Special Events Coordinator

The City of Kentwood is a vibrant municipality dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for its residents through innovative community services and recreational opportunities. Located within a sprawling 21-square-mile area, Kentwood takes pride in its extensive parks and recreation system, offering residents access to over 15 parks covering more than 300 acres, miles of non-motorized trails, splashpads, pickleball courts, and well-equipped playgrounds. The Parks and Recreation Department also manages numerous rental facilities, a community farmers market, and organizes over 1,000 recreation programs and community events annually. With plans for the debut of a new Community Center, Kentwood remains committed to fostering a sense of connection, wellness, and vibrancy across all age groups and demographics within its community.

The City of Kentwood is currently seeking a Special Events Coordinator to become an integral part of its Parks and Recreation Department. This role offers an exciting opportunity for a detail-oriented and creative professional who is passionate about orchestrating dynamic community events that bring people together. As a Special Events Coordinator, you will be responsible for the end-to-end planning, coordination, and execution of a diverse array of indoor and outdoor events that enhance the community's quality of life. Your work will impact residents of all ages by creating memorable and engaging experiences that foster social connection and community pride.

This full-time position offers an hourly pay range of $25.99 to $33.20, depending on experience, along with a robust benefits package including a 10 percent employer retirement contribution, excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance, and a generous leave policy encompassing vacation, sick leave, holidays, and parental leave. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, people-focused environment, demonstrates strong organizational and communication skills, and possesses the ability to manage multiple projects and budgets simultaneously. You will coordinate all logistics including registrations, vendors, staffing, and supplies, handle cash and bookkeeping functions, and ensure events run smoothly from conception through evaluation.

In this role, you will recruit, hire, train, and supervise staff and volunteers, track participation and feedback to measure event success, and provide professional and responsive customer service to both the public and internal teams. Your creativity and problem-solving skills will be essential in identifying and resolving operational challenges that arise to ensure each event leaves a positive impact on the community. By joining Kentwood's Parks and Recreation Department, you are stepping into a role that values community engagement and strives to create spaces and experiences that inspire residents and visitors alike. If you are motivated by making a tangible difference and enjoy working with diverse populations, this position offers a rewarding career path with opportunities for professional development and growth.