What are the responsibilities and job description for the Festival Event Lead position at Catering St. Louis Events?
Outdoor Festival Event Lead
Location: Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis, MO
Potion Type: Part-Time, Seasonal (April-Sept weekends) (Nov, Dec 5 evenings per week)
Reports to: VP of Operations
Position Summary
The Part-Time Outdoor Festival Lead plays a key role in supporting the successful execution of retail food and beverage locations for outdoor festivals, cultural celebrations, seasonal events, and guest experiences throughout the Missouri Botanical Garden. This position serves as the on-site event lead during assigned shifts, coordinating event setup and breakdown, overseeing staff, troubleshooting operational issues, and ensuring a safe, welcoming, and engaging experience for guests.
The ideal candidate is energetic, customer-focused, highly organized, and comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced event environment.
Essential Responsibilities
Event Operations
- Serve as the on-site lead for assigned festivals, and special events.
- Coordinate event setup, operation, and breakdown activities according to event plans and schedules.
- Monitor event activities and make operational adjustments as needed.
- Ensure event spaces remain clean, organized, and presentable throughout the event.
Staff
- Direct and support seasonal staff during events.
- Assign duties and monitor performance to ensure tasks are completed effectively.
- Provide guidance, training, and real-time problem solving.
- Promote a positive, team-oriented work environment.
Guest Service
- Serve as a visible and approachable point of contact for guests.
- Respond professionally to guest questions, concerns, and requests.
- Assist with wayfinding and provide information about Garden attractions, festival activities, and event schedules.
- Help create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all visitors.
Safety and Compliance
- Follow and enforce Garden policies, safety procedures, and event protocols.
- Monitor event areas for potential hazards and report concerns immediately.
- Assist with emergency response procedures when necessary.
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- One year of experience in events, hospitality, guest services, recreation, tourism, or a related field.
- Strong customer service and communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams and work independently.
- Ability to multitask and remain calm under pressure.
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and irregular schedules based on event needs.
Preferred
- Experience leading staff.
- Experience working at festivals, outdoor events, attractions, museums, parks, or cultural institutions.
- Basic knowledge of event operations and crowd management.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, often 6 to 10 hours per shift.
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, including heat, humidity, rain, and cold temperatures.
- Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to navigate uneven terrain and large outdoor event spaces.
Key Competencies
- Leadership and teamwork
- Guest-focused service
- Problem solving and decision making
- Organization and attention to detail
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Professional communication
- Initiative and accountability
Work Schedule
This is a seasonal, part-time position with hours that vary based on festival and event schedules. Most shifts occur during evenings, weekends, and holidays. Additional hours may be available during peak event seasons. April through September weekend days November and December evenings.
Pay: $18.00-$23.00 per hour plus tips
Pay: $18.00 - $23.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18 - $23