Business Assistance Specialist

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on assistance and step-by-step guidance to aspiring and existing small business owners in areas such as financial literacy, business planning, and budgeting.
• Assist clients in navigating early-stage business development, operational barriers, and access to resources.
• Conduct community outreach and engagement with local organizations and stakeholders to increase awareness of SBDC services.
• Support clients with microgrant applications by helping them navigate requirements and assemble documentation.
• Develop and deliver workshops, presentations, and training programs on entrepreneurship and core small business topics.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with internal departments and community resource partners.
• Perform frequent travel throughout the four-county Northern Tier service area, including field-based work and occasional evening or weekend hours.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business, communications, education, social sciences, or a related field.
• Experience in client-facing roles such as advising, coaching, education, workforce development, or community outreach.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to provide clear, structured guidance.
• Ability to effectively deliver presentations and workshops to both small and large groups.
• Proficiency with standard business software and digital tools.
• Willingness to travel within the Northern Tier service area.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree.
• Experience in entrepreneurship, small business operations, or small business ownership.

About the Company

The University of Scranton is a Catholic and Jesuit university dedicated to the formation of students, the freedom of inquiry, and a commitment to the common good. Through the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), the University provides vital resources and support to help local entrepreneurs and small businesses thrive.