Summer Positions
2025 Conference Services
Summer Staff Position
Summer Job Opportunity: Conference Manager (Housing Included!)
Are you looking for an on-campus position this summer that offers **free housing** and valuable professional experience? We have the perfect opportunity for you!
Position: Conference Manager
Department: Conference Services
Location: Illinois Wesleyan University Campus
Term: May to the first week of August
Hours: 29 - 37.5 hours/week
Conference Manager - 8 Roles Available
About the Role:
We’re seeking dynamic, highly motivated, and well-rounded Illinois Wesleyan students
to join our Conference Services team as a Conference Manager. In this exciting role, you’ll assist with the planning, coordination, and execution
of summer camps, conferences, and university events. This isn’t your typical summer
job—get ready for hands-on experience that will expand your professional skill set
and prepare you for a variety of career paths. Expect to stay active, as you’ll be
walking around campus regularly to ensure everything runs smoothly!
As a Conference Manager, you’ll be at the heart of the action, contributing to the
success of our events and working alongside a collaborative team that emphasizes teamwork,
customer service, and communication. You’ll have the chance to develop valuable organizational,
leadership, and management skills while making an impact on campus and the broader
IWU community.
Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
- Team Collaboration: Work as an integral part of the Conference Services team, managing summer camps and collaborating with 8-10 co-workers while being supported by primary staff.
- Event Operations: Manage key event logistics for 2-4 clients, including housing, catering, meeting space, and technology coordination. Oversee front desk operations and assist with check-ins and check-outs.
- Inventory & Catering Coordination: Maintain accurate records for linens, dining, and catering. Assist with inventory management, linen delivery/pick-up, and AV setups across campus.
- Customer Service: Provide exceptional service to clients, vendors, and participants, assisting with inquiries, maintenance requests, and lockouts.
- Specialization Area: Oversee a specific area of responsibility during your internship, developing expertise and leadership within your focus. Areas may include: scheduling, dining, finance, key administration etc.
- Logistics & Coordination: Ensure seamless communication with clients, manage check-in materials, housing assignments, and organize welcome packets.
- Check-In & Check-Out: Supervise conference participant check-ins/outs and guide team members through procedures.
- Emergency & Maintenance Support: Respond to urgent maintenance requests and serve as first contact for staff presence.
- Financial & Administrative Duties: Create detailed invoices and handle other assigned tasks as needed.
Requirements:
- Eligibility: Open to current Freshmen, Sophomores, and Juniors (Spring ’25).
- Commitment: This position runs from early May to early August, with an expected commitment of 29-37.5 hours per week.
- Flexibility: Must be adaptable and available for shifts at varying times, including evenings and weekends. Schedules are provided 1-2 weeks in advance.
- Work Environment: Active, fast-paced role with frequent walking and interaction with a variety of campus departments and external partners.
What You’ll Gain:
- Hands-On Experience: Develop key skills in event management, team leadership, communication, and customer service.
- Professional Development: Boost your resume with practical experience that applies across industries.
- Campus Connection: Build stronger ties with the IWU community and gain a deeper understanding
of university operations.
How to Apply:
Option 1: Submit your application via **Handshake** (attach a cover letter, resume, and one professional reference). Conference Manager
Option 2: Email your application to conferences@iwu.edu with a cover letter, resume, and one professional reference.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews are expected to begin soon.
**Pre-employment screening** is required for this position.
Dates to Remember:
- Application period will end on April 1st, 2025.
- Review of applications will begin immediately and interviews are expected to start in March 2025.
- A group interview will be held in the end of March, 2025 (for those to whom it is offered).
- Hiring notifications are estimated to be sent by Mid April, 2025.
Additional Information:
- The final candidate will pass a pre-employment background investigation.
- If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at conferences@iwu.edu or 309-556-3100.
- The Conference Services office is located at the Memorial Center, by the Dugout, between ORL and Campus Safety offices.
- We will attend the Career Fair organized by the Career Center on March 5th at the Shirk Center. Feel free to stop by and ask all of your questions!
