STEM Outreach Coordinator

Who We Are:

Roanoke Blacksburg Innovation Alliance (RBIA) is a catalyst for growing the Roanoke Blacksburg innovation economy, technology and life sciences sectors, and professional communities. Established in 2013, RBIA is the region’s front door for innovators, founders, and funders to connect a growing roster of companies – both startups and established – with resources to grow and thrive.

RBIA leads a portfolio of organizations and initiatives to elevate our region as a hub for technology and biotechnology:

Roanoke Blacksburg Technology Council (RBTC) is our membership trade organization supporting the growth of the technology and biotechnology industry in the Roanoke-Blacksburg region through membership services, high-quality programming, and connecting regional collaborators.

Regional Accelerator and Mentoring Program (RAMP) grows local tech and biotech startups by supporting entrepreneurs through workshops, mentorship, and access to critical resources.

Common Wealth Angels (CWA) is the only organized angel investor group located in the Roanoke Blacksburg region.

Find out more about us at www.rbia.tech, www.ramprb.com, and www.rbtc.tech.

About the Role:

RBTC is seeking a STEM Outreach Coordinator to develop and implement programs that bridge the gap between industry and education, focusing on connecting students and experienced professionals with high-wage STEM career opportunities in the region. The ideal candidate has strong networking skills, experience building industry partnerships, and the ability to manage multiple projects while achieving measurable job placement outcomes. This position reports to the Alliance’s Director of Innovation.

Project VITAL is a three-year GO Virginia grant initiative designed to strengthen Virginia's innovation ecosystem across multiple regions of Virginia. Region 2, applying as a coalition of over 40 regional partners, including RBTC (Roanoke Blacksburg Technology Council), and led by RBIA (Roanoke Blacksburg Innovation Alliance), received $4.9 million of the total $14.3 million award from GOVA. Region 2 is particularly strong in therapeutics, diagnostics, medical devices, and digital health. This position will build workforce pipelines and facilitate career pathways for students entering these high-wage employment sectors.

The STEM Outreach Coordinator will work collaboratively with RBTC's extended talent team across our alliance and partner organizations, while also partnering with educational institutions including Virginia Western Community College and Blue Ridge Partnership for Health Science Careers other regional partners. This position is funded under Project VITAL through 2027 and we are actively applying for additional grant funding to sustain this position beyond Project VITAL.

What You’ll Do:

Partnership Development & Outreach:

• Build and maintain strategic partnerships with higher education institutions, local businesses, and industry leaders
• Serve as liaison between employers and educational institutions across high schools, community colleges, and four-year degree programs
• Implement train-the-trainer models with educators to inspire and equip them to grow career pathways and industry connections within their own programs
• Plan, organize, and execute events such as career fairs, workshops, industry expos, STEM Day, teacher conferences, and networking events.
• Can manage multiple projects and collaborate across organizations. 
• Experience developing and growing sustainable programs with measurable outcomes
• Skilled at networking and building multi-organizational partnerships. 
• Represent RBIA at conferences and meetings to promote local career opportunities

Student Support & Job Placement:

• Develop and deliver presentations to students, educators, and community members on career options and workforce trends
• Support students and new graduates in finding resources, career counseling, and connections to industry mentors
• Facilitate meaningful connections between employers and students who can enter the workforce within 2-3 years
• Collaborate with industry partners to understand hiring needs and facilitate intern-to-full-time conversions
• Develop comprehensive career pathway resources for students and families

Regional Collaboration:

• Partner with regional economic development organizations and workforce development entities to align efforts
• Identify and engage young professionals in the region to build a talent ambassador network
• Adapt focus and strategies as industry talent needs and funding opportunities change

Data Collection and Reporting:

• Track engagement metrics and gather feedback from students, partners, and stakeholders to assess program effectiveness
• Collect and analyze data on workforce needs and program impact, adjusting outreach strategies as needed
• Report on program outcomes, including partnership successes, student engagement, industry feedback, and job placement results to stakeholders and leadership
• Maintain accurate records for Project VITAL grant reporting requirements

What You Need:

• Bachelor's degree in education, Human Resources, Communications, STEM fields, or a related area; advanced degree preferred
• 2+ years of experience in outreach, education, community engagement, human resources, or workforce development, with focus on STEM preferred
• Knowledge of workforce trends in STEM fields and demonstrated understanding of local and regional industry needs
• Ability to present to diverse audiences including students, educators, and industry professionals
• Track record of building partnerships between educational institutions and employers
• Experience coordinating multi-stakeholder events and managing competing deadlines
• Ability to travel regionally and work flexible hours including some evenings and weekends
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation

Nice-to-Haves:

• Background or demonstrated knowledge of biotechnology, medical devices, or related industries, including the regional ecosystem.
• Experience in career counseling, student services, or workforce development
• Previous work with high schools, community colleges, or higher education institutions
• Knowledge of grant compliance and reporting requirements
• Experience with student placement and job development activities
• Understanding of Virginia's educational systems and career pathway initiatives

Location: Roanoke or Blacksburg office, including on-site visits to partners

Compensation: Our target new hire base salary range for this role is $55,000 – $62,000 annually, commensurate with experience

Benefits: Our comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees includes

• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
• Retirement stipend
• Paid time off
• Flexible work arrangements
• Professional development opportunities

Statement of Non-Discrimination: RBTC is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.

How to Apply: Please submit your application, including cover letter and resume here.

Questions? Please email jobs@rbtc.tech