À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ

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 IWU community.

To ensure Conference Managers are best able to help IWU'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 IWU 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.