General Assistant - Conference Planning

Job Description Summary

This is a part-time, grant-funded, Contingent 1, Temporary position, in-person position that will report directly to the Small Farm Program Coordinator and assists with organizing and planning activities to ensure the smooth operation of UMES Extension's annual Small Farm Conference set for October 24-25, 2025.

Responsibilities:

• Leads Logistics Subcommittee (including but not limited to serving as

liaison between Small Farm Coordinator and venue facility manager; room

reservation/assignment; ensure room/area setup according to conference

program schedule and speaker need; identify and communicate resource

needs; securing transportation for off-site farm tours; ensuring each tour

stop is equipped with necessary supplies, ensuring appropriate A/V for

each conference session: provide regular status updates to conference

planning committee) and ensure actions items are carried out within

project deadlines.

• Leads Sponsorship Subcommittee (including but not limited to identifying

and communicating with various agricultural businesses/organizations to

solicit sponsorship support; keep track of confirmed sponsors; track

associated funds and ensure timely deposit; provide regular status updates

to conference planning committee) and ensure action items are carried out

within project deadlines.

• Takes responsibility for Conference Registration table and associated

activities and materials.

• Assists Small Farm Coordinator and Program Management Specialist in

corresponding with identified speakers, vendors, and conference

participants, as needed, including related post-conference activities.

• Perform other conference-related duties as assigned.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma,
• Must possess a valid MD Driver's license
• General use of current computer technology
• Good customer service (verbal and written communication skills)

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to work well independently and with minimal direction.
• Ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to work some evening and Saturday hours.

Minimum Qualifications

EDUCATION:

EXPERIENCE:

OTHER:

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

Ability to read, write and follow instructions. Some positions may require demonstration of specific attributes or abilities to perform assigned work.

OTHER:

Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education or experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 college credits being equivalent to one year of experience.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

N/A

Additional Job Details

Organization's Summary Statement:

The General Assistant for Small Conference Planning assists with organizing and planning activities to ensure the smooth operation of UMES Extension's annual the Small Farm Conference

Physical Demands:

• May require extended periods of standing, bending, sitting at desk.
• May require lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Requires communication with a variety of constituents externally and internally.
• Requires operation of a variety of office equipment.

Preferences:

• Higher education degree
• Some event planning experience

Licenses/ Certifications: N/A

Required Application Materials: Qualified applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and the names of three current professional references (current or past supervisor) including e-mail address, and telephone number (current supervisor will not be contacted without the candidate's prior consent). All applicants must apply using the new online application system. Please visit https://umd.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UMES to apply. The successful candidate must be able to show acceptable documentation establishing the right to accept employment in the United States of America without employer sponsorship.

Best Consideration Date: N/A

Posting Close Date: N/A

Open Until Filled: Yes

Worker Sub-Type

Staff Contractual (C1) (Fixed Term)

Salary Range

$16.75

EEO Statement

UMES is an EEO/AA employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, age, sex, color, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or political affiliation. Minorities, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate must be able to show acceptable documentation establishing the right to accept employment in the United States of America without employer sponsorship.

Diversity Statement

The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) is an equal access, equal opportunity institution fully committed to diversity in education and employment. All students, employees, and the campus community at UMES are valued, respected, and have the opportunity to receive an equitable experience in an inclusive, welcoming environment of openness and appreciation.

Title IX Statement

It is the policy of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) to comply with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination (including sexual harassment and sexual violence) based on sex in the University's educational programs and activities. Title IX also prohibits retaliation for asserting or otherwise participating in claims of sex discriminations or harassment.