Special Events Coordinator

Lakewood, CO, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $27.52 - $33.02

Work Schedule

Flexible

Day Shifts

Weekend Shifts

Benefits

Paid Time Off

Health Insurance

Retirement Plan

Tuition Reimbursement

Paid holidays

Dental Insurance

flexible schedule

Job Description

The City of Golden, known for its vibrant outdoor lifestyle and scenic surroundings, is currently seeking a Special Events Coordinator to join its team. Situated near the foothills and Clear Creek, Golden offers an exceptional living and working environment with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and community engagement. The city prides itself on providing a workplace that extends beyond a mere job, fostering a lifestyle enriched by proximity to great restaurants, shops, trails, and natural beauty. As a Golden employee, individuals benefit from a supportive community atmosphere, comprehensive benefits, and a work culture that values balance and professional growth. The city's commitment to its employees is reflected in generous paid time off—starting with 16 days of vacation, plus sick leave and paid holidays—as well as substantial retirement contribution matches and tuition reimbursement programs.

The Special Events Coordinator position is a key role within the City's Communications Department, reporting to the Communications and Community Engagement Director. This role is responsible for overseeing all municipal aspects of permit-authorized community and special events on City property, ensuring these events align with the City's goals and policies. The coordinator manages every stage of event planning and implementation, from evaluating proposals and facilitating permits to monitoring event operations and promoting successful outcomes. This position also involves leading city-sponsored events, coordinating with various city departments, community partners, and volunteers to deliver well-organized and impactful events that bolster both the City's economic vitality and community spirit.

The role demands a thorough knowledge of special event management, including emergency management protocols, vendor and sponsorship coordination, and adherence to city safety and regulatory requirements. The coordinator also plays a vital role as a liaison between the City, event organizers, and the public, ensuring transparent communication and continuous improvement of special events through evaluations and public reporting. Additionally, the coordinator administers important city programs such as the Special Events Grant Program and the Special Event Review Committee, facilitating meetings, application reviews, and the implementation of City Council directions.

This position requires someone who is detail-oriented, highly organized, and capable of managing multiple priorities under tight deadlines. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential to effectively interact with city staff, community partners, volunteers, and the public. The ability to work independently with minimal supervision while contributing to departmental initiatives is crucial. The Special Events Coordinator is also expected to participate in community meetings, city council presentations, and maintain an active role in local event networks to stay abreast of best practices and emerging trends.

Working in Golden means committing to a role that involves dynamic work environments, occasional physical activity including outdoor event oversight, and flexible work schedules, which may require evening and weekend hours. This job not only offers an opportunity to manage meaningful events that shape the community’s cultural and economic landscape but also provides a platform for professional development in municipal event management. With excellent benefits, a supportive city government, and a beautiful location, this is an exceptional opportunity for a dedicated special events professional looking to make a positive impact in a lively and welcoming community.

Job Requirements

Bachelor's degree in public administration, communications, event management, or related field
Minimum of 3 years experience in special events coordination or management
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
Knowledge of municipal policies and procedures related to special events
Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends
Proficiency with computer software including MS Office and social media platforms
Valid driver's license
Ability to occasionally lift up to 40 pounds
Experience managing volunteers and coordinating community events
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion

Job Qualifications

Knowledge of special events management principles and practices
Experience in public relations, marketing, promotions, and advertising
Ability to develop and administer event budgets
Experience in sponsorship development and managing vendor and sponsor contracts
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Proficiency in MS Office and social media applications
Ability to work independently and with teams
Customer service and human relations skills
Organizational skills and attention to detail
Experience in emergency management practices
Ability to conduct event evaluations and manage compliance with city policies

Job Duties

Administering and facilitating the permitting process for community events on city property
Ensuring events meet City goals and policies during application and implementation
Planning, organizing, and implementing City events
Coordinating with other City departments on event planning and execution
Securing permits, venues, equipment, food, beverages, performers, and speakers for City events
Ensuring compliance with City special event permitting process and setting examples for event partners
Applying emergency management best practices and maintaining safety protocols
Collaborating with community partners to enhance economic vitality while managing residential impacts
Recruiting, directing, and supervising volunteers for City events
Managing financial and administrative operations of block party and arch banner programs
Leading the Special Event Review Committee including meeting coordination and member recruitment
Overseeing the Special Events Grant Program and administering grant funding
Serving as primary contact and liaison for special events before, during, and after events
Maintaining a community-wide event calendar to avoid scheduling conflicts and manage parking
Guiding and educating event organizers through City special event permit process
Conducting evaluations of all events and providing public transparency and improvement recommendations
Overseeing compliance with city policies on signage, traffic circulation, parking, trash and recycling, liquor regulations, and impact mitigation
Attending community and City Council meetings and making presentations
Developing and monitoring event budgets, recommending permit fee structures, and maintaining expense records
Assuming additional City event responsibilities as required