Nonprofit Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Under the supervision of the Vice President of Non-Profit Operations, the Events Manager is responsible for the strategic planning, coordination, execution, and evaluation of all Foundation events — including fundraising galas and events, community and membership events, private rentals, donor engagement experiences, and internal gatherings.

This role ensures that all events align with the Foundation's mission, uphold high standards of guest experience, and meet or exceed revenue and participation goals. The Events Manager owns all logistics from concept to completion, manages event budgets and timelines, coordinates vendors and volunteers, and leads seamless on-site execution. This position works cross-functionally with internal teams and collaborates closely with the marketing team to support event visibility and attendance.

This is a salaried, exempt position.

$70,304 - $82,000 yearly

Event Planning & Execution

• Plan, develop, and execute all Foundation events, including fundraising galas and events, community festivals, donor and membership events, and private rentals
• Create detailed event timelines, run-of-show documents, and production schedules
• Oversee all logistical elements, including site layout, setup, breakdown, and guest flow
• Ensure all events reflect the Foundation's mission, brand, and quality standards

Budgeting & Financial Management

• Develop and manage event budgets, ensuring financial goals are met
• Track expenses and revenue, including ticket sales, sponsorships, and rentals
• Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining event quality
• Support revenue generation strategies through event planning and execution

Vendor & Partner Coordination

• Source, negotiate, and manage contracts with vendors (catering, rentals, entertainment, AV, etc.)
• Coordinate permits, insurance, and compliance requirements for events
• Maintain strong relationships with vendors and community partners

On-Site Event Management

• Serve as the lead on-site manager for all events
• Oversee setup, execution, and breakdown
• Troubleshoot issues in real time and ensure smooth operations
• Ensure safety protocols and risk management procedures are followed

Volunteer & Staff Coordination

• Train and manage event volunteers in coordination with the Volunteer Coordinator
• Coordinate roles and responsibilities for staff during events
• Provide clear leadership and direction to ensure successful execution

Guest Donor Experience

• Ensure a high-quality, welcoming experience for all attendees
• Coordinate guest lists, registrations, check-in processes, and VIP experiences
• Support donor stewardship through thoughtful event engagement

Facilities & Rentals

• Oversee private event rentals, including scheduling, logistics, and client communication
• Conduct site walkthroughs with prospective clients
• Ensure rental events comply with Foundation policies and standards

Collaboration with Marketing Team

• Collaborate with the marketing team to provide event details, timelines, and key messaging
• Ensure marketing has accurate and timely information to promote events and drive attendance
• Support content needs by providing event updates, schedules, and highlights

Post-Event Evaluation & Reporting

• Conduct post-event evaluations to assess success and identify areas for improvement
• Track attendance, revenue, and engagement metrics
• Prepare summary reports for leadership
• Maintain records of event performance and impact

• Highly organized, detail-oriented self-starter with strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple events and deadlines simultaneously
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects from concept through execution
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with evolving priorities
• Strong customer service mindset with a focus on guest experience
• Ability to manage budgets and track the financial performance of events
• Experience coordinating vendors, contracts, and logistics
• Ability to lead and coordinate event staff
• Passion for nature, environmental education, and community engagement
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and event management tools

We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that specializes in environmental education. Our Discovery Campus features exhibits, live animal ambassadors, safe outdoor spaces, and a place for the community to come together and "get dirty".

Our Niche is providing Hands-on Excellent Environmental Education.

Mission: To energize our community through education and outreach to preserve the Agua Hedionda Lagoon as a healthy and accessible watershed.

Vision: To be Stewards of the Watershed as we inspire future generations, so we all have access to a healthy lagoon. A safe space in nature… for all.

Core Values:

• Get Stuff Done
• Committed
• Capacity for More
• Situational Awareness
• Team Player
• Understand the Value of Reputation