Conference Manager Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Strategic Analysis, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Returning Applicant? Login Now If you need assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment with us, please email or call: 703-527-5410. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis. Conference Center Manager (Secret #26-085) Job Code:26-085
Location:Arlington, VA
FT/PT Status:Full Time
Required Clearance:Ability To Obtain a Secret Clearance Assistant Conference Center Manager Arlington, VA | Government Conference & Event Operations Strategic Analysis, Inc. (SA) is an industry-leading government professional services firm headquartered in Arlington. Founded in 1986, SA employs approximately 200 professionals who provide scientific, technical and programmatic support to our national defense government clients. We have a dedicated Conference Services Division made up of over 20 meeting professionals including conference center specialists and government meeting and event planners. We are seeking an experienced, highly organized, and customer service-oriented Conference Center Manager to lead daily operations at a government conference facility supporting high-visibility meetings and events. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced environments, enjoys solving problems in real time, and takes pride in creating seamless experiences for our clients and guests. What You’ll Do: You’ll oversee the day-to-day operations of a government conference center hosting more than 250 meetings and events annually, including classified and unclassified meetings, executive meetings, trainings, and conferences. Key responsibilities include: • Manage daily conference center operations, scheduling, and event execution • Serve as the primary point of contact for government clients, vendors, and internal teams • Coordinate meeting logistics including room setups, A/V support, catering, signage, security requirements, and technology needs • Develop and maintain event calendars, scheduling systems, and space utilization plans with high accuracy • Supervise conference center staff and coordinate vendor support • Support VIP visits and executive-level government meetings • Partner closely with facilities, IT, security, custodial, and food service teams to ensure smooth operations • Troubleshoot audiovisual issues in real-time with professionalism and urgency • Ensure compliance with ADA requirements, facility policies, and government security procedures • Help maintain a polished, client-ready conference environment at all times • Assist with budgeting, purchasing, expense tracking, and operational planning • Establish and maintain service standards and operating procedures • Support classified meetings and ensure security protocols are followed • Conduct orientation training for new government employees • Collaborate with client team to organize ad hoc events at the conference center. What We’re Looking For: We’re looking for someone who is proactive, detail-oriented, and calm under pressure. The ideal candidate enjoys both operational leadership and hands-on event execution. Qualifications include: • Bachelor’s degree in related field • 8+ years of experience in conference centers, hospitality, event operations, hotels, or government facilities • Ability to obtain and/or maintain a DoD Top Secret clearance • Strong knowledge of conference/event operations, audiovisual coordination, and hospitality best practices • Ability to work well under pressure, determine priorities and produce results • Excellent organizational and communication skills • Strong customer service ethic. • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, SharePoint and event scheduling or conference management software • Experience managing multiple priorities and high-volume event schedules simultaneously • Ability to supervise staff and coordinate across multiple operational teams • Ability to work flexible hours as needed to support early morning, evening, or occasional weekend events Preferred but not required: • Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) certification • Knowledge of federal conference and meeting protocols Work Environment & Schedule: This is not a typical desk job — and that’s part of what makes it exciting. Every day is different, and successful event execution requires teamwork, flexibility, and attention to detail. You should be comfortable with: • Multi-tasking • Early mornings, occasional evenings, and occasional weekend support • Event setup activities including moving tables, chairs, signage and event materials (occasionally 40+ pounds) Why Join Organization? Our Conference Services team includes experienced meeting planners, conference coordinators, and event professionals who genuinely enjoy working together and supporting meaningful government missions. Our government clients are primarily in the Department of Defense scientific research and development field and the work we do is genuinely impactful and rewarding. We offer a collaborative and supportive team culture with opportunities for growth and increased responsibility. If you enjoy creating exceptional experiences, solving problems in real time, and being part of a mission-driven team, we’d love to hear from you. Strategic Analysis, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer and is committed to non-discrimination in employment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religions, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, disability (physical or mental), age (40 or older), protected veteran status, genetic information (including family medical history) or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy includes but is not limited to the following employment actions: recruitment, hiring, firing, promotion, demotion, compensation, fringe benefits, training, mentoring and sponsorship programs.