The Events Coordinator will play a key role in enhancing the the Smithsonian Astrophysical Obervatory (SAO) visibility and impact through the effective management of internal and external events.  

Duties

Plan, coordinate, and execute various internal and external events, including meetings, conferences, workshops, lectures, press releases, visits by key partners, dignitaries and/or delegations, internal engagement and team building events, and public education and outreach events. Work with internal departments and external groups to ensure seamless event briefing and logistics, including but not limited to venue and other vendor selections, catering, AV, transportation, accommodations, registration, and communications. Serve as a liaison between SAO leadership and internal and external stakeholders and attendees, including SAO staff, other Smithsonian Institution offices and units, other scientific institutions and government agencies, sponsors, and community organizations.  Provides efficient and effective communication among SAO and these groups. Develops and manages event budgets, tracks expenses, and provides regular financial updates. Coordinate event promotion, including the coordination of invitation design and distribution of invitations, press releases, and social media content as well as follow-up with attendees. Evaluate event success and provide post-event analysis, including but not limited to participation and engagement reports identifying opportunities for improvement and growth.

Requirements

• Pre- and post-appointment background
• May be required to serve a one-year probationary period.
• Direct Deposit/Elect Funds Transfer required for salary payment.
• U.S. citizenship

Qualifications

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-9 in the federal sector.  Specialized experience would include proven experience in event planning, coordination and communication along with knowledge of federal regulations and guidelines related to event management and communication.  A degree in event management, communications, market or a related field is preferred but not required.    OR Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree. OR 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree. OR a combination of education and experience. For information on qualification requirements, see Qualification Standards Handbook for General Schedule Positions viewable on the web at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0300/miscellaneous-administration-and-program-series-0301/ Part-time and/or unpaid experience related to this position will be considered to determine the total number of years and months of experience. Be sure to note the number of paid or unpaid hours worked each week.

Education

A degree in event management, communications, market or a related field is preferred but not required. 

Contacts

• Address SMITHSONIAN Human Resources 60 Garden Street Cambridge, MA 02138 Mail Stop 17 Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138 United States
• Name: Judy Gallagher
• Phone: 617-495-7374
• Email: [email protected]