Engagement & Operations Coordinator

Under the direction of the Director of Strategic Partnerships and Operations, this position coordinates event logistics and select marketing efforts for the Regional Engagement Center (REC) and University Village (UV), serving as the primary point of contact for groups utilizing these facilities. The role focuses on delivering high-quality event execution, professional on-site support, and targeted marketing for REC- and UV-supported initiatives, with limited assistance with Loper Spirit Shop and UNK Dining promotions as needed. Working closely with the Associate Director of Strategic Partnerships and Operations, this position supports recruitment efforts through event-level coordination while collaborating with university departments, vendors, and community partners to ensure services align with institutional goals and expectations. Work schedule consists of primarily M-F, 8am - 5pm.  Evening and weekends are possible due to event and group reservations and needs.
 
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in related field
Two years of experience in event coordination, marketing, community engagement, customer relations, hospitality, or other related area

• Knowledge of event operations and logistics, including planning, scheduling, room setup, vendor coordination, and on-site event support.
• Strong customer service and relationship management skills, with the ability to serve as a primary point of contact for internal and external clients.
• Ability to assist with and manage administrative and financial processes such as invoicing, billing coordination, and recordkeeping in compliance with university policies and procedures.
• Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, event-driven environment.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with supervisors, colleagues, student employees, vendors, and community partners.

 
 
Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in marketing, business, event management, or hospitality
Five years of experience in event coordination, marketing, community engagement, customer relations, hospitality, or other related area

• Working knowledge of marketing and communication practices, including basic marketing design concepts, event promotion, and coordination with institutional branding standards.
• Experience supporting or coordinating community events, conferences, or programs involving multiple stakeholders.
• Ability to contribute creative ideas for new events, programs, and engagement opportunities, particularly in support of University Village initiatives.
• Experience working in higher education, nonprofit, hospitality, or a related environment with a focus on engagement or operations.
• Familiarity with contracts, vendor relationships, and customer billing processes

 
The ideal candidate is a highly organized, service-oriented professional who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys creating and coordinating events and community programs, supporting partnerships, and engaging with diverse audiences. This individual brings a strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and a collaborative approach to supporting the mission and vision of UNK, Strategic Partnerships and Operations, the Regional Engagement Center, and University Village. The successful candidate is comfortable balancing operational responsibilities with creative contributions and is motivated by delivering high-quality, mission-driven experiences for campus, community, and regional partners
 
HOW TO APPLY:   To be considered for the position, application materials can be submitted at UNK Employment Opportunities before February 18, 2026. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Michael Christen at christenmt2@unk.edu.. Upon a contingent offer of employment, the University of Nebraska will conduct an investigation of employment records, educational records, criminal records, and other records to verify the information provided in your application and/or any additional information you have provided is accurate.  Salaries at the University of Nebraska at Kearney are competitive.  The University provides a flexible benefits program at minimal cost to the employee. NuFlex benefit choices include a Medical Plan and Prescription Drug Program, Vision Care, Dental Plan, LTD, Life Insurance, AD&D Insurance, Dependent Life Insurance, Long Term Care Insurance, and Reimbursement Accounts for Health and Dependent Care.  The Employee and Dependent Scholarship program is also available to eligible employees.  Basic Retirement Plan options include TIAA and Fidelity.