University Program Specialist - Journey

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill (NC); On-site; USD 70,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is seeking a University Program Specialist and Events Manager in Chapel Hill, NC. The role oversees major Water Institute initiatives and coordinates the UNC Water and Health Conference, hosting 600–1,000 attendees from multiple countries.

The position reports to the WI Director, collaborates with leadership and external partners, and supervises work-study students and temporary staff.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and one year of experience related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning and execution of the UNC Water and Health Conference and related WI priorities.
• Coordinate meetings, workshops and special events aligned with WI goals.
• Provide liaison support to external advisory board, adjunct faculty and stakeholders, mentoring student workers.

Skills

Event management

Organizational skills

Team leadership

Budget management

MS Office

CMP certification

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Word

Excel

Outlook

PowerPoint

SharePoint

Job description

Posting Information

Department: ESE - Water Institute-463002

Career Area: Public Relations/Communications/Marketing

Is this an internal only recruitment?: No

Posting Open Date: 08/11/2026

Application Deadline: 08/18/2026

Position Type: Permanent Staff (SHRA)

Position Title: University Program Specialist - Journey

Salary Grade Equivalent: NC12 / GN11

Working Title: University Program Specialist and Events Manager

Position Number: 20065176

Vacancy ID: P021274

Full-time/Part-time Permanent/Time-Limited: Full-Time Permanent

Hours per week: 40

Work Schedule: Monday- Friday, 8:00am- 5:00pm

Work Location: CHAPEL HILL, NC

Position Location: North Carolina, US

Hiring Range: $70,000- $72,000

Pay Band Information: To learn more about the pay band for this branch and role, please see the Career Banding rates spreadsheet.

Notice to Applicants

This position is not eligible for H-1B sponsorship.

Position Summary Information

Be a Tar Heel!

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities . Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC -Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package , paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose Of Organizational Unit

Our goal, is to contribute to a more water secure by advancing scientific research, developing policy, and using evidence to inform practice. The Institute also serves as a platform for mobilizing the knowledge, expertise, and resources that exist across UNC to address critical water and sanitation challenges within the U.S and abroad. The Water Institute includes a core staff and researchers and a network of experts and faculty members throughout the University that lead and drive research on areas related to access to safe drinking water and sanitation, including health impact trials research and implementation science.

Position Summary

Reporting directly to the Director of the Water Institute (WI), the University Program Specialist and Events Manager provides programmatic, operational, and event management support for major Water Institute initiatives and strategic priorities. This position collaborates closely with WI leadership, staff, students, and external partners to coordinate and deliver the UNC Water and Health Conference, a nationally and internationally recognized conference in its 16th year that hosts approximately 600-1,000 attendees representing dozens of countries. The event’s success will depend on the planning, coordination, and execution carried out by the incumbent.

In addition to leading conference planning and execution, this position coordinates smaller meetings, workshops, and special events aligned with WI priorities; supports strategic planning, communications, and program development efforts; and serves as a liaison to the Water Institute’s external advisory board, adjunct faculty, and other stakeholders. The position also provides oversight and direction to work‑study students, volunteers, and temporary assistants supporting programmatic and event-related activities.

Minimum Education And Experience Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and one year of experience related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Management Preferences

• Event management experience, preferably in higher education, with a proven track record of delivering high-stakes, high-impact events involving complex planning and notable participants.
• Exceptional organizational and attention-to-detail skills, with a commitment to efficient and effective event management through clear communication, active listening, and cultural and contextual sensitivity.
• Superior collaboration, teamwork, and team leadership skills, with the ability to effectively engage and coordinate diverse stakeholders.
• Experience managing event budgets and contracts, with strong business and administrative acumen.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and event registration software; Certified Meeting Professional ( CMP ) certification preferred.

Required Licenses/Certifications

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Position/Schedule Requirements

Special Instructions

Quick Link

https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/323702

Contact Information

Office of Human Resources Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at [phone] or send an email to [e-mail]

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.