Specialist, Event Services, Part-time, Temporary

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 Services

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP

Reports to Manager, Event Services

POSITION SUMMARY

The Event Services Specialist supports the setup, breakdown, transportation, cleaning, organization, storage, and routine maintenance of Garden-owned event and operational equipment. This 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. Responsibilities 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 also 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.

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.

Equipment Care 

• Transport, organize, store, clean, and perform routine care of 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.
• Inspect equipment before use, report damage or repair needs, and remove unsafe equipment from use in accordance with Garden procedures. 
• 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.
• Identify operational challenges, address routine issues within assigned responsibilities, and refer concerns requiring additional support to the appropriate supervisor.
• Assist with maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming Garden environment.

Special Projects 

• Support exhibit load-ins and load-outs, film shoots, and other special operational projects as assigned.
• Monitor assigned areas during events and special projects, identify operational or safety concerns, and promptly notify the appropriate supervisor.
• Communicate project-related information and Garden procedures professionally to contractors, vendors, guests, volunteers, and staff, referring questions outside the position’s authority to the appropriate supervisor. 

Safety & Stewardship

• Follow Garden policies, established safety procedures, and operational standards.
• Use required personal protective equipment and operate equipment only after completing applicable training and receiving authorization.
• Promptly report hazards, incidents, equipment damage, maintenance needs, and policy concerns to the appropriate supervisor.
• 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.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• 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.

Preferred

• 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.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

The following describes the physical demands and work environment associated with the essential functions of this position. Essential functions may be performed with or without reasonable accommodation. 

• This position requires physical work for the majority of every shift.
• 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.
• Frequently move tables, chairs, tents, umbrellas, staging, fencing, décor, and other operational equipment throughout the property.
• Stand, walk, bend, kneel, squat, climb, reach, and perform repetitive physical tasks for extended periods.
• Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, wind, humidity, and direct sunlight.
• Navigate uneven terrain, hills, pathways, gardens, and work areas throughout the property.
• Safely operate carts, utility vehicles, dollies, pallet jacks, and other assigned equipment after completing required training and receiving authorization.
• Regularly work evenings, weekends, holidays, and nighttime events.
• Work in a dynamic environment where priorities may change quickly based on operational needs or event requirements.

Compensation & Classification

• Temporary, Part-Time, Non-Exempt
• $20.00 per hour
• Anticipated assignment end date: February 28, 2027
• Evening, weekend, and holiday availability is required.  

Success in This Role

Success in this role means:

• Event setups, breakdowns, and venue conversions are completed safely, accurately, and on time.
• Equipment, event spaces, and storage areas are clean, organized, and ready for use.
• Staff and departments receive reliable, responsive support, and operational concerns are communicated promptly.
• The Event Services team contributes to a welcoming guest experience while protecting Garden resources and plant collections. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

South Coast Botanic Garden is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and celebrate the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each employee brings to our organization. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.