SOLSTICE Lead Temp

Organization

Mount Auburn Cemetery is the first rural, or garden, cemetery in the United States, located on the line between Cambridge and Watertown 4 miles west of Boston. It is the burial site of many prominent Bostonians as well as being a National Historic Landmark. Dedicated in 1831 and set with classical monuments in a rolling landscaped terrain, it marked a distinct break with Colonial-era burying grounds and church-affiliated graveyards. The 175-acre cemetery is important both for its historical aspects and for its role as botanic garden. It is Watertown's largest contiguous open space and extends into Cambridge to the east. It was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 2003

Event Summary

SOLSTICE: Reflections on Winter Light is an annual event at Mount Auburn Cemetery that includes an outdoor journey through large-scale light and sound artworks (created by MASARY), and an indoor experience with live music and candle lighting. Guests are invited to walk through the light-filled landscape and explore the Winter Solstice atmosphere, and to reflect moments of change as the year ends and a new cycle begins. Connect to a landscape of exceptional beauty, consider an intention for the new year, or commemorate the memory of a loved one. Let the Solstice light your way as you encounter the unique spirit of Mount Auburn.

• Position Title: SOLSTICE Temp Event Staff Lead
• Position Type: Seasonal/Temporary ($30/hr)
• Reports to: Director of Events
• Direct Reports: SOLSTICE Daily Event Set-Up Staff & SOLSTICE Nightly Event Staff
• Event Website: https://www.mountauburnsolstice.org/
• Confirmed Event Dates: December 3-21, 2026
  
  

Position Summary

The SOLSTICE Temp Event Staff Leads provide on-site leadership and support for Mount Auburn’s signature annual event, SOLSTICE: Reflections on Winter Light (December 3–21, 2026). Four Lead positions will be assigned following hire:

• Bigelow Chapel Lead – Oversees safety, guest experience, entry, and event staff at Bigelow Chapel. Ensures that all safety standards are upheld and maintains an atmosphere of quiet reflection in the Chapel.
• Daytime Set-Up Lead – Coordinates the Daily Set-Up Crew to prepare event spaces and station lanterns, orbs, and signage.
• Lantern Walk/Outdoor Lead – Supervises staff along the Lantern Walk, ensuring that guests are not wandering from the event grounds into the cemetery and that staff are properly supported.
• Front Precinct/Check In Lead- Oversees both the Welcome Center, which includes the gift shop as well as Story Chapel for the Thought Artist Video, Message Boards, and more. Also manages the check-in area.
  
  

Leads act as the primary point of contact for their assigned area, ensuring that staff are supported, and guests have a welcoming, safe experience. They will be responsible for drafting incident and nightly reports to be submitted to the Director of Events at the end of each night.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and support Event Staff assigned to your area (5–10 staff depending on the role).
• Serve as a liaison between Director of Public Events and on-site temp staff.
• Assist staff assigned to your areas as needed.
• Monitor schedules, staff breaks, and staff performance.
• Troubleshoot guests and staff needs in real time with a problem-solving mindset.
• Provide clear, friendly communication to staff, volunteers, partners, and guests.
• Ensure safety, accessibility, and adherence to event guidelines.
• Contribute to nightly setup and/or breakdown as needed.
• Submit nightly event reports and incident reports to the Director of Events.
• Attend training sessions as required.
  
  

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Previous event leadership or supervisory experience is strongly preferred.
• Previous event support and/or customer service experience required.
• Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively with diverse groups.
• Organized, reliable, and adaptable in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with Mount Auburn Cemetery and/or SOLSTICE a plus.
• Ability to remain calm and professional while managing challenges.
  
  

Working Conditions

• Indoor and outdoor work in winter weather conditions.
• Standing or walking for extended periods of time.
• Lifting and moving event equipment (e.g., lantern carts, signage).
• Evenings and weekends are required.
  
  

Mount Auburn Cemetery is an equal-opportunity employer. It does not discriminate in employment opportunities on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religion, gender, national origin, age, pregnancy, citizenship status, physical or mental ability, military status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.