Community Engagement Specialist
Eastern Washington University is a regional, comprehensive public university with over 10,000 students. As the region’s polytechnic institution, EWU is recognized for hands-on learning that leads to in-demand careers. The main campus is located in Cheney, WA, with additional programs in downtown Spokane and select locations throughout the state.
About the role
This position reports to the Associate Director of the Community Engagement Office and is responsible for strengthening and fostering meaningful partnerships between the university and the broader community. The Community Engagement Specialist will coordinate service-learning initiatives, assess student learning outcomes, facilitate volunteer engagement, develop programs connecting students, faculty, and community organizations, and help coordinate the EWU Aspire program.
Responsibilities
- Community Engagement & Outreach (25%)
- Build and maintain relationships with community partners, nonprofits, government agencies, and businesses to identify collaboration opportunities.
- Serve as a liaison between EWU students, faculty, and community organizations to facilitate volunteerism, internships, and career-centered learning projects.
- Represent EWU at community meetings, events, and service initiatives.
- Develop and implement strategies to increase student and faculty participation in community engagement programs.
- Program Development & Coordination (40%)
- Organize and manage community-based programs, events, and service projects in alignment with the university’s engagement goals.
- Provide administrative assistance for the Community Engagement Office, including front desk coverage coordination.
- Coordinate the EWU Aspire program and other service-learning initiatives.
- Assess student learning outcomes from community engagement activities.
- Volunteer & Student Engagement (25%)
- Facilitate volunteer engagement and recruitment for university and community events.
- Develop programs that connect students, faculty, and community organizations to promote civic engagement and social commitment.
- Build and sustain ongoing relationships with students to enhance the student/university connection.
- Administrative & Reporting (10%)
- Track and report on community engagement metrics and program outcomes.
- Maintain records of partnerships, volunteer hours, and program participation.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in community development, social work, public administration, education, or a related field.
- Minimum two years of experience in community engagement, outreach, program coordination, or a related field.
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
- Experience managing programs, events, or volunteer initiatives.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and social media platforms.
- Student-centered with a passion for student success.
- Demonstrated ability to apply a responsive and flexible approach that supports universal access for students, faculty, staff, and the public.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in a related field.
- Experience working in a higher education setting.
- Familiarity with service-learning and civic engagement best practices.
- Bilingual fluency, with Spanish preferred.
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and disability insurance.
- Retirement plan with employer contributions.
- Generous vacation and sick leave accruals, plus 13 paid holidays per year.
- Tuition waiver for employees and eligible family members.
- Discounted EWU sports tickets and access to campus workout facilities at a minimal fee.
- Free transportation via STA buses.
Pay
$50,626 (minimum) – $55,000 annually. Starting salary within this range is dependent on education, experience, and skills.
Schedule
Full-time (100%), 12-month appointment. Regular schedule is Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, with occasional early mornings, evenings, weekends, and nights required for events.
Background check required. Position contingent upon successful completion of a background check prior to employment. Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.