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University of California, Berkeley

Events Specialist (6292U) - #82790

University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States, 94709

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Events Specialist (6292U) - #82790

About Berkeley The University of California, Berkeley is dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom and belonging makes it a special place for students, faculty and staff. We are a world‑leading institution known for academic and research excellence, public mission, diverse student body, and commitment to equity and social justice.

Departmental Overview The Events Specialist works within the administrative cluster supporting East Asian Languages & Cultures, the Group in Buddhist Studies, South and Southeast Asian Studies, the Group in Asian Studies, the Group in Ancient History and Mediterranean Archaeology, Middle East Languages and Cultures, and Ancient Greek and Roman Studies. The cluster includes approximately 60 senate faculty, 60 lecturers, 8–10 postdocs, and 10–15 visiting scholars.

Position Summary The Events Specialist provides supervision and guidance for events in the CASMA Cluster. Under the direction of the Cluster Manager, the specialist plans and organizes cluster events, manages logistics (facilities, caterers, vendors), coordinates technical support, and facilitates communication and services with program sponsors, speakers, and event staff. The role also creates and distributes advertising materials, manages donor relations (gift acknowledgements, big‑give solicitations, newsletters/alumni letters), and performs related duties.

Responsibilities

Ensure smooth‑running events and promptly resolve problems with tact and discretion.

Schedule and organize departmental‑sponsored events, defining budget, scope, and delegation of responsibilities.

Plan annual events such as the Fall Welcome, Commencement, and colloquium series, keeping them on schedule and within budget.

Define event goals, recommend budget projections, arrange room rental, audio/visual equipment, catering, publicity, staffing, and parking.

Collaborate with the communications coordinator and planners to schedule events on the master calendar and minimize conflicts.

Work with vendors to ensure delivery of goods and services and secure campus approvals (alcohol permits, EH&S food permits, noise permits).

Solicit feedback after events and produce summary notes to improve future planning.

Oversee sponsorship support requests and ensure financial support remains within the annual budget.

Identify, manage, and direct all vendors including caterers, florists, photographers, videographers, audio/visual technicians, and security.

Serve as a resource and trainer for department event coordinators, lead training, and offer online resources.

Recruit, train, and oversee student event assistants.

Create and expand web‑based tools and resources for event management and streamline processes.

Partner with cluster leadership to raise funds, engage donors, and highlight department needs.

Build and maintain relationships with donors, schedule thank‑you communications, and coordinate event invitations.

Collaborate with campus staff and faculty in planning fundraising cycles, matching‑gift programs, and donor‑focused events.

Develop personalized experiences for donors and optimize outreach strategies with alumni.

Manage the annual spring commencement ceremonies.

Strategize events to extend community, including donors and alumni relations.

Research and recommend vendors, negotiate prices, and evaluate venues.

Assess honoraria, travel reimbursements, and entertainment expenses with accounting units.

Prepare payment requests, serve as cardholder, track payments, and ensure policy compliance.

Schedule special use of cluster‑controlled spaces and serve as backup for one‑time room requests.

Create and distribute flyers and newsletters.

Maintain event inventory, focusing on economical and environmentally‑friendly options.

Serve as emergency backup for front office support.

Participate in employee development and training programs.

Required Qualifications

Thorough knowledge of event planning and public relations concepts and practices.

Good judgment in decision‑making and event management.

Skill in meeting budget and time constraints.

Organizational and project management skills for high‑quality events.

Excellent donor stewardship skills.

Highly developed interpersonal communication skills, including political acumen.

Excellent verbal and written communication with diverse populations.

Strong judgment, decision‑making, and problem‑resolution skills.

Knowledge of volunteer recruitment, supervision, motivation, and evaluation.

Proven ability to multitask and manage priorities.

Experience maintaining productivity within a broad scope of responsibilities.

Ability to complete large volumes of diverse tasks efficiently.

Ability to give clear directives and use independent judgment.

Bachelor’s degree in a related area and/or equivalent experience/training.

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge of crowd management, safety protocols, security, and emergency procedures for gatherings.

Salary & Benefits The budgeted annual salary range is $74,700.00 – $95,000.00. This is a full‑time (40 hrs/week) career position eligible for UC Benefits, and it is an exempt, monthly‑paid role.

How to Apply

Submit your resume and cover letter.

Other Information

Not a visa opportunity; no H‑1B sponsorship.

Eligible for up to 40% hybrid work; arrangements are determined with the supervisor.

Conviction History Background This is a designated position requiring fingerprinting and a background check due to the nature of the job responsibilities.

Misconduct Final candidates must disclose any misconduct decisions, allegations, or ongoing proceedings within the last seven years, per SB 791 and AB 810 Misconduct Disclosure Requirements.

Equal Employment Opportunity The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

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