Specialist, Event Services, Part-time, Temporary
About The Position
The Event Services Specialist supports the setup, breakdown, transportation, cleaning, organization, storage, and routine maintenance of Garden-owned event and operational equipment. The position helps prepare event spaces, support daily operations, and deliver exceptional guest experiences. This active, hands-on role involves physical work for most of each shift and is performed primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions. Duties include moving equipment, preparing and converting event spaces, transporting materials throughout the property, and maintaining clean and organized work and storage areas. Under the direction of the Manager, Event Services, the Specialist monitors assigned areas during public and private events and special projects, identifies operational or safety concerns, and communicates issues to the appropriate supervisor. Success requires reliability, flexibility, teamwork, and attention to detail. The position is temporary, part-time, and non-exempt, with compensation of $20.00 per hour. The anticipated assignment end date is February 28, 2027. Evening, weekend, holiday, and special-event availability is required. South Coast Botanic Garden’s mission is to connect all to the wonders of nature and create offbeat experiences that inspire stewardship and sustainability. The 87-acre destination is an oasis of curated gardens and natural landscapes built atop a reclaimed landfill, serving as an example of environmental renewal. The Garden fosters a collaborative and adaptable workplace culture focused on its mission and guest experience.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Ability to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Valid driver’s license and a driving record meeting Garden requirements for assigned driving duties.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong work ethic and attention to detail.
- Strong communication and customer service skills.
- Ability to learn Garden operations and consistently apply established policies, safety procedures, and event standards while working independently in assigned areas.
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as needed.
- Ability to regularly lift, carry, and move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds and push or pull loaded carts and other operational equipment; use team assistance or appropriate equipment for heavier or bulky items.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, squat, climb, reach, and perform repetitive physical tasks for extended periods.
- Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions and navigate uneven terrain, hills, pathways, gardens, and work areas throughout the property.
- Ability to safely operate assigned equipment after completing required training and receiving authorization.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in event facilities, logistics, hospitality, parks, recreation, or related fields.
- Experience with event setups and strikes.
- Experience operating utility vehicles, carts, or related equipment.
- Experience working in outdoor environments.
Responsibilities
- Move, transport, load, unload, and stage event equipment throughout the Garden.
- Set up and break down tables, chairs, umbrellas, tents, fencing, signage, lighting, décor, staging elements, and other event-related equipment.
- Prepare event and program spaces according to established layouts and operational standards; perform room flips and venue conversions safely and efficiently.
- Clean event spaces before, during, and after events, and ensure spaces are organized, safe, and guest-ready.
- Support exhibit installations, rentals, public programs, organizational initiatives, film shoots, and other special operational projects.
- Transport, organize, store, clean, and perform routine care of operational and event equipment; return equipment to designated storage locations and maintain clean, organized storage spaces.
- Inspect equipment before use, report damage or repair needs, remove unsafe equipment from use in accordance with Garden procedures, and assist with inventory counts, asset tracking, and equipment audits.
- Provide operational support to departments, respond to requests as directed, assist with daily facility readiness and grounds preparation, and address routine issues within assigned responsibilities.
- Monitor assigned areas during events and special projects, identify operational or safety concerns, and promptly notify the appropriate supervisor.
- Communicate project information and Garden procedures professionally to contractors, vendors, guests, volunteers, and staff; refer questions outside the position’s authority to the appropriate supervisor.
- Follow Garden policies, safety procedures, and operational standards; use required personal protective equipment and operate equipment only after applicable training and authorization.
- Report hazards, incidents, equipment damage, maintenance needs, and policy concerns; maintain clear pathways and safe work and event spaces.
- Protect Garden assets, facilities, equipment, plant collections, and other resources during operational activities.
- Respond professionally to routine guest questions and direct concerns to the appropriate staff member.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
