Events Assistant

DEPARTMENT: Philanthropy

REPORTS TO: Special Events Manager

LOCATION: La Jolla, CA – on the scenic UC San Diego campus

CLASSIFICATION: Very Part-Time; Non-exempt (hourly); average 8-15 hours per week, with hours varying based on the event schedule

COMPENSATION: $19.00 per hour plus limited benefits including paid sick leave and complimentary tickets to Playhouse performances

SCHEDULE: Variable daytime, afternoon, evening, weekend, and occasional holiday shifts based on event needs. 

APPLICATION MATERIALS: Resume required; brief cover letter or short statement of interest optional.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

Are you passionate about live events, hospitality, and creating memorable experiences? La Jolla Playhouse is seeking a dependable, detail-oriented Events Assistant to provide hands-on support for stewardship, engagement, and fundraising events. From Opening Night celebrations to intimate donor receptions, you’ll help bring events to life by supporting setup, guest environment needs, and post-event breakdown so every guest feels welcomed and every event runs smoothly.

This role may be a great fit if you:

• Are seeking supplemental, very part-time work with occasional event-based hours.


• Enjoy hospitality, events, theatre, nonprofit work, or community-facing experiences.


• Like active, hands-on work that includes setup, restocking, cleanup, and guest environment support.


• Want behind-the-scenes experience supporting special events at a nationally recognized theatre.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

• Support a variety of events including VIP Celebration Nights, Inner Circle gatherings, Military Nights Out, corporate receptions, and our signature Gala and Innovation Night.


• Assist with physical event setup, including furniture placement, décor, linens, signage, floral arrangements, and food and beverage stations.


• Replenish supplies for bartenders and caterers throughout the event. 


• Maintain a clean and welcoming event environment by clearing trash and used items. 


• Prepare cast and crew meal areas with necessary supplies. 


• Collaborate with UC San Diego facilities team for furniture moves and cleanup. 


• Handle post-event breakdown and cleanup, and secure the premises. 


• Distribute and collect signage and other event materials. 


• Take on additional tasks as needed to ensure event success.

WHAT YOU BRING:

• Regular and dependable on-site attendance.


• A flexible, can-do attitude and a team-first mindset. 


• Strong interpersonal skills to engage with staff, vendors, and guests. 


• Availability to work variable daytime, afternoon, evening, weekend, and occasional holiday shifts. 


• Access to reliable transportation for occasional local errands or pickups related to events.


• Passion for the arts and alignment with La Jolla Playhouse’s mission and values.


• Comfort performing active physical tasks during event setup, execution, and breakdown.

Preferred:

• Previous experience in event support, hospitality, banquets, theatre, or customer-facing service.


• Familiarity with nonprofit, arts, or campus event environments.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

• This role involves frequently lifting and moving furniture weighing up to 50 lbs, such as 6-foot tables, cafe tables, chairs, belly bars, lounge furniture and stools. It also requires frequent pushing/pulling (cart), bending, reaching, and use of arms and hands to set up event supplies and décor such as candles, flowers, drop linens, pillows, and food stations (plates, napkins, cups, utensils, etc.).


• Ability to work outdoors in variable weather conditions during event setup and event day.


• Ability to remain on one’s feet for extended periods during event preparation and event execution, as needed.

PERKS OF THE JOB:

• Accrued paid sick leave.


• Complimentary tickets to Playhouse performances.


• Hands-on experience supporting La Jolla Playhouse’s signature events.


• Opportunity to work alongside professionals in philanthropy, special events, and arts administration.


• Be part of a collaborative, mission-driven team in a beautiful and vibrant campus setting.


• A flexible opportunity for candidates who want to stay connected to live theatre, special events, and the local arts community.