Event Coordinator

Descanso Gardens Foundation•La Canada Flintridge, CA

24d•Onsite

About The Position

The Event Coordinator provides day-of coordination and oversight for special events and programs at Descanso Gardens, including meetings, retreats, memorial services, receptions, performances, public programs, and film shoots. This highly visible role works directly with staff, clients, guests, members, trustees, external partners, and vendors. The position is part-time, non-exempt, and has a variable schedule of up to 25 hours per week, including evening and weekend hours. Weekly hours are determined by the Garden Operations Field Manager based on institutional needs, and some weeks may have no scheduled hours. Compensation is up to $20.00 per hour. Applicants should submit a letter of interest and resume in MS Word or PDF format to [email protected], with “Event Coordinator 2026” in the subject line. Applications are accepted until the position is filled. No phone calls, please.

Requirements

At least 1 year of customer experience.
Excellent communication skills.
Highly developed organizational skills and excellent attention to detail.
Self-motivation, integrity, honesty, and a strong work ethic.
Ability to respond flexibly and effectively in a dynamic work environment.
Ability and willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Professionalism, judgment, and disposition to interact effectively with guests, team members, members, trustees, volunteers, and vendors.
Ability to use standard computer communication tools, including email, and basic knowledge of Google Sheets and Google Docs.
Valid California driver's license.
Ability to walk to locations within the Gardens that are not accessible by motor vehicle.
Ability to perform physical work, including moving tables and chairs and lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds.
Ability to walk and/or stand for extended periods.

Nice To Haves

At least 1 year of event production or coordination experience.
Bilingual ability.

Responsibilities

Act as the onsite program lead when a program staff member is absent during programming.
Verify that event furniture and equipment placement and counts match approved diagrams, and work with staff to make adjustments as needed.
Follow the event master timeline and communicate holds, delays, or changes.
Coordinate and assist with equipment and gear load-in and guest shuttling.
Greet and direct vendors and contractors.
Receive rental equipment deliveries.
Coordinate event and program load-in and load-out.
Remain onsite during events and programs as needed to address questions and special needs and ensure compliance with Garden policies and procedures.
Provide customer service to clients and event participants.
Address customer concerns regarding events and work to resolve issues.
Perform other duties as assigned.