Lead Conference and Event Support Specialist

Leidos

$82K — $149K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • TS/SCI w/ Poly Clearance is required
  • Bachelors Degree with 8+ years of experience, or Masters Degree with 6+ years of experience, or equivalent experience
  • Proven ability to manage multiple complex events simultaneously
  • Strong skills in budgeting, cost control, and vendor contract management
  • Exceptional communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities
  • Proficient in event management platforms and Microsoft Office Suite
  • Willingness to travel for on-site event support as needed

Responsibilities

  • Lead the day-to-day operations at HQ Conference Center and provide support for the Director
  • Plan and execute a range of meetings and events such as conferences and workshops
  • Coordinate logistical elements including venue scouting, catering, and guest services
  • Develop, evaluate, and finalize venue and vendor contracts through RFPs
  • Oversee budget tracking and reconciliation to meet financial objectives
  • Manage vendor relationships to ensure high-quality service delivery
  • Ensure an optimal guest experience through careful planning and communication
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to align on event branding and messaging
  • Utilize event management platforms for logistics and attendee engagement
  • Mentor junior team members involved in event planning
  • Conduct evaluations of events to assess success and areas for improvement
  • Implement required security protocols for sensitive events

Benefits

  • Opportunity for professional growth and development
  • Engagement in a dynamic corporate environment
  • Experience working with diverse, high-stakes events
  • Potential to influence event strategy and management at a high level
  • Participation in an inclusive workplace culture
Full Job Description
We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented LeadConference and Event Support Specialist who is responsible for the day-to-day coordination and technical support of conference rooms, meeting spaces, and event facilities. This role plays a critical part in ensuring seamless scheduling, setup, technology readiness, and customer service for both internal and external events hosted at the conference center.

Primary Responsibilities:
  • Lead for the HQ Conference Center and Support Functions for the Director, also has protocol responsibilities
  • Lead the end-to-end planning and execution of meetings and events including conferences, workshops, off-sites, and client engagements.
  • Lead the coordinating for all logistical elements: venue scouting, site inspections, travel planning, registration, catering, A/V, décor, security, and guest services.
  • Develop and issue Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to venues and vendors; evaluate responses, negotiate terms, and finalize contracts.
  • Oversee budget development, forecasting, tracking, and reconciliation in alignment with financial goals.
  • Manage vendor relationships and performance, ensuring delivery of high-quality services on time and within budget.
  • Ensure a seamless guest experience through proactive planning, clear communication, and exceptional attention to detail.
  • Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to align event objectives, branding, and messaging.
  • Utilize event management and registration platforms to streamline logistics, reporting, and attendee engagement.
  • Provide guidance and coaching to junior team members or administrative staff involved in event planning.
  • Conduct post-event evaluations and report on successes, issues, and recommendations for improvement.
  • Responsible for all Directorate and Organization functions involving the conference center and break-out areas
  • Plans and implements required security protocols for classified conferences and briefings.


Basic Qualifications
  • TS/SCI w/ Poly Clearance is required
  • Bachelors Degree and 8+ years of experience, Masters Degree and 6+ years of experience, or experience in lieu of a degree.
  • Demonstrated success managing multiple complex events simultaneously.
  • Strong understanding of event budgeting, cost controls, and vendor contract management.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficient in event management platforms (e.g., Cvent, Eventbrite, Bizzabo), Microsoft Office Suite, and project tracking tools.
  • Ability to travel for on-site event support as needed.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience managing events in corporate, government, or highly regulated environments.
  • Deep understanding of venue contracts, catering services, and A/V production requirements.
  • Familiarity with event marketing principles and tools.
  • Knowledge of forecasting, workforce planning, or long-term strategic event portfolio management.
  • Experience leading or mentoring a team of planners or support staff.
  • Working knowledge of DEI best practices for inclusive events.


Original Posting:
June 10, 2026

Pay Range:
Pay Range $82,550.00 - $149,225.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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