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Event Program Director Jobs in Tacoma, WA (NOW HIRING)

Youth Program Director

Sumner, WA · On-site

$23.70 - $28.20/hr

As the Youth Program Director, you will be responsible for building relationships, instilling ... events open to all members. This position has a special focus on youth sports programs.

Aquatics Program Director

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$23.06 - $23.56/hr

Design, implement, and evaluate programs, activities, and events. * Commitment to maintaining consistency and safety measures performed by lifeguards, maintaining quality swim lessons, water fitness ...

Events Manager

Bellevue, WA · Remote

$120K - $135K/yr

This role will report to our Senior Director, Events & Sponsorships. Primary Responsibilities ... Understand the scope and operational requirements for each event/program, including timelines ...

Arts Director

Gig Harbor, WA · On-site

$23.70 - $28.67/hr

Coordinate use of facilities for program activities and events. * Direct and supervise program ... activities to meet the needs of the community and fulfill YMCA objectives. * Compile program ...

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Event Program Director information

See Tacoma, WA salary details

$31.7K

$84K

$147.1K

How much do event program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for event program director in Tacoma, WA is $83,976.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,900.00 and $99,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an event program director?

Event Program Directors are professionals responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing the overall program and logistics of events such as conferences, festivals, corporate meetings, or cultural gatherings. They work closely with clients and internal teams to ensure that every aspect of an event runs smoothly, from scheduling speakers and selecting venues to managing budgets and supervising event staff. Their role demands excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills to deliver successful and memorable events that meet client and attendee expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an event program director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Event Program Director, you need expertise in event planning, budget management, and team leadership, typically supported by a degree in hospitality, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with event management software, project management tools, and sometimes certifications like CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) are commonly required. Outstanding organizational skills, creativity, and the ability to communicate and negotiate effectively with stakeholders set top candidates apart. These skills are vital for ensuring seamless event execution, stakeholder satisfaction, and achieving organizational goals.

What are some common challenges event program directors face when coordinating large-scale events, and how can they be managed effectively?

Event Program Directors often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines, balancing multiple stakeholder expectations, and adapting to last-minute changes. Effective communication, early contingency planning, and leveraging a strong support team are key strategies for navigating these issues. Building strong vendor relationships and utilizing event management software also help streamline operations and reduce stress, ensuring a smoother execution from planning through post-event evaluation.

What is the difference between Event Program Director vs Event Coordinator?

AspectEvent Program DirectorEvent Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees overall event planning, manages teams, and ensures program successHandles logistics, vendor coordination, and on-site event management
Required SkillsLeadership, strategic planning, budgetingOrganization, communication, problem-solving
Work EnvironmentHigh-level planning, team management, strategic meetingsOn-site event setup, vendor interactions, day-of coordination
Common CertificationsEvent planning certifications, project managementEvent planning certifications, hospitality training

The main difference is that the Event Program Director focuses on overall event strategy and leadership, while the Event Coordinator handles the day-to-day logistics and execution. Both roles require strong organizational skills, but the Director typically has broader responsibilities and oversight.

$23.70 - $29.76/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is hiring an Aquatics Program Director at our Tom Taylor Family YMCA location.

As the Aquatics Program Director, you will be responsible for organizing, monitoring, supervising, and maintaining high quality member-focused aquatics programs. If hired, you will provide leadership, instruction and motivation for program participants through innovative program development, evaluations, and ongoing training of staff and volunteers. The Aquatics Program Director is also responsible for developing and supervising the Aquatics Department team with commitment to provide a quality experience to staff and members.

Compensation:$23.70 to $29.76 per hour(Compensation is determined based on relevant experience, skills, and qualifications, with most new hires starting between the minimum and midpoint of the posted wage range)


Position Type:Full-Time, 40 Hours Per Week


Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision benefit plan options YMCA paid Life and Long-term Disability Insurance
  • Opportunity to participate in the YMCA 403(b) retirement saving plan. After 2 years of Full-Time employment, the YMCA will contribute 8% of your monthly earnings
  • Accrual of 15 days of paid vacation (vacation accruals increase with years of service)
  • 8 paid Holidays/Floating Holidays per year
  • Paid Sick Leave accrued at 1.23 hours for every 40 hours worked per year
  • Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), Digital mental health counseling platform, Wellness program and LifeMart employee discount center
  • Professional training, education and certification opportunities
  • 20% discount on YMCA programs, Child Care services, and merchandise
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility for Full-Time employees


Qualifications, Skills and Abilities:

  • Minimum of 18 years of age or older.
  • Must possess and maintain YMCA of the USA Lifeguard Supervisor certification.
  • Must possess and maintain YMCA Lifeguard Certification, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, AED, First Aid and Oxygen Certifications.
  • Minimum of six months of aquatics experience including 100 hours of lifeguard service is required.
  • Bachelor's degree and/or two years related knowledge and experience that include supervision, fiscal management, program development, staff, and volunteer development (preferred).
  • Positive attitude and previous experience with diverse populations.
  • The demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and possess excellent interpersonal skills. Proven supervisory/management skills.
  • Must be able to pass Background and Reference checks (in accordance with the WA State Fair Chance Act).
  • Committed to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
  • Able and willing to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day, and other online and in-person training as required.

Essential Functions:

  • Design, implement, and evaluate programs, activities, and events.
  • Commitment to maintaining consistency and safety measures performed by lifeguards, maintaining quality swim lessons, water fitness, swim team programs, and adaptive programs.
  • Establish new program activities and expand programs to meet the needs of the community in accordance with Association strategic and operating plans.
  • Monitor daily pool operations to adhere to all state, local and YMCA health and safety regulations.
  • Build quality relationships with members and provide leadership and hands-on instruction in groups and on a one-to-one basis.
  • Create and schedule lifeguards, swim classes, water fitness classes, and swim team practices and meets.
  • Recruit, hire, train, develop, schedule and direct staff and volunteers as needed.
  • Develop strategies to motivate staff and achieve goals.
  • Conduct lifeguarding, swim instruction, First Aid and CPR trainings.


At the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties, our primary objective is to empower people, inspire action, and strengthen the communities we call home. Join our team and support the Y's efforts to connect all people to their full potential and purpose. To apply visit our website atwww.ymcapkc.org.
The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is committed to diversity and inclusion throughout our organization and is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled

Aquatics Program Director Job Description

Position Summary

The Aquatics Program Director organizes, monitors, supervises, and maintains high quality member-focused programs. Provides leadership, instruction and motivation for program participants through innovative program development, evaluations, and ongoing training of staff and volunteers. Provides a quality experience to staff, members, and participants focused on YMCA core values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Key Responsibilities

Design, implement, and evaluate programs, activities, and events.

Program responsibilities may include: maintaining consistency and safety measures performed by lifeguards, maintaining quality swim lessons, water fitness, swim team programs, adaptive programs, and birthday parties.

Plan, coordinate, and implement programs and classes as assigned.

Establish new program activities and expand programs to meet the needs of the community in accordance with Association strategic and operating plans.

Coordinate use of facilities for program activities and events.

Organize and schedule program registrations.

Monitor daily pool operations to adhere to all state, local and YMCA health and safety regulations.

Secure and schedule pool facilities.

Build quality relationships with members and provide leadership and hands-on instruction in groups and on a one-to-one basis.

Administer program evaluations of all classes.

Compile program statistics. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of and participation in program.

Track hourly usage to ensure the department has enough staff for safety.

Provide input to help inform and develop marketing materials and support distribution of program information.

Create and schedule lifeguards, swim classes, water fitness classes, and swim team practices and meets.

Collaborate with the Association Operational Focus Groups and other directors of YMCA PKC branches to ensure consistent association-wide programming.

Respond to all member and community inquiries and complaints in a timely manner.

Manage and implement the approved program budget.

Research and purchase new equipment.

Utilize purchase orders, check requests and expense reports per association policies. Use a system to track and monitor ongoing expenses, purchase orders and inventory.

Staff will be responsible for frequent touchpoint cleaning and sanitizing in specific areas.

Meet performance measurement by telling the Y story and raising charitable dollars to fulfill our mission.

Assist staff leadership team in reaching campaign goals through recruiting campaigners, making personal asks and supporting branch events.

Develop relationships with internal/external members to secure and support branch financial development success.

Supervision:

* Recruit, hire, train, develop, schedule and direct staff and volunteers as needed.

Work in collaboration with senior management to review and evaluate staff performance.

* Develop strategies to motivate staff and achieve goals.

  • Support development and implementation of program specific volunteer training program. Assist staff in identifying productive and creative volunteer roles.

* Review, approve, and submit staff time cards to payroll department per schedule.

* Track volunteer hours and record appropriately.

* Schedule shifts and process time off request forms for staff.

* Coordinate and lead in-services and maintain records.

* Provide all departmental staff with professional development.

* Ensure that all mandatory training is scheduled and funded.

* Ensure records of staff certifications are current and complete.

* Conduct lifeguarding, swim instruction, First Aid and CPR trainings.

Provide training and equip staff with tools to better communicate our cause.

Embraces and actively promotes an inclusive and equitable work environment.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications, Skills and Abilities

Bachelor's degree and/or two years related knowledge and experience that includes supervision, fiscal management, program development, staff, and volunteer development.

Must possess and maintain YMCA of the USA Lifeguard Supervisor certification.

Must possess and maintain YMCA Lifeguard Certification, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, AED, First Aid and Oxygen Certifications.

Minimum of six months of aquatics experience including 100 hours of lifeguard service is required.

Knowledge and skills in program activities and related aquatics and office equipment, and the ability to instruct participants in techniques.

Must be able to demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards. Experience preferred.

Positive attitude and previous experience with diverse populations.

The demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and possess excellent interpersonal skills. Proven supervisory/management skills.

Complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day. Complete other online and in-person training as required.

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

Regularly required to talk or hear.

Frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.

Frequently required to sit for long periods of time.

Occasionally lift or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift or move a higher amount.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Frequently works in and around chlorinated water.

Regularly swims, moves and trains in the pool.

Employee Acknowledgement

This job description indicates the general nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions expected of this position. This document is not an exhaustive list and other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or assigned at any time with or without advanced notice.

This job description does not constitute a contract of employment and the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties may exercise employment-at-will rights at any time.

By signing below, you are acknowledging that you have read the document in its entirety and that you understand the requirements, essential functions, and job duties of this position. Further, you acknowledge that you are able to perform the duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation(s), and that should you need assistance, that you are responsible for notifying your Director, Executive Director, and/or Human Resources.