Appalchia Intermediate Unit 8
Emerging Technologies and Project Specialist
Appalchia Intermediate Unit 8, Altoona, Pennsylvania, us, 16603
Overview
Emerging Technologies and Project Specialist
Join to apply for the
Emerging Technologies and Project Specialist
role at
Appalchia Intermediate Unit 8 .
Job Details Location:
As assigned by administration
Reports to:
Director of Curriculum Innovation
Terms:
12 Month
Labor Status:
Exempt
Job Classification:
Non-Bargaining Unit Compensation Plan-Non-Directors
Certification:
As required by the PA Department of Education in accordance with Certification and Staffing Policy Guidelines (CSPG) in an area acceptable to the Intermediate Unit.
Company Overview The Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 (AIU8) is one of the 29 intermediate units that provides a vast array of services for member school districts, including student services, training and technical assistance, online learning, and customized programs and services. AIU8 includes four counties comprised of 35 school districts (approximately 98 schools) and five Career Technical Centers. Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 serves approximately 47,000 students across four counties within 3500 square miles. Our service area includes four counties: Blair, Somerset, Bedford, and Cambria. We have five different office locations within our service area: Altoona, Duncansville, Ebensburg, Richland, and Somerset. AIU8 has opportunities for everyone and our service area offers a broad range of living environments from rural to more densely populated city areas.
Job Summary The Emerging Technologies & Project Specialist will lead the planning, coordination, and implementation of innovative educational initiatives that integrate best practices in instructional design, student engagement, and the use of emerging technologies. This role will combine the responsibilities of supporting special projects with advancing the use of new technologies (e.g., AI, virtual/augmented reality, adaptive learning platforms) to improve teaching and learning outcomes across the IU8 region.
The specialist will work closely with administrators, teachers, and community partners to design programs, deliver professional learning, and identify resources that foster innovation and meaningful learner engagement.
Supervisory Responsibilities Supervisory Responsibilities:
No
Key Responsibilities
Lead planning, implementation, oversight, and evaluation of special projects for IU8.
Develop project budgets, manage the budgets and resources, including purchasing and reporting, using established processes and procedures, and in collaboration with the department director and IU8’s office of business.
Develop and expand partnerships with community agencies, higher education, and businesses to support educational initiatives.
Develop and engage in activities, including face-to-face, webpage, social media, podcasts, etc., to highlight and promote special projects awareness and participation to the community, schools, students, and parents.
Develop a network of school districts and CTCs to serve as hosts to special projects, events, and activities.
Maintain an accurate inventory of all special projects’ equipment and supplies.
Manage the planning and processes for transporting all needed supplies for any special project to the designated/host location.
Facilitate effective communication with administrators, teachers, guidance counselors, parents, and students concerning special projects.
Research, pilot, and recommend emerging technologies to enhance curriculum and instruction.
Support districts with the implementation of AI, digital learning platforms, VR/AR, and other tools that increase learner engagement.
Provide professional development and technical assistance on integrating technology into instruction while maintaining equity and accessibility.
Monitor trends in educational technology and advise leadership on strategic adoption.
Develop and support initiatives that strengthen student voice, choice, and active learning opportunities.
Promote innovative instructional practices that blend technology with traditional methods to foster collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving.
Create communication strategies (web, social media, podcasts, newsletters) to highlight innovation and encourage participation.
Serve as liaison to school districts, CTCs, administrators, and educators on curriculum, engagement, and technology projects.
Facilitate professional learning networks and communities of practice across the region.
Support the recruitment, training, and supervision of staff or volunteers needed for projects and summer programming.
Work collaboratively with representatives of human resources to facilitate the hiring process for all staff required for summer programming.
Attend and participate in Curriculum meetings, including staff/team meetings, network meetings, and any other meetings as requested by the Director.
Participate in all professional learning/development activities, as assigned and determined appropriate by the Curriculum Director.
Complete all required reporting and records accurately and within timelines established by educational partners, the department of curriculum, and/or the IU8 organization.
Work effectively as a member of a team and collaborate within and across departments to enhance and support student and adult learning through special projects.
Manage multiple tasks, be able to prioritize, and maintain follow-through to completion of assigned tasks with minimal supervision.
Serve as the point of contact and lead coordinator of all special projects.
Support federal and state initiatives as assigned.
Use current technology applications effectively for instruction, communication, productivity, and marketing purposes.
Demonstrate the highest standards of ethical conduct and model compliance with IU8 policies, procedures, protocols, and relevant regulations and codes of conduct.
Demonstrates regular and timely attendance.
Must have a personal vehicle for reliable transportation to work locations within and outside the IU8 region.
Other duties as assigned by the Director of Curriculum Innovation, Assistant Executive Director, or Executive Director.
Requirements
A bachelor’s degree and Pennsylvania certification in accordance with Certification and Staffing Policy Guidelines (CSPG).
A minimum of five years of satisfactory teaching experience.
Experience in planning and coordinating projects/events and/or professional learning.
Demonstrated knowledge of emerging technologies in K–12 education.
Strong technology skills for productivity, communication, and instructional purposes.
Current and acceptable clearances: Act 34 (PA State Police), Act 151 (PA Child Abuse History), Act 114 (PDE Fingerprinting), PDE6004 (Arrest & Conviction), and Act 168 (PA Sexual Misconduct background)
Upon hire, all new employees must obtain a certificate of medical examination as well as a tuberculosis test as required under Chapter 14 of the Public School Code, 24 P.S.
14-1416, 14-1418; 22 PA Code
49.12(b) (regarding education); and 28 Pa Code
23.44 (regarding health and safety).
Must be adept in operating a computer and computer systems; be able to work independently and follow through to completion of all assigned tasks; manage multiple tasks; be able to interpret, analyze, and problem solve across all areas of assigned responsibilities effectively and efficiently. It is necessary to converse and interact with individuals with diverse levels of education and abilities.
Desired Qualifications
A graduate degree in curriculum, instructional technology, or educational leadership is preferred.
Proficient communication (verbal and written) skills and presentation skills
Experience with AI, VR/AR, digital learning platforms, or instructional design
Ability to lead professional development and present to varied audiences.
Ability to cooperate and collaborate with others, and establish and maintain credible relationships with internal and external stakeholders
Proficient organizational skills and attention to detail
Proficient in interpersonal and conflict resolution skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to exercise good judgment
Proficiency across a wide variety of technologies for productivity, presentations, and virtual collaborations and meetings, including organization-specific software and technology.
Work Environment and Physical Demands The work environment includes office settings, school settings, and community settings. Regular travel throughout the Intermediate Unit area, with possible travel within the state, where overnight stays may be required.
The physical demands described below are representative of those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Ability to remain in a stationary position for an extended period of time
Ability to move about various work environments
Ability to position oneself to manage and retrieve various job materials and supplies
Ability to push, pull, move, and lift up to 25 pounds
Ability to operate a computer for extended periods and other office equipment as needed and work-related
Ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand and exchange information with others in a variety of ways for understanding.
Ability and willingness to travel as necessary to fulfill job duties and requirements
Must be able to interpret, analyze, and problem solve. It is necessary to read and understand documents with varying complexity and apply the information to the work.
The position holder must be able to perform the essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation. It is the responsibility of the employee to inform the Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 Human Resources Manager of any and all reasonable accommodations that will be required.
Benefits
Comprehensive health insurance coverage is provided with no monthly premiums
Dental Insurance
Vision Care Plan
Health Savings Account (HSAs)
Tuition Reimbursement
403 (b) Plan
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
Pennsylvania Public Schools Employees’ Retirement System (PSERS)
Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 is an equal opportunity employer.
How to Apply How to Apply:
Online at: https://www.applitrack.com/aiu08/onlineapp/
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Join to apply for the
Emerging Technologies and Project Specialist
role at
Appalchia Intermediate Unit 8 .
Job Details Location:
As assigned by administration
Reports to:
Director of Curriculum Innovation
Terms:
12 Month
Labor Status:
Exempt
Job Classification:
Non-Bargaining Unit Compensation Plan-Non-Directors
Certification:
As required by the PA Department of Education in accordance with Certification and Staffing Policy Guidelines (CSPG) in an area acceptable to the Intermediate Unit.
Company Overview The Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 (AIU8) is one of the 29 intermediate units that provides a vast array of services for member school districts, including student services, training and technical assistance, online learning, and customized programs and services. AIU8 includes four counties comprised of 35 school districts (approximately 98 schools) and five Career Technical Centers. Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 serves approximately 47,000 students across four counties within 3500 square miles. Our service area includes four counties: Blair, Somerset, Bedford, and Cambria. We have five different office locations within our service area: Altoona, Duncansville, Ebensburg, Richland, and Somerset. AIU8 has opportunities for everyone and our service area offers a broad range of living environments from rural to more densely populated city areas.
Job Summary The Emerging Technologies & Project Specialist will lead the planning, coordination, and implementation of innovative educational initiatives that integrate best practices in instructional design, student engagement, and the use of emerging technologies. This role will combine the responsibilities of supporting special projects with advancing the use of new technologies (e.g., AI, virtual/augmented reality, adaptive learning platforms) to improve teaching and learning outcomes across the IU8 region.
The specialist will work closely with administrators, teachers, and community partners to design programs, deliver professional learning, and identify resources that foster innovation and meaningful learner engagement.
Supervisory Responsibilities Supervisory Responsibilities:
No
Key Responsibilities
Lead planning, implementation, oversight, and evaluation of special projects for IU8.
Develop project budgets, manage the budgets and resources, including purchasing and reporting, using established processes and procedures, and in collaboration with the department director and IU8’s office of business.
Develop and expand partnerships with community agencies, higher education, and businesses to support educational initiatives.
Develop and engage in activities, including face-to-face, webpage, social media, podcasts, etc., to highlight and promote special projects awareness and participation to the community, schools, students, and parents.
Develop a network of school districts and CTCs to serve as hosts to special projects, events, and activities.
Maintain an accurate inventory of all special projects’ equipment and supplies.
Manage the planning and processes for transporting all needed supplies for any special project to the designated/host location.
Facilitate effective communication with administrators, teachers, guidance counselors, parents, and students concerning special projects.
Research, pilot, and recommend emerging technologies to enhance curriculum and instruction.
Support districts with the implementation of AI, digital learning platforms, VR/AR, and other tools that increase learner engagement.
Provide professional development and technical assistance on integrating technology into instruction while maintaining equity and accessibility.
Monitor trends in educational technology and advise leadership on strategic adoption.
Develop and support initiatives that strengthen student voice, choice, and active learning opportunities.
Promote innovative instructional practices that blend technology with traditional methods to foster collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving.
Create communication strategies (web, social media, podcasts, newsletters) to highlight innovation and encourage participation.
Serve as liaison to school districts, CTCs, administrators, and educators on curriculum, engagement, and technology projects.
Facilitate professional learning networks and communities of practice across the region.
Support the recruitment, training, and supervision of staff or volunteers needed for projects and summer programming.
Work collaboratively with representatives of human resources to facilitate the hiring process for all staff required for summer programming.
Attend and participate in Curriculum meetings, including staff/team meetings, network meetings, and any other meetings as requested by the Director.
Participate in all professional learning/development activities, as assigned and determined appropriate by the Curriculum Director.
Complete all required reporting and records accurately and within timelines established by educational partners, the department of curriculum, and/or the IU8 organization.
Work effectively as a member of a team and collaborate within and across departments to enhance and support student and adult learning through special projects.
Manage multiple tasks, be able to prioritize, and maintain follow-through to completion of assigned tasks with minimal supervision.
Serve as the point of contact and lead coordinator of all special projects.
Support federal and state initiatives as assigned.
Use current technology applications effectively for instruction, communication, productivity, and marketing purposes.
Demonstrate the highest standards of ethical conduct and model compliance with IU8 policies, procedures, protocols, and relevant regulations and codes of conduct.
Demonstrates regular and timely attendance.
Must have a personal vehicle for reliable transportation to work locations within and outside the IU8 region.
Other duties as assigned by the Director of Curriculum Innovation, Assistant Executive Director, or Executive Director.
Requirements
A bachelor’s degree and Pennsylvania certification in accordance with Certification and Staffing Policy Guidelines (CSPG).
A minimum of five years of satisfactory teaching experience.
Experience in planning and coordinating projects/events and/or professional learning.
Demonstrated knowledge of emerging technologies in K–12 education.
Strong technology skills for productivity, communication, and instructional purposes.
Current and acceptable clearances: Act 34 (PA State Police), Act 151 (PA Child Abuse History), Act 114 (PDE Fingerprinting), PDE6004 (Arrest & Conviction), and Act 168 (PA Sexual Misconduct background)
Upon hire, all new employees must obtain a certificate of medical examination as well as a tuberculosis test as required under Chapter 14 of the Public School Code, 24 P.S.
14-1416, 14-1418; 22 PA Code
49.12(b) (regarding education); and 28 Pa Code
23.44 (regarding health and safety).
Must be adept in operating a computer and computer systems; be able to work independently and follow through to completion of all assigned tasks; manage multiple tasks; be able to interpret, analyze, and problem solve across all areas of assigned responsibilities effectively and efficiently. It is necessary to converse and interact with individuals with diverse levels of education and abilities.
Desired Qualifications
A graduate degree in curriculum, instructional technology, or educational leadership is preferred.
Proficient communication (verbal and written) skills and presentation skills
Experience with AI, VR/AR, digital learning platforms, or instructional design
Ability to lead professional development and present to varied audiences.
Ability to cooperate and collaborate with others, and establish and maintain credible relationships with internal and external stakeholders
Proficient organizational skills and attention to detail
Proficient in interpersonal and conflict resolution skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to exercise good judgment
Proficiency across a wide variety of technologies for productivity, presentations, and virtual collaborations and meetings, including organization-specific software and technology.
Work Environment and Physical Demands The work environment includes office settings, school settings, and community settings. Regular travel throughout the Intermediate Unit area, with possible travel within the state, where overnight stays may be required.
The physical demands described below are representative of those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Ability to remain in a stationary position for an extended period of time
Ability to move about various work environments
Ability to position oneself to manage and retrieve various job materials and supplies
Ability to push, pull, move, and lift up to 25 pounds
Ability to operate a computer for extended periods and other office equipment as needed and work-related
Ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand and exchange information with others in a variety of ways for understanding.
Ability and willingness to travel as necessary to fulfill job duties and requirements
Must be able to interpret, analyze, and problem solve. It is necessary to read and understand documents with varying complexity and apply the information to the work.
The position holder must be able to perform the essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation. It is the responsibility of the employee to inform the Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 Human Resources Manager of any and all reasonable accommodations that will be required.
Benefits
Comprehensive health insurance coverage is provided with no monthly premiums
Dental Insurance
Vision Care Plan
Health Savings Account (HSAs)
Tuition Reimbursement
403 (b) Plan
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
Pennsylvania Public Schools Employees’ Retirement System (PSERS)
Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 is an equal opportunity employer.
How to Apply How to Apply:
Online at: https://www.applitrack.com/aiu08/onlineapp/
#J-18808-Ljbffr