Photo Team Manager - Ann Arbor, MI

Jostens is a renowned leader in the student commemoration market, with over 125 years of experience serving local communities across the United States and beyond. The company specializes in partnering with thousands of K-12 schools, colleges, and universities as well as sports teams and esteemed organizations nationwide. Jostens offers iconic products such as yearbooks, letter jackets, class jewelry, and championship rings, which play a significant role in preserving meaningful traditions. These products celebrate and inspire millions each year by commemorating unique stories, milestone moments, and major accomplishments. Operating 13 state-of-the-art facilities globally, Jostens maintains a strong presence from North America to the Caribbean, committed to quality and customer satisfaction.

The role available is for a Seasonal Photo Team Manager located primarily in Ann Arbor, MI, or its surrounding cities. This hybrid position requires a combination of remote and onsite work at various school locations, emphasizing flexibility and local engagement from June through November, with a possible extension into December depending on the event schedule. The position offers competitive pay ranging from $27 to $29 per hour and provides full-time status with eligibility for healthcare benefits, including health, dental, and vision coverage. An average workweek exceeds 30 hours, with overtime opportunities during peak periods and a paid training program that welcomes candidates without prior photography experience. Additionally, employees have access to voluntary benefits such as discounts on home and car insurance, pet insurance, travel perks, and a daily pay option through DailyPay.

As the Seasonal Photo Team Manager, you will be the pivotal leader championing the coordination and success of school photography operations throughout your assigned hub. This dynamic role combines leadership, training, logistics, and hands-on event management. You will oversee and motivate a talented team of photographers responsible for capturing memorable moments for students from kindergarten through 12th grade, along with their families. Key responsibilities include managing photo day logistics, ensuring appropriate photographer scheduling, and maintaining equipment organization, storage, and transport. You will also coordinate with other team leads for weekly pickups and final shipments of photography gear back to headquarters.

A critical part of your role involves partnership with HR to recruit and hire photographers and direct management of photographers and their school assignments within your hub. Ensuring clear communication among photographers, school contacts, and event teams is essential to maintain the highest standard of service adherence and attendance. You will lead virtual weekly team meetings, supervise expense approvals, manage overtime and travel logistics, and partner with the Travel Coordinator to address hotel accommodations.

In addition to managerial duties, you will be expected to work on some events as a photographer or event lead, particularly during peak days. Your ability to handle technical equipment setup, troubleshoot issues, and ensure smooth daily operations is vital. The role demands physical stamina, including the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and maintain energy levels throughout demanding photo days. Travel within the assigned area is required to support school events and operational needs.

The ideal candidate brings proven leadership experience with a strong aptitude for managing teams under pressure. A four-year degree or equivalent combination of education, customer service, and general business experience is preferred. Exceptional communication skills to effectively lead teams and interact positively with clients and school partners are essential. Organizational skills and attention to detail will enable successful multitasking in a fast-paced environment. Tech-savviness and proficiency in learning new software programs quickly are necessary to manage digital workflows. You must hold a valid driver's license with access to a reliable, insured vehicle large enough to transport equipment. Familiarity with school environments and maintaining a professional appearance consistent with Jostens corporate image will benefit team integration. Reliable access to cell phone and internet is required for consistent communication.

This role offers the chance to join a fun, supportive team dedicated to shared goals, providing competitive compensation with flexible daily pay options and travel reimbursements for mileage and time. Healthcare benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage with additional voluntary benefits and an immediate 401K match program. This is an excellent opportunity to grow your leadership career while contributing to meaningful experiences for students and their communities in a well-established and thriving company.