Events Specialist

The University of Kentucky is a prestigious public research university located in Lexington, KY, known for its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and providing a vibrant campus experience. The university operates numerous facilities designed to support student activities, faculty programs, and campus events, fostering a dynamic and welcoming environment for its diverse community. Among its many facilities, the Gatton Student Center serves as a central hub for student life and campus engagement, hosting a wide variety of events and programs throughout the academic year. This environment reflects the university's dedication to creating inclusive, accessible spaces that facilitate learning, collaboration, and social interaction among students, faculty, staff, and visitors. As a significant contributor to campus culture, the Student Center requires skilled professionals who ensure event spaces are optimally prepared and managed to meet diverse needs safely and efficiently.

The University of Kentucky is seeking a full-time Events Specialist to join its Gatton Student Center team. This staff position offers an hourly wage ranging from $15.30 to $24.50, reflective of experience and qualifications, and is classified at grade level 40. The role is essential for supporting the successful execution of meetings, events, and campus programs by coordinating room setups, equipment arrangement, and event support services throughout the Student Center as well as select additional campus locations. The Events Specialist will be responsible for the physical preparation of event spaces, including setting up and breaking down rooms in accordance with event specifications and safety standards. This position requires regular lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling of objects up to or exceeding 50 pounds, and involves standing or walking while moving materials. The work schedule primarily consists of afternoon and evening shifts from 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM on weekends and three weekdays, though hours may vary depending on workload and event timing.

In this role, the Events Specialist will work closely with the Event Management Office, collaborating to ensure events proceed smoothly and are well-supported from setup through completion. Duties include transporting furniture, staging, and equipment; loading and unloading event materials; directing and assisting student and temporary staff in setup and breakdown procedures; and monitoring event spaces for readiness, safety, and compliance with facility guidelines. The specialist is not only a hands-on operational contributor but also a key customer service representative, interacting with event organizers, campus departments, and guests to provide exceptional service. The position offers a chance to gain diverse experience across event operations, facilities management, logistics, and customer service within a dynamic university setting.

Candidates must bring at least three years of experience in event setup, facilities operations, logistics, customer service, or related fields. Strong attention to detail, excellent communication and teamwork skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment are crucial for success. Physical capability to safely maneuver event materials and a commitment to professionalism, safety, and customer service excellence are also necessary.

Joining the University of Kentucky as an Events Specialist provides an engaging and rewarding employment opportunity. This role contributes directly to creating successful, memorable campus events that enhance student and community engagement. Employees benefit from a collaborative team environment focused on supporting campus life, opportunities for skill development, and comprehensive benefits alongside competitive pay. The University of Kentucky prides itself on fostering an inclusive, tobacco- and drug-free campus community that values health, safety, and equal opportunity for all employees. This role represents a chance to make a meaningful impact in a vibrant academic community during a period of growing campus activity and events.