Events and Production Manager

The California State Railroad Museum Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of railroading in California and the western United States. The Foundation supports educational programs, historic preservation, and special events that engage a wide audience, from families to history enthusiasts. One of the Foundation's most beloved offerings is THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, an annual seasonal event that transforms the museum and train venues into a magical holiday experience for thousands of guests. This event is a large-scale production requiring meticulous coordination between departments, vendors, seasonal staff, and volunteers. The Foundation's mission is deeply rooted in fostering community involvement and creating memorable experiences that connect people to the history and heritage of railroading.

The Events & Production Manager serves as the operational leader of the Events Department at the California State Railroad Museum Foundation. This role is integral to the successful planning and execution of approximately 20 events each year, including THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. The manager oversees event coordinators, manages event calendars, coordinates logistics across multiple venues, and ensures that all events run smoothly and efficiently. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, held during November and December, represents the pinnacle of seasonal events and involves extensive preparation and intensive planning. This event operates primarily during evenings and weekends and requires strong leadership to manage over 100 seasonal staff and volunteers, coordinate numerous vendors, and serve thousands of guests annually.

The ideal candidate for this role is a highly skilled project manager with experience overseeing complex events or productions. They must have demonstrated leadership abilities, strong organizational skills, and a talent for problem-solving. The Events & Production Manager will lead a team, manage budgets, maintain departmental systems, and ensure rigorous planning and evaluation processes. This in-person position is based in Sacramento, CA, and demands regular on-site presence, particularly during peak event periods. Occasional travel to Jamestown, CA, is required. Compensation ranges from $75,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, and the Foundation offers comprehensive benefits including employer-paid health, dental, and vision insurance, paid holidays and vacation, and opportunities for professional growth. Overall, this role is perfect for a dedicated events professional passionate about producing memorable cultural experiences and managing complex event operations within a historic museum setting.