CES Event Specialist, UPDATED*

Sonoma State University is a public higher education institution located in Sonoma, California. Known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement, the university fosters a diverse and inclusive environment where students, faculty, and staff collaborate to achieve shared goals. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and scholarship, Sonoma State provides a vibrant campus experience enriched by a variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities. Part of the California State University system, Sonoma State University upholds values of respect, responsibility, and integrity, supporting a student-centered educational journey. The university offers numerous resources and services to enhance the academic and personal growth of its community members, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere where diversity is celebrated.

The role of the CES Event Specialist plays a critical part within the Conference and Event Services team at Sonoma State University. This full-time position involves coordinating and facilitating a wide array of events for diverse stakeholders, including students, staff, faculty, and external guests. Reporting to the Associate Director of Conference and Event Services, the Event Specialist is responsible for initiating, coordinating, and executing various administrative and analytical tasks to support event planning and management. The specialist handles contract preparation, account relationship maintenance, and event setup coordination from initial planning through execution.

Key responsibilities include managing and inputting data into campus event scheduling software and catering platforms, coordinating logistics, and overseeing service delivery to ensure a seamless event experience. The position requires independent judgment in interpreting university policies and procedures and demands a creative, solutions-oriented mindset to address challenges that arise during event planning and execution. Additionally, the incumbent prepares and analyzes budgetary documents, supports office functions, and engages with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. This role demands flexibility, collaboration, and a commitment to enhancing the overall client experience for events that contribute positively to the university community.

The CES Event Specialist position is designated as a full-time, non-exempt staff role with a salary range from $4,799 to $6,992 per month, determined by qualifications and experience. Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance plans, retirement options through CalPERS, tuition waivers, paid vacation and sick leave, and 15 annual paid holidays. Sonoma State University supports employee growth and inclusion, offering an affirming work environment aligned with its strategic goals for diversity and excellence. The university also participates in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, enhancing long-term benefits for eligible employees.

Sonoma State University is dedicated to fostering a workplace that values civility and respect among a diverse population. The Event Specialist position includes regular interaction with various organizational levels and management of sensitive information, requiring discretion and professionalism. The role supports the university’s mission to cultivate community engagement by delivering professionally executed events that enrich the campus experience. If you are highly organized, enjoy collaborative problem solving, and thrive in dynamic settings, this position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Sonoma State University’s vibrant community.