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.
Description of duties
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.
Key Responsibilities
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.
Core Competencies
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
Education & Experience Requirements
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.
Compensation and Benefits package include:
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.
Location: 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.
Culture: 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.
Please apply online: www.spie.jobs and include a resume & cover letter, indicating how your experience & qualifications match the requirements & why you will be successful in this position.
All materials must be received by 5 p.m. 6/5/2026.
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.
SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics, was founded in 1955 to advance light-based technologies.Serving 255,000 constituents from 183 countries, the not-for-profit society advances emerging technologies through interdisciplinary information exchange, continuing education, publications, patent precedent, and career and professional growth.SPIE annually organizes and sponsors approximately 25 major technical forums, exhibitions, and education programs in North America, Europe, Asia, and the South Pacific, where more than 35,000 scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs showcase the latest innovations across a wide range of technologies.SPIE publishes the SPIE Digital Library, the world’s largest collection of optics and photonics applied research with more than 500,000 papers from SPIE journals, conference proceedings and presentations, and eBooks. Research spans biomedicine, communications, sensors, defense and security, manufacturing, electronics, energy, and imaging.In 2020, SPIE provided over $5.8 million in community support including scholarships and awards, outreach and advocacy programs, travel grants, public policy, and educational resources.Membership inclu...des Fellows and Senior Member programs. The Society has named more than 1,500 SPIE Members as Fellows since 1955, and implemented its Senior Member program in 2008.The SPIE awards program serves to recognize outstanding contributions from individuals throughout the scientific community.The SPIE international office is located in Bellingham, Washington and the SPIE Europe office is located in Cardiff, Wales.