Events Specialist; Event and Conference Planner II

Events Specialist (Event and Conference Planner II)

Apply Now Job no: 554616
Work type: Staff
Location: San Diego
Categories: Unit 9 - CSUEU - Technical Support Services, Probationary, Full Time, Marketing/Communications, Telecommute eligible (work onsite as scheduled and/or as requested and telecommute as scheduled)

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.

• 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.

• Help elevate and celebrate SDSU’s faculty and student research, scholarship, and creative achievements.
• Plan and execute high-profile events that engage campus and community stakeholders.
• Work closely with senior leadership in a collaborative, innovative research environment.
• Apply creativity, strategy, and organizational expertise in a role with visible campus impact.
• Join a mission-driven division committed to advancing research excellence and community engagement.

• Full-time, benefits eligible, permanent/probationary position.
• 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 may vary based on operational needs (Evening and weekend hours are required to support events).
• This position is eligible for telecommuting up to 1 day per week with onsite work in San Diego

Our mission at the Division of Research and Innovation (DRI) is to amplify and invest in transformative, multidisciplinary research, scholarship and creative activities and fortify San Diego State University as a premier community-engaged and border-connected public research university where excellence and access converge. Our vision is to encourage university and community partners to push the limits of imagination and discovery, catalyzing innovative, equitable and collaborative solutions to society’s most pressing challenges.

For more information regarding the Division of Research and Innovation,  .

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…