Who we are

Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is the first technological research university in the United States. We bring creativity, science, and technology together to address society's greatest challenges. We cultivate exceptional problem-solvers by immersing them in a culture of rigorous inquiry, disciplined practice, and hands-on application. Our strategic plan, RPI Forward, charts a pioneering course for the next era of RPI. Explore the RPI Forward plan. ↗︎

Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, RPI is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world’s fastest supercomputers, and the IBM Quantum System One - the first university-based quantum computer in the world. 

With top notch employee health and retirement benefits, Rensselaer offers its full-time employees a generous paid time off program, tuition remission, and opportunities for career growth. 

Job Summary

The Operations Coordinator will oversee campus, community and corporate events that take place at the Rensselaer Technology Park Campus, most often occurring at Pat’s Barn. The Operations Coordinator will work with campus constituents and external vendors to ensure quality and customer satisfaction of all events.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Minimum of five years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience

Relevant combinations of education, training and experience may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Requires excellent customer service skills
• Requires excellent communication skills
• Ability to operate a personal computer and demonstrate proficiency with word processing and spreadsheet software
• Ability to perform basic mathematical functions
• Requires knowledge of alpha/numeric filing systems
• Ability to compile and manipulate data (MS Access)
• Ability to organize and coordinate special events (from visitors & educational seminars to luncheons & special meetings)
• Ability to function in an office environment and perform a broad range of diverse duties
• Requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills

Representative Job Duties

• Coordinate scheduling of events at Pat’s Barn and process general inquiries, coordinate guest visitation (showings) and provide pre-booking assistance. 
• Ensure client satisfaction with the cleanliness, security, functionality and access to Pat’s Barn before, during and after events. 
• Coordinate all facility maintenance, repair and upgrade activities within Pat’s Barn including but not limited to routine maintenance and repairs, HVAC servicing, janitorial, AV/Internet services, grounds maintenance, seasonal planting & installation of in-house décor. 
• Serve as an emergency contact for Pat’s Barn, routinely in attendance during evening and weekends, supporting external event coordination and problem resolution on an as-needed basis. 
• Monitor the performance of catering contractors with respect to guest satisfaction and ensure all vendors comply with facility operating guidelines. Coordinate guest feedback and identify areas for improvement. 
• Create and maintain guest folio and management database(s) and generate data/lists as necessary. Ensure contracts and insurance requirements are executed and maintained in accordance with Institute policies. 
• Collect signed contracts, guest rental payments and catering commission fees. Produce monitoring reports and identify situations that require additional follow-up. 
• Provide direct assistance, planning and day-of-services for RPI originated events.
• Assist in the planning, coordination and day-of activities for Portfolio-wide events at all/any campus or external venue. 
• Responsible for overall marketing plan and implementation for Pat's Barn, including, but not limited to, social media advertising. 
• Other duties as assigned. 

Shift

Business Hours with weekends or evenings occasionally required

Travel

Driving

Driving a personal vehicle for non-passenger use

Starting Salary/Rate

Expected hiring range: $21.00 - $24.00 per hour

Pay transparency disclosure: The selected candidate’s salary will be determined based on factors that include the available budget, internal equity, and the final candidate’s qualifications, experience, education and other job-related credentials. This hiring range is provided as Rensselaer’s good faith estimate of the expected hiring range at the time of posting.

Application instructions

Follow the on-screen prompts to create a brief online profile. Please be ready to upload your resume and cover letter.

If you need assistance with the online application process, please contact careers@rpi.edu.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Total Compensation and Benefits Information

Rensselaer’s Total Compensation Program is designed to provide stable pay growth, a comprehensive and affordable benefits package, and a comprehensive and affordable retiree medical and prescription plan. Our goal is to provide you and your family with a comprehensive health and welfare program as an umbrella of financial security and protection during your employment. For more information, please visit Benefits | Human Resources (rpi.edu).