Event Operations Specialist, Temporary

Open 16d

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 a powerful example of environmental renewal.

From the Dorothy and John Bohannon Rose Garden to the Dorothy and Allen Lay Staghorn Fern Collection and immersive seasonal exhibits, the Garden offers guests unique opportunities to engage with nature. With continued growth and exciting new developments ahead, this is an exciting time to join a dynamic and evolving organization.

South Coast Botanic Garden fosters a workplace culture where strategic focus and cultural health go hand in hand. Team members are collaborative, adaptable and committed to supporting the Garden’s mission and guest experience.

POSITION TITLE

Specialist, Event Operations

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP:

Reports to Lead, Event Operations and Manager, Assets & Event Operations

Position Summary

The Event Operations Specialist is responsible for supporting the successful setup, strike, movement, cleaning, organization, storage, and maintenance of Garden-owned event and operational assets. This role is critical to ensuring the Garden is prepared to deliver exceptional guest experiences every day.

This is a highly physical, hands-on position requiring manual labor throughout the workday. Specialists spend the majority of their time moving equipment, setting up and breaking down event spaces, cleaning and organizing work areas, transporting materials across the property, and maintaining operational readiness. The work is performed primarily outdoors in a living botanical collection and requires working in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, wind, and direct sunlight.

The Event Operations Specialist also supports Garden operations during public and private events by monitoring assigned areas, ensuring Garden policies and operational standards are followed, identifying operational issues, and communicating concerns to leadership as needed.

Working under the direction of the Lead, Event Operations and Manager, Assets & Event Operations, this position requires flexibility, teamwork, strong work ethic, and a willingness to perform physically demanding work in support of the Garden's mission.

This is an active, outdoor position. Candidates should expect to spend the majority of each shift performing physical work rather than desk-based tasks.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Event Support & Logistics

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 efficiently and safely.
Clean event spaces before, during, and after events.
Support exhibit installations, rentals, public programs, and organizational initiatives.
Ensure all event spaces are clean, organized, safe, and guest-ready.
Perform physically demanding work throughout each shift while maintaining a positive and professional attitude.

Asset Management

Transport, organize, store, and maintain operational and event equipment.
Load and unload equipment from storage areas and utility vehicles.
Return equipment to designated storage locations while maintaining organization and accountability.
Maintain clean, safe, and organized storage spaces.
Perform routine inspections of equipment and report maintenance or repair needs.
Assist with inventory counts, asset tracking, and equipment audits.

Operational Support

Provide operational support to departments across the organization.
Respond to operational requests as directed by leadership.
Assist with daily facility readiness and grounds preparation.
Help identify and resolve operational challenges in a timely manner.
Support organizational initiatives, exhibits, and special projects.
Assist with maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming Garden environment.

Special Projects

Support exhibit load-ins, film shoots, and other special operational projects as assigned.
When assigned, monitor designated areas of the Garden to help ensure work is being completed safely and in accordance with Garden policies, operational procedures, and project expectations.
Consistently follow all Garden policies, safety procedures, and operational standards while performing assigned duties.
Observe and promptly report operational concerns, safety hazards, maintenance issues, or policy concerns to the appropriate supervisor.
Help protect Garden assets, facilities, equipment, and plant collections while supporting operational activities.
Communicate professionally with contractors, vendors, guests, volunteers, and staff while representing the Garden in a positive manner.

Safety & Stewardship

Follow established safety procedures and operational guidelines.
Utilize equipment safely and responsibly.
Report hazards, incidents, or maintenance concerns promptly.
Help maintain safe workspaces and event environments.
Demonstrate stewardship of Garden assets, facilities, and resources.
Respond professionally to routine guest questions and direct concerns to the appropriate staff member.

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