Admin Support Coordinator I

SDSU Research Foundation (SDSURF), established in 1943, serves as a vital support system for San Diego State University by facilitating research activities through funding acquisition and administration. As SDSU continues to establish itself as a premier public research university, achieving R1 status by 2025, SDSURF plays a critical role in fostering discoveries and solutions that positively impact communities and the world. The foundation offers comprehensive grant services throughout the entire lifecycle of sponsored programs, thereby enabling faculty and staff to focus on advancing their innovative research efforts. Its mission centers on facilitating the university's strategic goals by providing exceptional service with integrity, respect, and collaboration.

The SDSU Alumni Center, functioning as a dynamic multi-space venue, hosts over 200 diverse events annually, including meetings, receptions, and university functions. This venue specializes in delivering high-quality event operations that provide outstanding experiences for clients, guests, and campus partners. The Event Coordinator position at the Alumni Center is an essential role that supports the planning and execution of these events. This role requires a person with strong organizational skills, sound judgment, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

The Event Coordinator is responsible for coordinating logistics, managing client communication, overseeing event setup and breakdown, and providing on-site support to ensure smooth and successful event execution. Operating under the general direction of the Association Director, this full-time, regular position demands flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and irregular hours depending on event schedules. The position offers a competitive pay range of $22.00 to $26.00 per hour, dependent on experience.

The role is highly interactive, requiring coordination with clients, vendors, and team members to deliver seamless event experiences. Among the primary responsibilities, the coordinator independently manages logistical aspects, prioritizes tasks, and addresses planning challenges proactively. Event-day issues must be handled swiftly using a combination of reasoning, judgment, and creativity to ensure clients are satisfied and event objectives are met. Furthermore, the Event Coordinator acts as the main point of contact throughout the event process, maintaining constant communication to anticipate needs and resolve concerns efficiently.

In addition to planning and coordination, the position also includes physical involvement such as event setup and teardown, requiring physical stamina for activities like lifting and extended periods of standing. The coordinator ensures setups are safe, functional, and aligned with event plans, maintaining respect and care for venue equipment during breakdown.

Collaboration is a fundamental aspect of this role, requiring the individual to work closely with team members, providing guidance to part-time staff or student assistants during events. The Event Coordinator also liaises with vendors for catering, parking, custodial services, and other logistical elements, ensuring all aspects of the event align with client expectations and university standards.

Technical skills support the role, with responsibilities including basic audio-visual equipment setup and troubleshooting to guarantee smooth presentations and event delivery. This position may also contribute to special projects and cross-functional initiatives to advance the Alumni Center’s goals.

Candidates for this position should possess strong problem-solving abilities, exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, and the capability to manage multiple tasks efficiently under minimal supervision. Familiarity with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, event planning software, and project management tools is important, alongside the ability to adapt in a fast-paced, changing environment. A proactive, self-motivated approach coupled with a commitment to professional growth and learning is essential.

The position requires a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent and at least four years of progressively responsible office or administrative experience. Preference is given to candidates with backgrounds in hospitality, customer service, or events, and those with experience coordinating meetings, conferences, receptions, or with AV equipment. Applicants must reside in California within commutable distance to SDSU and pass a background check upon hiring.

SDSURF is committed to equal employment opportunity and adheres to federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination. They foster an inclusive culture that values diversity and promotes professional development. This role offers an opportunity for a dedicated individual to contribute to SDSU’s mission by delivering superior event coordination services at the Alumni Center.