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.

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 :

Preferences :

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.

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.