(Temporary) Winter Lights Installer

University of North Carolina System•Asheville, NC

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The North Carolina Arboretum is seeking several team members to join the Winter Lights Installation Crew for the 2026 show. This role involves executing the design plan created by the Winter Lights Design Team. Crew members will report to and take direction from the Special Events Supervisor and/or Installation Lead for daily tasks and workflow. Preference will be given to applicants who can commit to the entire project duration, including Installation, Show Operation/Maintenance, and De-Installation. The position requires the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, with flexibility for weather conditions and other Arboretum property usage. This role runs from August through February, with 40 hours per week, and potential flexibility during the Show Operation phase. The hourly pay is $17, depending on experience. Successful candidates who complete the entire project may have opportunities for continued work with the Special Events/Exhibits installation crew.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent.
Evening availability.
Some weekends and holidays may be required.
A valid driver's license as TNCA vehicles will be utilized.
Willingness and ability to work outdoors, in all weather.
Ability to lift at least 50lbs repetitively (ideally at least 75lbs).
Ability to operate machinery used in landscaping, grounds maintenance, and basic utility maintenance.
Ability to safely work at heights, including climbing ladders, working in trees, and occasionally from the bucket of a boom lift.
Knowledge of standard office technology.
Courteous verbal communication skills for interaction with both internal and external publics.
Ability to manage priorities in response to work flow, and work independently based on provided instructions.
Ability to work within a team to accomplish tasks.
This position will primarily work outdoors and be subject to environmental work conditions including cold temperatures.
This role will also include physical demands such as sitting, standing, walking, lifting up to 50 lbs., reaching, carrying, pushing and pulling.
The crewmember will also frequently climb ladders.

Nice To Haves

Ability to commit for the duration of the project, including Installation, Show Operation, and De-Installation.
Electrical work, including safety procedures and power distribution.
Carpentry/experience building props.
Experience with holiday light shows and/or programmable lights.
Forklift Certification.
IT knowledge/creative troubleshooting ability.

Responsibilities

Install lights of various types (string lighting, net lights, RGB pebble lights, spotlights, etc.) using various techniques to meet aesthetic quality and design goals.
Build and install show elements using various methods and materials (wood, metal, plastic, etc.) with guidance from the Installation Manager/WL Design Team.
Install technology such as light projectors and RGB/programmable light displays with training.
Ensure all installations are properly waterproofed and safety proofed under the direction of the Special Events Supervisor.
Open and close the show nightly, troubleshooting and communicating with staff to ensure displays function properly and the show operates smoothly.
Operate technology like light projectors and RGB/programmable light displays as part of running the show.
Perform quality checks, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting before and during event hours.
Monitor radio/walkie-talkie communication during event hours and respond to reports of lighting or display issues.
De-install lights and show elements, including proper storage and inventory management.
Assist with inventory updates and management throughout the install, show, and strike phases.
Follow written and oral instructions.
Manage priorities in response to workflow and work independently.
Work within a team to accomplish tasks.