Project Specialist II

Do you have a creative mindset and the ability to organize and implement events that are welcoming, inclusive, and bring people together? Do you have a passion for nightlife and entertainment trends? If this is you, then consider applying to be a Project Specialist II with the City of Champaign Planning and Development Department.

This is a full-time, limited position from May 20 – October 20, 2024. The position is eligible for paid leave, including sick, personal, vacation, and City holidays. Additional benefits include health, dental, life, and vision insurance.

Responsibilities of Position

The Project Specialist II will plan, organize, and implement a variety of entertainment events from concerts to festivals to comedy and more in the new downtown entertainment district, a pedestrian-only, community gathering space and stage that will be programmed with live programming from 10 pm to 1 am every Friday and Saturday night from May 31 to October 5, 2024. They will partner with local businesses, sponsors, community stakeholders and City departments to enhance the overall downtown nightlife experience.  The Project Specialist II will lead event marketing and promotion, budget oversight, and gathering feedback from attendees and stakeholders.

The salary is $30.06 per hour, plus an excellent fringe benefits package.  Applications must be submitted online to champaignil.gov/jobs no later than Sunday, April 21, 2024, for first consideration. Position will remain open until filled. 

The City’s mission is to provide responsive, caring, cost-effective service in partnership with our community. The following values guide our work: Personal Integrity, Responsibility, Respect, Teamwork, Results. The City of Champaign is committed to promoting a work environment and a community that values and supports diversity and inclusion. The City of Champaign is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning, Event Management, Hospitality, Communications, Marketing, or related field.
• Experience in event coordination/planning, program administration, management, marketing, public relations, communications, or related area.
• An equivalent combination of work experience and education demonstrating the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered.
• Current state-issued driver’s license and good driving record.
• Physical condition necessary to perform the duties of the job including working in crowds and walking or moving around for long periods of time and lift up to 50 pounds, with or without accommodation. Work may involve exposure to high noise levels and other outdoor environmental elements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Nightlife or entertainment industry event planning experience.
• Experience involving a high level of public contact.

Drug screening and driving abstract will be required.