Events Specialist (Event and Conference Planner II)

San Diego State University • San Diego, CA

2d

About The Position

The Events Specialist plays a highly visible role in showcasing San Diego State University’s Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity (RSCA). Reporting to the Chief of Staff and Director of Strategic Partnerships within the Division of Research and Innovation (DRI), this position plans and executes high-profile events that elevate faculty and student research, strengthen community engagement, and promote the SDSU brand. Working closely with campus leadership and partners, the Specialist manages events from concept through completion in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Requirements

• 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.
• Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills to effectively coordinate with diverse internal and external stakeholders, vendors, sponsors, and event participants, and to develop clear communication and promotional materials.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, coordinate, and manage events and conferences from concept through execution, including establishing goals, monitoring progress, and evaluating outcomes using feedback, data, and defined success criteria.
• Ability to work independently under general supervision, applying sound judgment and discretion to resolve non-routine issues and interpret applicable regulations, standards, and guidelines related to event planning and management.
• Proficiency in using event planning, project management, registration, communication, and financial systems (e.g., Asana, Salesforce, Canva, Cvent, or similar platforms) and other relevant technology and software packages.
• Ability to provide lead work direction, guidance, and training to student assistants, volunteers, and support staff involved in event and conference planning activities.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with planning and executing large-scale events is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee RSCA-focused events from concept through execution, including signature programs such as the SDSU Student Symposium, faculty celebrations, and research advancement events.
• Collaborate with campus leadership, faculty, staff, vendors, sponsors, and community partners to deliver high-quality, impactful events.
• Manage event logistics, timelines, budgets, contracts, and procurement to ensure successful, on-time, and cost-effective delivery.
• Develop and coordinate event communications, registration processes, and promotional materials using event and project management platforms.
• Provide lead work direction, guidance, and training to staff, students, and volunteers supporting event activities.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees