University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America’s Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

Posted Job Title

Community Care Event Observer (Temporary Non-Exempt)

Job Profile Title

Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt

Job Description Summary

The Event Observer (EO) team is comprised of part-time, temporary staff within University Life. Event Observers play an important role in efforts to manage risk, reduce harm, and foster a sense of belonging among all members of our community. This is primarily done through on-the-ground support of student social events, which includes communicating with event hosts, helping to ensure guests’ safety, troubleshooting any issues, and documenting observations or concerns. EOs address and shut down social events that are escalating in risk and/or events that were not registered with University Life. EOs work closely with Penn Police while on shift and may collaborate with other offices, such as the Office of Fraternity Sorority Life and the Center for Community Standards Accountability, to provide more details following an event.

EO shifts are typically from 9:30 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. and may be scheduled on Thursday, Friday, and/or Saturday nights as well as other times when events are planned (e.g., during the day on Saturday). Shifts begin during the week of New Student Orientation and end around Commencement. EOs work in pairs and are required to complete training before attending their first shift.

This is a temporary, non-exempt, nine-month term position.

Job Description

Duties while on shift:

Visit registered social events within your assigned zone to ensure events are running smoothly, adhering to relevant laws and policies, and guests/community members are safe

Assist event hosts (students) with troubleshooting any issues, as needed

Be aware of any unregistered event activity and/or behavior that poses a risk to our community and be prepared to intervene in accordance with EO training

Shut down and report unregistered events, as needed

Communicate to Penn Police and/or designated staff any major concerns, issues, or problems at an event(s) or while roaming your assigned zone

Qualifications:

H.S. Diploma or GED required; Bachelor's degree preferred

Previous experience in a similar role preferred

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Student Services

Pay Range

$7.25 - $35.00 Hourly Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, as well as internal and market factors and grade profile.

Affirmative Action Statement Penn adheres to a policy that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected class.

Special Requirements Background check may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

The University of Pennsylvania's special character is reflected in the diversity of the Penn community. We seek talented faculty and staff who will constitute a vibrant community that draws on the strength that comes with a substantive institutional commitment to diversity along dimensions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, veteran status, interests, perspectives, and socioeconomic status. Grounded in equal opportunity, nondiscrimination, and affirmative action, Penn's robust commitment to diversity is fundamental to the University's mission of advancing knowledge, educating leaders for all sectors of society, and public service. The University of Pennsylvania prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected class.