Student Engagement & Events Coordinator, Mike Ilitch School of Business

Wayne State University • Detroit, MI

6d • Hybrid

About The Position

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Student Engagement & Events Coordinator, Mike Ilitch School of Business at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
Job Purpose
The Student Engagement and Event Coordinator supports the Associate Director of Events and Operations in planning, coordinating, and executing a wide range of programs and facility operations that enhance the overall student, alumni, and guest experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Prior experience in event planning, student engagement, operations, facilities management, or hospitality required.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
• Customer-service-oriented, dependable, and proactive in anticipating customer needs.
• Basic understanding of audiovisual systems and willingness to learn venue-specific technology.
• Ability to lift and move furniture or equipment safely.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the planning, organization, and coordination of events - including meetings, programs, and signature initiatives - that support student success, alumni engagement, enrollment, and school visibility.
• Meet with planning committees and stakeholders to define event scope, goals, desired outcomes, and facility preparations; coordinate volunteers and staff assignments to ensure seamless event execution, as needed.
• Establish and monitor work plans and budget proposals; secure vendors, coordinate payment processing; and oversee the development of printing and promotional materials.
• Coordinate participant registrations, speaker support, catering, and custodial needs and serve as a liaison to venue and event service providers.
• Manage project scope and changes; identify potential risks and develop contingency plans. Prepare event briefings and run-of-show documents and conduct post-event debriefings to identify lessons learned and opportunities for improvement.
• Assist with daily event setups, including room access, furniture, technical equipment, and materials, in accordance with event specifications.
• Provide onsite coordination and event management, serving as the primary point of contact during live events, as assigned.
• Support both internal and external group events with a focus on professionalism, timing, and guest satisfaction.
• Assist in maintaining event and operations documentation, calendars, and reports to ensure efficient communication and planning.
• Collaborate with the Director to maintain and update the team’s Standard Operating Procedure manual and event checklists to ensure best practices and continuity of operations.
• Support student organizations in scheduling and planning meetings and events, ensuring alignment with school policies and collaboration with relevant departments and programs.
• Attend staff meetings, brainstorming sessions, and training activities as required.
• Assist with the mentorship and supervision of student assistants and volunteers, supporting their skill development, accountability, and contributions to a collaborative team environment.
• Monitor the cleanliness and appearance of public, meeting, and event spaces, perform light cleaning as needed and report issues to the Director of Events and Operations.
• Organize and maintain orderly storage areas; ensure timely removal or repair of damaged furnishings.
• Understand and assist with basic sound and video procedures for event spaces within the school.
• Provide backup support to the Director for building operations, including but not limited to managing incoming work order requests, responding to facility emergencies, and supporting event space reservations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level