Community Engagement Specialist

Overview

Eastern Washington University's School of Business seeks a Community Engagement Specialist to enhance and nurture meaningful partnerships between the university and the broader community. Reporting to the Associate Director of Community Engagement, this role serves as a pivotal resource representing the Community Engagement Office. Responsibilities include coordinating service-learning programs, assessing outcomes, fostering volunteer involvement, and facilitating connections amongst students, faculty, and local organizations to promote civic participation. Additionally, this role supports the EWU Aspire program, linking students with K-12 mentoring opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and sustain partnerships with community groups, nonprofits, government entities, and businesses to identify collaboration possibilities.
• Engage students to strengthen the university-community relationship by acting as a conduit for volunteerism, internships, and career-related projects.
• Represent EWU at events, meetings, and service activities within the community.
• Devise initiatives to increase student and faculty participation in community engagement programs.
• Plan and oversee community-centered programs, events, and service projects aligning with EWU’s engagement objectives.
• Provide administrative support including front desk coordination for the Community Engagement Office.
• Monitor the EWU Aspire program to ensure student involvement in mentoring and leadership experiences with K-12 students.
• Track participation metrics and program impacts; gather data to evaluate effectiveness and guide future planning.
• Assist in grant writing and fundraising to enhance program funding and outreach.
• Create marketing content such as newsletters, promotional materials, and social media posts to showcase community engagement efforts.
• Manage and update the community engagement website with current service opportunities.
• Prepare reports and presentations on community engagement outcomes for university leaders and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in community development, social work, public administration, education, or related disciplines.
• At least two years of relevant experience in community outreach, program coordination, or related areas.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
• Experience managing programs, events, or volunteer activities.
• Capable of working independently and collaboratively across diverse groups.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and social media tools.
• Student-centered with strong dedication to student success.
• Adaptable approach supporting accessibility and inclusivity for students, faculty, staff, and the public.

Preferred Attributes

• Master's degree in a related field.
• Experience within higher education institutions.
• Knowledge of service-learning and civic engagement best practices.
• Spanish language proficiency is advantageous.

Additional Information

The position is full-time (100%) based in Cheney, WA, with typical hours Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm. Event and program schedules may require work during early mornings, evenings, nights, and weekends. Salary ranges from $50,626 to $55,000 annually, depending on qualifications. EWU offers comprehensive benefits including health, disability insurance, retirement plans, paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, tuition waivers for employees and eligible dependents, discounted sports tickets, campus facilities access, and free local bus transportation.

EWU promotes an inclusive, equitable environment and encourages individuals from all backgrounds to apply. Background checks are mandatory due to the nature of work involving vulnerable populations. Candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S. without visa sponsorship. Compliance with EWU's immunization policies is required. Training will be provided post-hiring via online platforms.

Applicants must submit a detailed cover letter addressing qualifications, a chronological resume with references, and respond to specific application questions. Interviews might be conducted virtually requiring proficiency with video communication tools.

Commitment to Diversity and Tribal Acknowledgement

EWU recognizes and honors the traditional land of the Spokane Tribe and other local tribes while fostering a campus culture enriched by Native American heritage. The university strives to reflect and repair historical injustices through inclusivity and respect for tribal sovereignty.

Equal Opportunity

EWU prohibits discrimination based on numerous protected categories consistent with federal and state laws. Employment is contingent upon background clearance, adherence to immunization protocols, and workplace guidelines.