. All programs and services are open to all students.

About the College of Engineering

Michigan State University's College of Engineering is dedicated to preparing future leaders and innovators through world-class education, research, and community engagement. The College seeks to expand awareness of engineering, support student success, and create opportunities for students to explore how engineering can improve lives and address society's most pressing challenges.

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.