Temporary Special Event Assistant

Genesee Country Village & Museum (GCV&M), located in Mumford, NY, stands as the largest living history museum in New York State and the third largest in the United States. Established in 1976, this premier heritage site encompasses 68 historic buildings in its Historic Village, the Genesee Country Nature Center with over five miles of scenic trails, and the John L. Wehle Gallery, which houses a remarkable collection of wildlife and sporting art alongside 19th-century clothing. The museum serves as a dynamic cultural and educational institution, dedicated to preserving and interpreting regional history in ways that are engaging, inclusive, and educational for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

GCV&M is currently seeking a Temporary Special Event Assistant to join their team on a part-time basis from June 1 through October 31, 2026. This role offers up to 20 hours per week with a variable schedule often necessitating weekend work. The hourly wage for this position is $16.50, reflective of the museum’s commitment to fair and competitive compensation for meaningful work. The Special Event Assistant will report directly to the Vice President of Programs and will not have any direct reports. This temporary role is vital for supporting the successful execution and organization of large audience special events throughout the museum grounds.

The primary purpose of the Special Event Assistant position is to work in close collaboration with Special Event Managers to deliver quality programming that is both engaging and inclusive. The assistant will help coordinate numerous logistical and operational tasks such as vendor communication, event set-up including the arrangement of tables, chairs, and sound systems, as well as performing sign-making and other preparatory duties. On event days, the Special Event Assistant acts as a liaison between vendors, performers, and guests, ensuring smooth operations and upholding the museum’s values of inclusivity and guest experience.

Beyond event support, this position involves administrative functions such as maintaining vendor contact databases and contract documentation. The assistant also assists other departments as needed, illustrating the museum’s collaborative and cross-functional work environment. This might include helping with education programming or development initiatives, greeting field trip buses, or transitioning spaces between events.

Working conditions for the Special Event Assistant require flexibility with hours, including regular weekend shifts and occasional holidays. Physical demands include walking up to three miles a day outdoors in various weather conditions, performing physical tasks like kneeling, bending, reaching, and handling objects up to 30 pounds. Additionally, a valid state-issued driver’s license or learner’s permit is required to operate museum golf carts.

The ideal candidate will have previous experience in event management or program planning, capable of managing multiple priorities calmly and independently. Strong communication skills, cultural competency interacting with diverse populations, and a collaborative spirit are essential. Familiarity with museum environments or similar cultural institutions is beneficial but not mandatory.

Genesee Country Village & Museum is deeply committed to equal employment opportunities and diversity, actively seeking to foster an inclusive environment that reflects the diversity of its community. This role represents an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about history, culture, and event coordination to contribute to a respected and vibrant museum institution while gaining valuable experience in event operations and administration.