Meetings and Special Events Assistant

The University of Michigan's University Unions (UU) is a dynamic, multifaceted organization dedicated to fostering community building and belonging among the campus population. Integrating three student unions—the Michigan Union, Michigan League, and Pierpont Commons—along with the Center for Campus Involvement, Campus Information, Palmer Commons (the academic meeting and dining facility), and Close collaboration with Conference & Event Services and Michigan Dining, UU serves as a vibrant hub for student engagement and customer-focused service on campus. The University Unions operates with a substantial budget of approximately 20 million dollars and employs over 50 regular staff members in addition to 250 student staff, underscoring its significant role within the university structure and its commitment to providing top-tier services and experiences.

The role of Meetings and Special Events Assistant contributes directly to this mission by working within the UU Operations team and reporting to the Manager of Event Operations. This full-time, regular, nonexempt position is situated on the Ann Arbor campus and offers a salary range between $39,650 and $45,600 based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and education. The position embraces onsite work with the possibility of hybrid or remote work arrangements at the department's discretion. The Meetings and Special Events Assistant plays a pivotal role in maintaining operational excellence in guest services, event setup, and audiovisual equipment management, ensuring that every event within the university's facilities runs smoothly and meets high standards.

This position’s responsibilities include acting as the Manager on Duty, which involves regular rounds of the building to ensure facility security, safety, and communication with key stakeholders during events. The assistant is accountable for setting up, testing, and operating audiovisual equipment, as well as handling furnishings for meetings and events, guaranteeing that client needs and expectations are met while upholding Facility-Use policies. The environment is dynamic, requiring the assistant to facilitate emergency procedures if necessary and address immediate maintenance or custodial concerns rapidly. Additionally, the assistant handles activism-related responses by coordinating with university departments and external agencies to manage disruptions effectively and participate in specialized training sessions focused on emergency planning, de-escalation, and controversial event management.

The role also oversees the inventory and maintenance of audio-visual and digital media equipment, keeping up to date with industry trends to recommend new solutions that enhance guest experiences. Leadership in supervising, hiring, training, and scheduling approximately 15 student staff members is another essential aspect, along with supporting student recognition and development programs.

This job requires a candidate who can navigate change adeptly, lead cross-functional teams effectively, and demonstrate a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. The work schedule includes nights and weekends, necessitating flexibility and a readiness to engage outside traditional hours. Physical requirements include the ability to move or transfer objects weighing up to 50 pounds with assistance and up to 30 pounds without assistance, reflecting the hands-on nature of the work.

The Meetings and Special Events Assistant at University Unions is an integral part of the larger Student Life division, reflecting the university's broad commitment to enriching campus life through exemplary event management and superior service delivery. This opportunity is ideal for professionals who thrive in vibrant, ever-changing environments and who wish to contribute meaningfully to the University of Michigan community through their skills in hospitality, event management, and audiovisual expertise.