Business Assistance Specialist

About the role

Lehigh University's Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and Business Assistance Service Center (BASC) sit at the intersection of rigorous academic thinking and real-world economic impact. As a Business Assistance Specialist, you'll translate that expertise into meaningful outcomes for entrepreneurs and business owners across the region. Reporting to the Director, you'll carry a portfolio of client engagements while contributing to the Center's measurable performance targets.

Key Accountabilities

• Delivering one-on-one consulting to startups and established businesses on strategy, business planning, and cash flow projections
• Conducting applied research and presenting findings directly to clients on market conditions, financing options, and industry trends
• Developing, coordinating, and facilitating training programs aligned to specific SBDC/BASC service offerings and client needs
• Monitoring and supporting progress against performance goals set by the Director across individual service areas
• Preparing clear written materials, reports, and presentations for clients covering a range of business topics
• Contributing to broader Center programs and initiatives beyond core consulting, including outreach and partnership activities
• Supporting documented client outcomes that meet state and federal performance benchmarks

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Business; Master's Degree preferred
• Five to eight years of work related experience
• Experience in small business consulting
• Practical knowledge of business plan development, financial modelling, and cash flow analysis
• Ability to design and deliver training content for diverse business audiences
• Strong research skills with the capacity to synthesize information into clear, actionable recommendations
• Familiarity with SBDC reporting requirements or federally funded program compliance is an advantage
• Willingness and ability to work evenings and/or weekends as needed during peak business periods
• Fluency in Spanish (or another second language) preferred

Why Lehigh

Lehigh University brings together a community where scholarship and civic engagement reinforce each other. As part of the College of Business, this role benefits from access to faculty research, a robust professional network, and a culture that values intellectual rigor in service of practical outcomes.

Benefits

• Substantial retirement contributions above standard market rates
• Comprehensive health coverage
• Tuition remission opportunities
• A campus environment that takes professional development seriously

Pay

This position is a Grade: 9 - 40 with an approximate salary range of $56,030-$68,190 and is subject to change based on experience, skills and qualifications.

Schedule

• The duties of the position do not allow for a remote work option; the employee in this position will be required to work on campus where they can be fully accessible to the Lehigh community
• This is a term-limited position through September 2027 (unless otherwise extended)