Event Operations Lead

Event Operations Lead – Water Lantern Festival

Location:

Logan, Utah (United States) with Nationwide & International Travel

Employment Type:

Part-Time (January–April) transitioning to Full-Time Seasonal (April–September) W2 employee

Compensation: $18–$20 per hour (based on experience)

Reports to:

Event Producer

Water Lantern Festival is one of the fastest-growing, most inspiring experiential events in the world. We create magical nights where thousands of families and friends come together to write hopes, dreams, and memories on beautiful rice-paper lanterns and launch them across the water. We are a values-driven company that believes in hard work, constant improvement, and creating experiences that change lives.

The Event Operations Lead supports the Event Producer in executing Water Lantern Festival events, with a primary focus on on-site leadership, operational excellence, team coordination, and revenue optimization during the peak season. This role is hands‑on and travel-intensive, ensuring each event delivers a seamless, magical experience for guests while meeting financial goals. Ideal for a rising leader passionate about live events and guest-focused operations.

• Collaborate with the Event Producer to execute 10–20 events per season
• Oversee on-site operations for assigned events: lead load-in/load-out, manage crew (10–20 team members), and execute the run-of-show from setup to strike
• Drive onsite revenue generation through upselling VIP experiences, merchandise sales, and partnerships with food trucks/sponsors
• Train and mentor on-site coordinators and crew on safety protocols, guest service standards, and event execution best practices
• Handle real-time logistics and problem-solving on site, including coordination with local vendors, permits enforcement, and compliance
• Monitor event performance metrics (attendance, revenue, guest feedback) and provide post-event reports with actionable insights for improvement
• Step in as lead producer when needed, adapting to challenges like weather delays or vendor issues with quick, confident decision-making
• During the part‑time phase (January–April), perform any tasks assigned by the Event Producer, which may include administrative support, research, vendor outreach, or other projects to prepare for the upcoming season
• Foster a positive, high-energy team culture aligned with our values
• Ensure compliance with all local and international regulations, safety standards, and environmental guidelines for water-based events

• 2+ years of experience in event production, operations, or festival management
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Proven track record in team leadership and revenue-focused event execution
• Comfortable with heavy travel (50–70% during peak season, including United States and select international locations) and working evenings/weekends outdoors
• Valid U.S. passport required (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond planned travel dates)
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills; ability to thrive under pressure while maintaining a guest-first mindset
• Proficiency in event software (e.g., Eventbrite, Google Workspace) and basic financial tracking
• Physically able to lift 40 lbs and be on feet for 10+ hours
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation; U.S. work authorization required
• Passion for creating meaningful experiences and a collaborative spirit

• January–April:
  Part-time, 15–25 hours per week (flexible, assigned tasks)
• April–September:
  Full-time, 40–50+ hours per week (includes heavy travel weeks)
• October–December:
  Minimal hours / off-season flexibility

• $18–$20 per hour, commensurate with experience
• All travel expenses fully covered (flights, lodging, per diem, ground transport, visas if required)
• Performance bonuses tied to event revenue and guest satisfaction goals
• Professional development opportunities and potential advancement to full Event Producer
• Join a tight-knit team that's redefining experiential events globally