Position Function:
The purpose of this position is to coordinate our student startup development program, Venture Catalyst. In this role, the position will be responsible for advancing students through a staged process and towards a goal of successful investment. This position will be primarily responsible for direct counseling and support of teams, as well as coordinating external review panels involved in the process, under the direct supervision of the director. Additional responsibilities will be supporting K-12 outreach goals of the CEO.
Salary Grade: 14
Please see Staff Compensation Structure for salary ranges.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Plans, implements, evaluates, and oversees the student startup program, including recruitment of teams, tracking of team progress, and assistance to exit, working closely with the CEO Director, Supervises multiple student workers also in supporting roles to startup teams.
2. Meets one-on-one with entrepreneurial teams to refine business models and assist them with prioritizing tasks. Provides strategy suggestions to teams.
3. Identifies resources available from within the CEO and MSU helpful to startup companies. Makes connections and introductions for teams.
4. Coordinates external review panelists and other external constituents that assist in startup programs.
5. Makes suggestions on how to streamline processes or increase efficacy of programs.
6. Assists with the preparation of proposals, interfacing with donors, and funding agencies.
7. Assists with planning, coordinating, and execution of K-12 Outreach projects, including competitions and challenges.
8. Assists with actively promoting entrepreneurship to students classes, faculty development sessions, foundation development groups, and prospective high school students to encourage entrepreneurship.
9. Complete other duties as requested.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in a related field.
One year of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in engineering or industrial technology.
Experience and familiarity with lean startup methodologies.
Direct entrepreneurial experience in a venture or angel funded company.
Experience working in a research institution.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
1. Strong interpersonal and relationship management skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies.
2. Ability to prioritize competing demands and to meet deadlines.
3. Ability to maintain confidentiality of records and information.
4. Must be willing to work occasional evenings and weekends for special events.
5. Oral and written communication skills, including social media.
6. Telephone, email, and social media techniques and etiquette.
7. Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
1. Work is performed under typical classroom, laboratory, or office conditions and the noise level is usually high.
2. Requires sufficient ambulatory ability to stand for extended periods of time, life, and move medium weight materials up to 25 pounds, and move to work stations.
3. Requires sufficient arm, hand, finger dexterity to use a computer keyboard and other office and peripheral equipment.
4. Requires normal hearing and speaking skills to communicate with staff and students in on- on-one and small group settings.
5. Requires the visual acuity to read printed materials and labels and to observe students perform tests and assignments.
6. Job may require working evenings, weekends and holidays. Must be available for instate and out of state travel as needed.
Instructions for Applying:
All applicants must apply on line at www.msujobs.msstate.edu and attach a cover letter, current resume, or curriculum vitae, and the complete contact information for at least three professional references.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
