Event Coordinator

The University of Alabama is a prominent public research university known for its commitment to academic excellence, diverse campus community, and dedication to fostering an inclusive environment for students, staff, and faculty. As a respected institution of higher learning, it offers a wide range of educational programs while supporting extracurricular activities and campus events that enrich student life and community engagement. With a well-established reputation for combining rigorous academics with vibrant student experiences, the university strives to maintain a campus atmosphere where innovation, collaboration, and diversity thrive. It serves thousands of students annually and organizes numerous events to promote admissions, networking, and student success.

The role of Event Coordinator at the University of Alabama is a dynamic and integral position within the Admissions department. This professional will be responsible for planning, implementing, executing, and following up on a wide variety of events both on and off campus. The position, classified as salaried with a pay grade ranging from $44,200 to $55,300 annually, includes a regular work schedule from Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, with occasional evenings and weekends as needed. This role is also eligible for hybrid work arrangements, providing flexibility while adhering to university policy.

The Event Coordinator is tasked with creating invitations, selecting appropriate venues, arranging seating plans, and negotiating contracts with various vendors such as florists, caterers, and print shops. One of the key responsibilities includes managing on-site contract staff and student workers to ensure smooth execution of events. Typical events managed by the coordinator include receptions for prospective students and their parents, high school counselor briefings, and specialized events like Capstone Scholars Day. The coordinator is expected to attend all assigned events and collaborate closely with other campus departments to deliver successful experiences.

This position requires an individual with excellent verbal and written communication skills, strong organizational abilities, and acute attention to detail. The ability to multitask effectively and work collaboratively as part of a team is essential. Candidates should possess knowledge of etiquette, event protocol, social manners, menu planning, decorations, and service skills relevant to event planning. Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel is also required to manage communications, documentation, and scheduling efficiently. The role emphasizes a candidate who can thrive in a fast-paced and evolving environment while maintaining a polished and professional approach to planning and coordination.

The University values candidates who have prior experience in event planning, with a preference given to those who have worked at least one year within a higher education environment, especially in Admissions. Candidates must have a valid U.S. driver’s license, meet specific age requirements, and comply with the university’s motor vehicle policies. Importantly, all hires must pass a comprehensive background investigation, which includes review of social media and internet sources, ensuring the safety and well-being of the university community.

Overall, the Event Coordinator role at the University of Alabama offers an exciting opportunity for a detail-oriented, communicative, and proactive individual to contribute meaningfully to the university’s mission of fostering educational access and success. It combines the challenge of logistical execution with the rewarding experience of enhancing the university’s community relations and admissions outreach efforts, making it a fulfilling career choice for those passionate about event management in an academic setting.