Events Coordinator, Commencement, Student Affairs
Current UC employees must apply internally via SuccessFactors
Next Lives at the University of Cincinnati
Founded in 1819, the University of Cincinnati ranks among the nation’s best urban public research universities. Home to more than 53,000 students, 12,000 faculty and staff, and over 350,000 living alumni, UC, a Carnegie 1 institution, combines research prowess with a physical setting The New York Times has called “the most ambitious campus design program in the country." UC's momentum has never been stronger as the anchor of the Cincinnati Innovation District, the oldest cooperative education (co-op) program in the country with students earning $88.8 million annually through paid experiences, an academic health system, and as a member of the Big 12 Conference. The university contributes $10.6 billion in economic impact to the city and $22.7 billion to the state of Ohio. At UC, next is all of us. Learn more at uc.edu.
UC is a mission-driven organization where we are committed to student success and positively transforming the community through scholarship and service. We thrive on innovation, making an impact, and fostering an environment where staff and faculty are key contributors to UC’s success.
Job Overview
The University of Cincinnati Commencement Office is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Events Coordinator to support the planning and execution of high-impact university ceremonies and other events. As part of a team that produces signature events such as Doctoral Hooding, Commencement ceremonies, Bearcats Kickoff [Convocation], and the Memorial Service, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to milestone moments for thousands of students and guests. The ideal candidate will be passionate about event logistics, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and bring creativity and precision to every stage of the planning process. These events serve as defining moments in the university experience, leaving lasting impressions on students, families, and the broader Bearcat community.
Essential Functions
- Assist with the planning and execution of high-profile university ceremonies, including commencement, convocation, memorial service, and other campus-wide events.
- Coordinate all logistical aspects, including but not limited to facility set-up and teardown, scheduling, signage, etc.
- Manage multiple projects simultaneously within tight deadlines while ensuring consistent and proactive communication throughout each phase.
- Assist with oversight of the execution, deliverables, and timeliness for all types of projects.
- Serve as part of event management team providing on-site support.
- Collaborate with faculty, staff, campus departments, and external vendors.
- Serve as the point of contact for designated vendors, facilitating scheduling and logistical coordination.
- Maintain detailed records of event logistics.
- May hire, train, and schedule student employees.
- Perform related duties based on department needs.
- This job description can be changed at any time.
Required Education
- Bachelor's Degree
- Five (5) years of relevant work experience and/or other specialized training can be used in lieu of education requirement.
Required Experience
One (1) year of experience in communications, event planning, and/or social media management.
Additional Qualifications Considered
- Minimum of 2 years experience coordinating events or managing logistics in a professional setting.
- Familiarity with commencement or large-scale ceremonial events.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.
- Must demonstrate strong communication skills by providing timely updates and clear communication regarding project status and event logistics.
- Availability to work evenings and weekends as needed.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Application Process Information
For a complete application please include a cover letter addressed to the attention of Melva Karnes, Director, Commencement
Physical Requirements/Work Environment
- Office environment/no specific unusual physical or environmental demands.
- Sitting - Often
- Repetitive hand motion (such as typing) - Continuously
- Hearing, listening - Continuously
- Standing - Often
- Talking - Often
- Walking - Often
- Bending - Seldom
- Climbing stairs/ladders - Seldom
- Pulling, pushing - Seldom
- Reaching overhead - Seldom
- Lifting - up to 50 pounds - Seldom
Compensation and Benefits
UC offers an exceptional benefits package designed to support your well-being, financial security, and work-life balance. Eligibility varies by position and FTE. Highlights include:
Comprehensive Tuition Remission
UC provides tuition remission for you and your eligible dependents, covering tuition costs for nearly all undergraduate and graduate programs offered by the university.
Robust Retirement Plans
As a UC employee, you won’t contribute to Social Security (except Medicare). Instead, you’ll choose between state pension plans (OPERS, STRS) or an Alternative Retirement Plan (ARP), with UC contributing 14–18% of your salary based on position.
Real Work-Life Balance
UC prioritizes work-life balance with a generous time-off policy, including:
Vacation and sick time
11 paid holidays and additional end-of-year paid time off (Winter Season Days)
6 weeks of paid parental leave for new parents
Additional Benefits Include:
- Competitive salary range of $45,000 - $49,000 based on experience
- Comprehensive health coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription)
- Flexible spending accounts & wellness programs
- Professional development & mentorship opportunities
For questions about the UC recruiting process or to request accommodations with the application, please contact Human Resources at jobs@uc.edu.
Equal Opportunity Employer. Building a workplace where all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment, including Individuals with Disabilities and Protected Veterans.
REQ: 100064
Events Coordinator, Commencement, Student Affairs
Cincinnati, OH, US
Nearest Major Market: Cincinnati
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