Event Facilitator

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, located in Grand Rapids, MI, is a renowned cultural destination that seamlessly combines art, culture, and nature to create an inspiring environment for visitors. Known nationally for its beautifully cultivated gardens and impressive outdoor sculptures, the park hosts a variety of events including public programs, performances, weddings, and private gatherings. It offers a unique blend of educational and recreational experiences, engaging the community and visitors in memorable and enriching ways throughout the year. The establishment prides itself on fostering joy, inclusivity, excellence, innovation, integrity, and stewardship, aiming to preserve and enhance its cultural and natural resources for present and future generations. As an employer, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is dedicated to diversity and equal opportunities, providing a positive and welcoming workplace for all team members.

The Event Facilitator role is a vital part-time, seasonal position within the Special Events & Performing Arts department at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. This hourly and non-exempt role requires flexibility as the schedule varies and includes evenings, weekends, and holidays, aligned with the concert schedule, event needs, and operational demands. As an Event Facilitator, you will be a key on-site operational partner responsible for the smooth execution of events. Your work will involve coordinating various logistical elements, supporting clients and vendors, and overseeing event flow to ensure a seamless and professional experience for all guests.

In this role, you will play an essential role in organizing and supervising event setup and breakdown activities for diverse event spaces and equipment. Supporting operational logistics for weddings, public programs, and special events, you will ensure that event spaces are accurately prepared according to detailed plans. During events, you will monitor the event flow, troubleshoot any operational challenges in real time, and maintain a safe, professional, and guest-centered environment. Your role also includes serving as a point of contact for clients, guests, vendors, and partners, effectively communicating event expectations, timelines, and updates to ensure everyone involved enjoys a positive experience.

Collaboration is key to success in this position. You will work closely with staff, volunteers, vendors, and security teams to prioritize operational needs, especially during busy or high-volume periods. Your ability to support cross-functional coordination helps ensure smooth event execution and operational excellence. Additionally, you will manage administrative tasks such as maintaining event activity records, gathering feedback, assisting with post-event evaluations, and communicating logistical information across departments.

To excel as an Event Facilitator, you will bring previous experience in event coordination, hospitality, guest services, or related fields, paired with strong organizational skills that allow you to manage multiple priorities efficiently. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills along with a guest-focused approach will enable you to deliver exceptional service. The dynamic nature of event facilitation demands that you remain calm, professional, and solution-oriented during high-pressure situations. Attention to detail and operational awareness are crucial, as is the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with event or scheduling systems is preferred, and a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Some college coursework in hospitality, event management, communications, or related fields is an asset.

This role offers a unique opportunity to be part of a nationally recognized cultural destination, supporting a varied portfolio of events that enrich the community. You will gain valuable hands-on experience in a beautiful, dynamic setting surrounded by art, culture, and nature. Joining Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park means engaging with a passionate, guest-focused team and playing a visible role in creating memorable experiences that leave lasting impressions on guests and community partners alike.

Working conditions involve both indoor and outdoor settings, sometimes with exposure to changing weather, noise, and large crowds. Physical demands include frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, moving equipment, and lifting items up to 20 pounds. The role requires a high degree of professionalism, clear communication, and flexibility to meet operational needs during peak event seasons. Background checks are part of the onboarding process, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all involved. If you thrive on creating memorable events, problem-solving in real time, and supporting behind-the-scenes success, this role is an excellent fit for you.