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Commencement Planning Specialist

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Type:
Salary
Rate:
Range $49,100.00 - $71,200.00
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Life insurance
Parental leave

Job Description

Western Governors University (WGU) is a pioneering online university committed to expanding access to higher education through competency-based degree programs. Established to meet the needs of 21st-century learners, WGU blends innovation with a deep commitment to student success, providing flexible and affordable education tailored to real-world demands. The university has earned widespread recognition across academic, industry, government, and media sectors for redefining how higher education can be delivered effectively in a digital age. At WGU, the mission is clear: to create meaningful opportunities for individuals and communities to improve their lives through education and lifelong learning. This dedication transcends into... Show More

Job Requirements

  • high school diploma or equivalent
  • two years of prior office experience
  • strong customer service skills
  • excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
  • strong organizational skills
  • attention to detail
  • experience in project or event management preferred
  • ability to travel and work during commencement weekends
  • proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Salesforce
  • ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
  • must be able to lift up to 15 pounds
  • ability to sit for prolonged periods
  • willingness to work four days a week in office at Salt Lake City headquarters

Job Qualifications

  • high school diploma or degree (bachelor’s degree preferred)
  • two years’ previous office experience
  • strong customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills
  • strong organizational skills
  • attention to detail
  • project and/or event management experience a plus
  • ability to travel and work commencement weekends
  • analytical skills with understanding of metrics
  • creative and collaborative mindset
  • working knowledge of Salesforce and Microsoft Office Suite
  • experience in procurement, accounts payable, and finance support preferred
  • ability to work as part of a team
  • critical thinking and decision-making skills
  • self-motivated
  • good time and project management skills
  • effective written and verbal communication and editing skills
  • professionalism with effective judgment and integrity

Job Duties

  • serve as a primary contact for answering, resolving, and archiving incoming calls and emails
  • manage assignments for commencement weekends including the RSVP process for each ceremony, regular commencement reporting, and all commencement communication
  • assist commencement planners with vendor and logistical coordination for assigned commencements
  • assist with tracking expenses, submitting invoices, obtaining requisitions and purchase orders, and payment follow up as needed for assigned commencements
  • manage travel logistics with commencement manager including hotels, buses, venues, and other needs as necessary
  • select and provide support to vendors to ensure staff and graduates have the necessary commencement-related resources
  • work closely with event logistic team to research and select appropriate vendors
  • support graduate experience by assisting with RSVP process for each ceremony, regular commencement reporting, and commencement communication
  • logistical support on site during commencement weekends
  • collaborate with team members on commencement assignments such as catering, graduate speaker selection, ambassador, and faculty support
  • perform customer service functions including answering phones, returning emails, and assisting graduates with their requests and needs
  • other duties as assigned

Job Qualifications

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)

Job Location