Contingency Planning Specialist

The Contingency Planning Specialist will develop and implement strategic, data-driven plans to optimize the operational sustainability of facilities across Penn State’s Commonwealth Campuses. This role will focus on proactive risk assessment and infrastructure planning for campuses facing demographic, enrollment, and financial challenges. Using Intelligent Systems & Engineering Services (ISES) and other institutional data, the specialist will ensure that facilities remain aligned with long-term university priorities, budget efficiency, and community impact.

Additionally, the specialist will oversee facilities budgeting, utility management, and real estate asset optimization, ensuring that campus infrastructure operates cost-effectively and remains a strong community partner. The role requires collaboration with campus leadership, local governments, and external stakeholders to ensure that facilities planning supports both institutional and regional economic goals.

Key Responsibilities
Data-Driven Risk Assessment & Facility Planning:

• Utilize ISES and other data sources to analyze facility usage, enrollment trends, and infrastructure needs.
• Identify campuses with higher operational risk based on demographic shifts, financial outlooks, and deferred maintenance.
• Develop customized (per campus) strategic plans to optimize facility use and ensure long-term sustainability.

Facilities Budgeting & Financial Planning:

• Manage and assess facilities budgets to ensure cost-e ective use of university resources.
• Evaluate capital investments and operating expenses to align with long-term financial goals.
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction through energy efficiency, space optimization, and financial restructuring.

Utilities & Infrastructure:

• Assess utility consumption and develop strategies for cost reduction and sustainability improvements.
• Identify infrastructure improvements that enhance eficiency, reduce energy costs, and modernize campus operations.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to align infrastructure needs with university and community goals.

Real Estate & Asset Management:

• Evaluate university-owned real estate holdings to determine the best use of assets.
• Develop strategies for property leasing, consolidation, or divestment to maximize financial return.
• Negotiate agreements with municipalities and private entities to ensure university assets contribute to regional development.

Community Impact & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Understand local governments and economic development groups to assess how Penn State’s facilities impact regional economies.

Operational & Workforce Planning:

• Assess workforce needs and develop staing plans that align with facilities restructuring e orts.
• Support the integration of technology and process improvements that enhance facility operations.
• Develop workforce transition plans in collaboration with HR and campus leadership.

Qualifications & Experience
Education & Experience:

• 5 years of experience in contingency planning, facilities management, higher education administration, or infrastructure planning.
• Proven ability to develop and manage facilities budgets and capital investment plans.

Technical & Analytical Skills:

• Strong background in financial planning, including facilities budgeting and cost analysis.
• Expertise in utility management, energy efficiency strategies, and infrastructure planning.
• Knowledge of real estate asset management, including leasing, divestment, and property optimization.

Leadership & Communication:

• Strong ability to collaborate with senior leadership, faculty, and community stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present data-driven recommendations clearly.
• Experience in consensus-building and driving major initiatives through complex organizations.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $50.00 - $65.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift

Work Location: Hybrid remote in State College, PA 16801

Salary : $50 - $65