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Conference Service Positions:

2026 Conference Manager

 

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 Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ community.

To ensure Conference Managers are best able to help Ä¢¹½´«Ã½'s summer guests, housing is provided in the Gates Apartments for all full-time Conference Managers during the dates of employment.

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.
• 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, technology, key administration, weddings, social media, intern housing, etc. 
• Logistics & Coordination: Ensure seamless communication with clients, manage check-in materials, housing assignments, and organize welcome packets. Maintain accurate records for linens, dining, and catering. Assist with inventory management, linen delivery/pick-up, and AV setups across campus.
• Check-In & Check-Out: Supervise conference participant check-ins/outs and guide team members and guests through procedures.
• Emergency & Maintenance Support: Serve as first point-of-contact for last-minute or emergency requests. 
• Financial & Administrative Duties: Create detailed invoices and handle other assigned tasks as needed.

Requirements:

• Eligibility: Open to current Freshmen, Sophomores, and Juniors (as of spring ’26). 
• Commitment: This position runs from mid 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 Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ community and gain a deeper understanding of university operations.
  

How to Apply:

• Email your application to conferences@iwu.edu with a cover letter, resume, and one professional reference (on-campus reference preferred).
• Submit your application via Handshake with a cover letter, resume, and one professional reference.

Additional Information:

• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.
• The final candidates must pass a pre-employment background check as well as a campus conduct check.
• If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at conferences@iwu.edu or 309-556-3100 or visit us in the Memorial Center, by the Dugout, between ORL and Campus Safety offices.