"Event Coordinator (Event Conference Planner II)"

Position Summary

The Event Coordinator plays a key role in bringing the College of Arts and Letters' vision to life through impactful, well-executed events. As part of the Dean's Office team, this position collaborates closely with college leadership, communications, development, and resource management to plan and deliver a wide range of events that support strategic priorities, community engagement, and advancement efforts. With a balanced focus on donor/alumni events and broader college programming, the role manages all aspects of event planning-from concept through execution and follow-up. This is an exciting opportunity for a detail-oriented, creative professional who thrives in a collaborative environment and enjoys producing meaningful, high-visibility events.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute college-sponsored events, including donor and alumni engagement activities, lectures, conferences, and recognition events.
• Manage event logistics, timelines, budgets, and financial processes in compliance with university policies.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including faculty, staff, vendors, and community partners.
• Support event promotion in coordination with communications staff and ensure strong audience engagement.
• Lead on-site event execution and post-event follow-up, including documentation and evaluation.

Why Join Us?

• Create impactful events that support arts, humanities, and community engagement initiatives.
• Work closely with college leadership and advancement teams on high-visibility programming.
• Apply creativity and organization in a role that blends strategy, logistics, and collaboration.
• Gain experience supporting donor relations and alumni engagement efforts.
• Join a mission-driven college committed to cultural enrichment, scholarship, and public engagement.

Position Information

• This is a full-time (1.0 time-base), benefits eligible, permanent/probationary position.
• This position is designated exempt under FLSA and is not eligible for overtime compensation.
• Standard SDSU work hours are Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but are expected to vary based on operational needs.
• The individual hired into this role is approved for partial telecommuting with onsite work in San Diego.

Department Summary

The College of Arts and Letters has 18 academic departments, 12 interdisciplinary programs, 24 centers, and one joint doctoral program. With over 475 permanent faculty and associated lecturers, the College is the largest of the seven colleges at San Diego State University and is responsible for 36% of the instruction at the University. There are approximately 60 clerical and technical employees in the college. The Dean's Office is responsible for the implementation and continued support of the instructional, research, and development processes in the college.

For more information regarding the College of Arts and Letters, click here.

Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in a related field and two years of relevant experience. Additional experience which demonstrates acquired and successfully applied knowledge and abilities shown above may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis. An advanced degree in a related field may be substituted for the required experience on a year-for-year basis.

Key Qualifications

• Experience coordinating logistics for events, meetings, or programs, including venue coordination, catering, audiovisual support, and scheduling.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, timelines, and deadlines while preparing detailed event documentation such as run-of-show materials, checklists, and schedules.
• Working knowledge of financial and administrative processes, including tracking and reconciling event expenses and applying procurement, contract, and compliance policies.
• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in standard office software and the ability to quickly learn event management and campus systems.
• Experience planning and coordinating events in academic, advancement, or development environments, including large-scale events with 50+ attendees is preferred.
• Experience supporting donor cultivation, stewardship, and alumni engagement events, with an understanding of audience-focused event execution is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and coordinate the work of student assistants, staff, and/or volunteers during event planning and execution is preferred.
• Experience developing standardized event planning tools, templates, and process documentation to improve efficiency and consistency is preferred.
• Knowledge of SDSU and CSU systems and policies is preferred.
• Ability to collaborate with marketing and communications teams on event promotion, with familiarity with ADA accessibility considerations and experience working in public-facing or unionized environments is preferred.

Compensation and Benefits

San Diego State University offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth.

Compensation:

CSUEU Salary

Step placement will be determined based on relevant qualifications and professional experience, in alignment with the department's budget and equity guidelines.

• Initial step placement is not expected to exceed Step 7 ($5,200) for highly qualified candidates.
• Salary step placement for internal applicants will follow the CSUEU Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• CSU Classification Salary Range: $4,617-$6,727 per month (Step 1 - Step 20).
• Future increases, including step advancements, are subject to contract negotiations.

Full Benefits Package Includes:

• Generous Time Off: 15 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Retirement: CalPERS pension plan with retiree healthcare, and reciprocal agreements with other California public retirement systems, including the UC.
• Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision options at low or no cost.
• Education Support: CSU tuition fee waiver for employees and eligible dependents.
• Optional Offerings: FlexCash, life and disability insurance, legal and pet plans.
• Campus & Community: Access to the library, campus events, employee groups, and volunteer and social activities.

Our benefits are a significant part of total compensation. Learn more at the SDSU Benefits Overview.