Creative Food Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TED is a global nonprofit dedicated to spreading ideas that matter - through talks, conferences, and experiences that connect and inspire. Our events bring together diverse voices to share ideas that shape the future.

TED is an equal opportunity employer and contractor engager committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and provide reasonable accommodation throughout the hiring process.

You bring deep expertise in the hospitality and events industries, and a reputation built on curiosity, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. You thrive on innovation, you're energized by a new challenge, and you deliver exceptional results under pressure. With strong ties across the food, beverage, and events worlds, you manage many stakeholders at once with calm, detail-driven precision.

In this role, you'll curate and produce a wide range of bespoke food and beverage activations, partnering with local institutions and hidden gems to bring San Diego's diverse and eclectic culinary scene to TED. The result: one-of-a-kind, custom experiences for attendees at the San Diego Convention Center, all crafted to safeguard TED's brand integrity.

The ideal candidate pairs strong local knowledge with impeccable organizational skills and an eye for the bigger picture, making you an invaluable contributor to the TED team.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and execute unique, one-of-a-kind experiences, including securing and overseeing food and beverage in-kind partners and vendors (food trucks and pop-up activations, juice bars, cocktail bars, premium culinary experiences, and more).
• Develop and bring to life creative food and beverage concepts for parties and events.
• Own every aspect of vendor relationships: research and development, contract negotiation, quality control, change management, invoicing, and day-to-day communication.
• Work within the County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health and Quality requirements, ensuring compliance throughout planning and execution.
• Maintain accurate, consistent tracking and data entry within a bespoke online management system.
• Ensure all internal and external communications align with TED's brand and identity guidelines.
• Serve as a subject-matter expert in events and food and beverage, providing strategic direction through the lens of TED's brand and values.
• Collaborate across teams and pitch in as needed to ensure the success of the role and broader event goals.
• Handle sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism.
• Maintain a flexible schedule, with availability for extended hours, evenings, and weekends during pre-conference and onsite phases.
• Oversee your program onsite in San Diego during load-in, conference days, and load-out.

• Education & Experience: Degree or diploma in event management, hospitality, project management, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Event Management: 3+ years of event management (or similar) experience, with a track record of increasing responsibility and leadership.
• Food & Beverage Planning: Extensive hands-on experience planning food and beverage for events of all scales, across settings such as hotels, off-site venues, convention centers, and restaurants.
• Certifications: A California Food Handler Card (or ServSafe certification) is an asset.
• Communication: Superior verbal and written communication, paired with strong business acumen.
• Problem Solving: Sharp analytical, strategic, and creative problem-solving skills, with a proactive, solution-oriented mindset.
• Grace Under Pressure: Thrives in high-pressure environments, managing competing deadlines and multiple projects with minimal supervision.
• Organization & Detail: Highly organized with a keen eye for detail.
• Technical Skills: Proficient in MS Office, macOS, and Google Workspace.

• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• This position requires regular on-site presence at event venues.
• Ability to travel internationally is required. 

About TED

TED is a global nonprofit dedicated to spreading ideas that matter - through talks, conferences, and initiatives that foster curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Our events bring together diverse voices to share insights, drive innovation, and inspire action toward a better future.

To apply: Please submit your resume and cover letter telling us why you'd like to join our team. Only applications with cover letters will be considered.

Location: San Diego, CA

Project Fee: $20K - $25K

Project Length: September 2027 - March 2027.

TED Conferences LLC is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the person assigned to this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the person.