Program Specialist

Job Title: Program Specialist, Meetings & Events

Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid)

Pay Rate: $25-$35/hour

Job Type: Contract-to-Hire

Position Overview

Our client is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Program Specialist, Meetings & Events to support the planning, coordination, and execution of meetings, conferences, training sessions, and special events. This hybrid role is based in Washington, DC and offers an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys managing logistics, working with diverse stakeholders, and ensuring seamless event experiences from start to finish.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate logistics for in-person, virtual, and hybrid meetings and events.
• Manage event registrations, attendee communications, agendas, materials, and meeting documentation.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for vendors, venues, catering services, audiovisual providers, and other event partners.
• Support event planning timelines, project tracking, and execution of program deliverables.
• Coordinate travel arrangements, hotel accommodations, and transportation for speakers, guests, and staff as needed.
• Assist with budget tracking, purchase orders, invoices, and expense reconciliation.
• Develop and distribute event communications, meeting reminders, and post-event surveys.
• Provide onsite support during events, including registration management, troubleshooting, and attendee assistance.
• Maintain accurate program records, databases, and reporting metrics.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure successful program and event outcomes.
• Support additional program administration and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• 2+ years of experience in meetings, events, program coordination, conference planning, or administrative support.
• Experience coordinating multiple projects and managing competing priorities.
• Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams.
• Experience with event management platforms such as Cvent, Eventbrite, or similar systems is a plus.
• Ability to travel locally for onsite event support as needed.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to problem-solve and adapt in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Skills

• Meeting and conference planning
• Vendor and stakeholder management
• Budget tracking and reporting
• Event logistics and execution
• Written and verbal communication
• Project coordination
• Time management and multitasking
• Customer service and relationship building

What We Offer

• Competitive pay of $25-$35/hour
• Hybrid work schedule in Washington, DC
• Opportunity to convert to a permanent employee
• Collaborative and mission-driven work environment
• Exposure to high-profile meetings, conferences, and special events

This role is ideal for a candidate with event coordination, conference planning, program support, or administrative experience who enjoys delivering exceptional meeting and event experiences.