Educational Specialist Full Time

To continue developing education and outreach programs that create pathways into the semiconductor industry.

This is a temporary, benefit-eligible opportunity with an anticipated duration through anticipated duration through June 2027.

Department Overview:

The Microelectronics Education and Research Center (MERC) is the hub for microelectronics innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development in Idaho. Organized within Boise State’s College of Engineering, MERC centralizes and coordinates opportunities for all students in essential career preparation and unique research opportunities alongside expert faculty.

Several workforce development grants have become the signature programs for MERC coming from state, federal, and other funding sources. The goals of each is to bolster microelectronics career pathways for students across the region through K-12 outreach and recruiting, curriculum updates across the university and with other institutions, development of new experiential learning programs, and through external partnerships. The workforce development grants currently housed within MERC establish Boise State as a nationwide leader in semiconductor education and research, while significantly enhancing opportunities for the next generation of professionals entering the workforce.

Level Scope:

Fully competent and productive professional contributor who applies acquired job skills, policies, and procedures to complete substantive assignments/projects/tasks of moderate scope and complexity. Works independently with general supervision; exercises judgment within defined guidelines and practices to determine appropriate action. May provide guidance and assistance to entry level professionals and/or support employees.

Essential Functions:

95% of Time the Educational Specialist must:

• Develop, implement, and manage education and outreach programs under multiple initiatives in collaboration with program managers, department leadership, and project PIs, including adapting or expanding programming as needed.
• Coordinate and deliver professional development events, workshops, and special topic programming for K–12 educators, postsecondary educators, and informal education audiences in alignment with grant and program objectives.
• Supervise, train, and support an education team, including undergraduate student employees, ensuring effective program delivery and team performance.
• Establish, develop, and maintain strong partnerships with K–12 schools, postsecondary institutions, industry partners, and community organizations to support outreach and program goals.
• Provide participants with accurate information on postsecondary pathways, academic programs, and career opportunities, including referrals to appropriate advisors or resources when needed.
• Plan, coordinate, and conduct community tours and outreach activities, proactively identifying new opportunities to promote program visibility and advance the mission of the organization.
• Collect, analyze, and track program data in collaboration with team members to support program evaluation, continuous improvement, and required grant reporting.
• Support grant-related activities by preparing, contributing to, and assisting in the presentation of reports in accordance with funding requirements.
• Assist in the development, implementation, and coordination of internship programs aligned with educational and workforce development goals.
• Develop, manage, and distribute marketing and communication materials, including website content, social media, newsletters, and other outreach tools, ensuring alignment with program objectives.
• Ensure the confidentiality, security, and appropriate handling of student and program data in compliance with organizational policies and applicable regulations.
• Manage and reconcile purchasing activities using a university p-card, ensuring compliance with institutional policies and procedures related to program operations.

5% of Time the Educational Specialist must:

• Perform other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Demonstrated experience teaching STEM content in both formal and informal educational settings.
• Knowledge of curriculum design principles and instructional best practices.
• Proficiency in standard computer applications, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, etc.).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly and effectively to a variety of audiences.
• Excellent organizational and administrative skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain attention to detail.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to address challenges effectively while maintaining a high level of customer service.
• Knowledge of marketing and promotional strategies to support program outreach and engagement.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and apply critical thinking in decision-making.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and build effective working relationships.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent plus 2 years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience working with low-income participants.
• Background in curriculum design related to STEM topics with an emphasis on microelectronic and semiconductor concepts.
• Bilingual is a plus and experience working with populations from different backgrounds.

Salary and Benefits:

Salary range is $50,065.60 to $62,587.20 annually and is commensurate with experience. Boise State University provides a best-in-class benefits package , including (but not limited to):

• 12 paid holidays AND the University is closed between Christmas and New Year’s (requires use of 3 vacation days)
• Between 12-24 annual paid vacation days for full-time Professional and Classified staff depending on position type and years of service
• 10.76% University contribution to your ORP retirement fund (Professional and Faculty employees)
• 11.96% University contribution to your PERSI retirement fund (Classified employees)
• Excellent medical, dental and other health-related insurance coverages
• Tuition fee waiver benefits for employees, spouses and their dependents
• See our full benefits page for more information!

Required Application Materials:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Contact information for three (3) professional references

About Us:

Nestled along the Boise River and steps from the state capitol, Boise State University fosters a vibrant and welcoming academic environment that fuels student and employee success. We’re a trailblazing institution, nationally recognized for our innovative spirit and commitment to positive impact on Idaho and beyond.

Boise State is proud to be recognized by Forbes as the only Idaho employer listed in the top 100 of all national midsize and large employers. We’re building a thriving community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, experiences, and perspectives come together to create a rich and rewarding academic experience. Applications from all backgrounds are welcomed.

Learn more about Boise State and living in Idaho’s Treasure Valley at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/