Launch Specialist

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

The North Carolina Small Business & Technology Development Center ( SBTDC) is an inter-institutional program within The University of North Carolina. The SBTDC maintains 16 regional offices located at constituent institutions of the University System across the state. The SBTDC is primarily concerned with supporting economic development in the state by providing assistance in the start-up, expansion, and successful operation of small businesses and by facilitating technology development and transfer within the state's small business community. The SBTDC places greatest emphasis on providing one-on-one confidential business counseling and technical assistance to small business owners and those planning to go into business.

This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that may include a partially remote work location, consistent with System Office policy. UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station.

This position is a first-level business counselor/advisor. The individual provides business advice and counsel to pre-venture business clients as part of a statewide team that focuses on assisting entrepreneurs to evaluate their idea and transition to 'in business' companies. The individual independently obtains and manages a client portfolio that ensures 50-75 business starts annually, with an emphasis of short-term (30-45 day) starts. The individual collaborates and consults with other SBTDC team members and partners to ensure the success of the client. The individual ensures a successful transition of a business client that has started to another SBTDC counselor or professional partner as appropriate. The individual acts as the principal trainer and marketer for cohort-based startup curriculum throughout assigned region. The individual develops and maintains relationships with entrepreneurial activities in the assigned region, with the intent to identify entrepreneurial clients to assist in a successful startup. Examples of entrepreneurial activities include university Centers for Entrepreneurship, incubators, accelerators, collaborative working spaces, and pitch competitions. Ability to travel required. Ability to work in evenings and weekends required.

Bachelor's degree and one year of experience related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

A broad general knowledge of the principals and practices of small business is required. The employee must have strong computer skills, particularly regarding word processing, developing spreadsheets, and database management. A demonstrated ability to develop and analyze financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow) is imperative. Employee must have working knowledge of techniques used in collecting and interpreting market and demographic data. The employee must have the ability to work independently, handle multiple assignments, and establish work priorities. Excellent interpersonal and communicative skills are also required. Must have the ability to travel and work nights and weekends.

Entrepreneurship ecosystem and/or startup experience preferred.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.

This position is only open to United States citizens or lawful permanent residents.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.