Meeting/Special Events Planner - Quick Hire!

The University of Michigan's Institute for Social Research (ISR) is a renowned institution dedicated to advancing social science research through comprehensive data collection and analysis. Within ISR, the Survey Research Center (SRC) operates to support various research initiatives by providing expert survey research operations. The Survey Research Operations (SRO) unit within SRC specifically manages the logistics and implementation of large-scale surveys and events. This prestigious academic environment fosters collaboration, innovation, and excellence, positioning itself as a leader in social research both nationally and internationally. The University of Michigan, located in Ann Arbor, MI, is a world-class university recognized for its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and supporting a culture of respect and authentic collaboration. The University offers a collaborative work atmosphere, competitive compensation, and opportunities for career advancement in a dynamic academic setting.

We are currently seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Meeting/Special Events Planner to join the Data Collection Operations unit within the Survey Research Operations team at the Institute for Social Research. This full-time, regular, nonexempt position is based on-site at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and comes with an attractive salary range of $47,500.00 to $56,000.00 annually. The role reports to the Meeting and Special Events Manager and plays a critical part in managing training, meeting, and event logistics for both local and decentralized national data collection efforts.

The Meeting/Special Events Planner will be responsible for planning and coordinating logistics for training sessions, meetings, and special events, emphasizing thoroughness, organization, and professionalism. This role requires preparation of meeting agendas and materials, drafting clear and precise correspondence, management of training inventories, and coordination with vendors and internal departments for venue arrangements. The successful candidate will oversee event budgets, contracts, and expenses, ensuring financial stewardship in all planning activities. Additionally, this position entails arranging travel for staff, functionally supervising temporary staff, and occasionally working evenings, weekends, and traveling overnight to various event locations.

The role demands a flexible schedule and a capacity to work independently with initiative and adaptability to changing priorities. The Planner must be capable of handling physical aspects of the job, such as transporting equipment weighing up to 50 pounds and staffing event check-in desks for the duration of shifts. Excellent communication skills, confidentiality adherence, and collaboration abilities are essential to thrive in this dynamic, fast-paced role.

This position offers a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse team committed to delivering high-quality survey research operations that contribute to impactful social science insights. The candidate will benefit from the University of Michigan's comprehensive benefits package including generous time off, retirement plans, health and life insurance, disability coverage, and flexible spending accounts. The University also supports hybrid or remote work arrangements when applicable but currently requires on-site work during the initial orientation period.

At the University of Michigan, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workforce that reflects diverse backgrounds and perspectives, aligning with our mission to serve the people of Michigan and maintain academic excellence. Prospective candidates should be prepared for a role that is both challenging and rewarding, contributing significantly to the Institute for Social Research's mission through meticulous event and meeting management.

bachelor's degree in related field or equivalent combination of education and experience
minimum of two years of meeting and event planning experience
proficiency in MS Office and Google Workspace
flexible availability to work early mornings, evenings, and weekends
ability to travel and transport equipment up to 50 pounds
capacity to work with minimal supervision and demonstrate initiative
excellent communication skills
ability to maintain confidentiality
willingness to work occasional evenings, weekends, and travel
ability to staff event check-in desks for entire shifts
physical ability to move throughout event venues
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