Event Coordinator (Events and Conference Planner II)

San Diego State University (SDSU) is a leading public research university and a distinguished member of the California State University (CSU) system. Located in vibrant San Diego, SDSU embodies a commitment to inclusive excellence, academic achievement, and community engagement. The College of Arts and Letters, part of the largest academic college at SDSU, offers a rich environment composed of 18 academic departments, 12 interdisciplinary programs, 24 research centers, and one joint doctoral program. With over 475 permanent faculty and associated lecturers, the college accounts for 36% of the university's instruction and supports an extensive network of administrators and staff. The Dean's Office delivers vital leadership in advancing instructional, research, and developmental initiatives that align with university standards and community needs.

The College of Arts and Letters is currently seeking an experienced Event Coordinator to join their team. This is a full-time, permanent/probationary, benefits-eligible position based in San Diego, with eligibility for one day of telecommuting after the initial training period. The position is designated as exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and is not eligible for overtime compensation. Standard working hours are Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though hours may vary depending on operational requirements.

As an Event Coordinator at SDSU, you will play a pivotal role in planning, organizing, and executing a diverse range of events aligned with the College of Arts and Letters' academic, development, and community engagement goals. Your portfolio will include donor and alumni gatherings, lectures, conferences, symposia, recognition programs, and other special events essential to nurturing institutional relationships and scholarship. You will independently manage assigned events from initial concept through post-event activities, preparing detailed timelines, logistics, and run-of-show documentation.

This role requires close collaboration with college leadership, development and communications teams, academic units, and external vendors. It demands exceptional organizational skills, professional judgment, and the capacity to handle multiple priorities simultaneously while proactively resolving challenges. The Event Coordinator will serve as the operational lead during event execution, ensuring smooth coordination among staff, vendors, and participants, and managing financial aspects such as budgets, contracts, permissions, and procurement in strict compliance with university fiscal and risk management policies.

Ideal candidates will bring experience in higher education or related nonprofit sectors, familiarity with university financial and event coordination systems, and a strong commitment to accessibility and inclusivity compliant with ADA standards. Key qualifications include expertise in donor and VIP event management, vendor negotiation, catering coordination, and ability to work with diverse campus constituencies. The successful applicant will contribute to continuous improvement efforts by developing event planning templates and process documentation to elevate future events.

The compensation package offers a salary range of $4,617 to $6,727 per month, with initial placements typically not exceeding Step 7 ($5,200/month). SDSU provides a comprehensive benefits package including paid holidays, vacation, sick leave, CalPERS retirement plans with retiree healthcare, low-cost medical, dental, and vision options, tuition fee waivers for employees and dependents, and additional wellness and legal plans. SDSU fosters a diverse, respectful, and inclusive community which values open dialogue and equal opportunities, ensuring all employees have resources to thrive and succeed.

Joining SDSU means becoming part of a vibrant academic community committed to excellence, innovation, and social responsibility. The College of Arts and Letters offers a dynamic and collaborative environment where your expertise in event coordination will empower the success of critical academic and advancement initiatives. If you are a seasoned event professional ready to contribute your skills to a prestigious institution with a robust support system, this opportunity offers a meaningful and rewarding career path at the intersection of education and community engagement.