Career and Member Services Manager

Join our team, sharing the latest scientific advances in light-based technologies from around the world, including biomedical optics, astronomy, lasers, solar, nanotechnology, and more! Make a difference by doing important work with a successful, international not-for-profit organization.

Full-time, 40 hours per week position, non-exempt, with flexible work hours.

The Career and Member Services Manager is responsible for the conceptualization, development, and execution of innovative programs, resources, and events that support member engagement and career growth.

This role identifies emerging member needs, designs new initiatives, and manages program delivery across conferences and year-round offerings. Success in this role requires a strategic, data-driven mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and member value.

• Design, develop, and manage member services and career development programs delivered at SPIE conferences and throughout the year, including program strategy, budgeting, promotion, and evaluation.
• Lead the evolution of the SPIE Student Chapter program, including new initiatives, resources, and events to foster growth, engagement, and long-term success.
• Serve as staff liaison to the Early Career and Student Subcommittee, supporting collaboration and program alignment.
• Establish and monitor metrics to evaluate program effectiveness and guide continuous improvement efforts.
• Identify emerging member and workforce development needs and lead the design and launch of new programs, pilots, and services to address those needs.
• Partner cross‑functionally with internal teams (e.g., marketing, events, and technology) to ensure successful program delivery and promotion.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proven ability to meet deadlines and deliver results in a fast‑paced environment.

• Experience in program management, member services, education programs, or a related field.
• Strong business process improvement and project management skills.
• Proficiency with CRM systems (e.g., Microsoft Dynamics), databases, email tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Technical aptitude and interest in AI and emerging technologies.
• Ability to troubleshoot and solve problems, particularly in live event settings.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Self-starter who takes initiative and drives results.
• Demonstrated cultural awareness and commitment to customer service and inclusivity.
• Bachelor’s degree in business administration or entrepreneurship preferred.
• Experience in project management and/or business development, including program design, proposal development, and launching new initiatives from concept through execution.
• Experience interacting with international constituents; second language a plus but not required.

• Competitive wages, annual discretionary bonus. Pay Range $38.61/hr to $56.73/hr.
• Medical, dental & vision benefits provided (100% employer paid premium for the employee, 75% employer paid premium for the dependents).
• Defined retirement contribution: SPIE provides an automatic 5% contribution plus SPIE offers up to 5% matching contributions and 25% vesting each year, 100% vested after 4 years.
• Paid Time Off plan begins at 31 days per year.
• Health savings accounts are partially funded by SPIE.
• Flexible spending accounts for dependent care and dental/vision expenses available.
• Employee life & disability insurance provided, dependent life insurance & Long Term Care insurance available through payroll deduction.
• Many learning & development opportunities including tuition reimbursement & leadership development.

Physical work location in Bellingham, WA. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. The employer will not sponsor applicants for work visas.

SPIE recognizes that diversity and inclusion drive innovation, excellence, and new knowledge. Bringing together people from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives makes us stronger and supports our mission. We offer a collaborative work environment and strive to create a culture of belonging for all our employees.

SPIE is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. SPIE provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, color, age, religion, protected veteran or disability status, or genetic information.