Coordinator, Events and Programming

Coordinator, Events Programming
Location: Grand Rapids, MI

Schedule: Full-Time, Salary Exempt | Flexible schedule including Evenings, Weekends & Events

Be Part Of a World-Class Guest Experience

At Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, art, nature, and culture come together to create unforgettable experiences. From major exhibitions and concerts to member events and community programs, our events bring people together in one of the nation’s premier cultural destinations.

We’re looking for an Events Programming Coordinator who enjoys turning creative ideas into seamless, memorable experiences. If you thrive in fast-paced environments, love the fine details, and enjoy seeing events come to life from planning through execution, this role could be a great fit.

Why This Role Matters
Events are one of the ways Meijer Gardens fulfills its mission to inspire enjoyment, understanding, and appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment, and the arts. As a Coordinator, you’ll help bring that mission to life—planning and executing programs that connect our members, guests, and community to the experiences that make Meijer Gardens special.

What You’ll Do
Plan & Coordinate Events

Coordinate logistics for membership, society, and specialty public events
Manage event timelines, run-of-show documents, staffing coordination, and vendor communication
Serve as day-of lead for assigned events, ensuring smooth execution and resolving issues as they arise

Bring Experiences To Life

Assist with event design and concept planning alongside the Events & Programming team
Translate event concepts into clear operational plans and timelines
Help create engaging experiences that support our mission and enhance the guest journey

Support Event Operations

Assist with front-of-house and back-of-house event logistics including guest flow, check-in, and staff coordination
Help maintain high standards for guest experience, safety, and accessibility
Provide operational support for exhibitions with seasonal programming as assigned

Work Across Teams

Coordinate with departments including Guest Services, Philanthropy, Marketing, Facilities, Security, Culinary, and Horticulture
Collaborate with the Performing Arts team to ensure event and program needs are met
Communicate event plans and updates clearly across internal partners

Help Keep Events Organized

Maintain event documentation, calendars, and planning materials
Support ticketing coordination and attendance tracking
Assist with vendor documentation, purchase orders, invoice tracking, and expense reconciliation
Contribute to post-event debriefs and process improvements

What You Bring

3-5+ years of experience in event coordination, hospitality, guest experience, or program operations
Experience coordinating public events, membership programs, or donor experiences
Strong organizational and project management skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities in fast-paced environments
Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
High attention to detail and strong follow-through
Collaborative mindset and a passion for delivering great guest experiences
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Communications, Arts Administration, or a related field preferred. Equivalent experience may also be considered.

What Makes This Opportunity Unique

Work at one of the most visited cultural destinations in the Midwest
Help deliver exhibitions, concerts, and events experienced by hundreds of thousands of guests each year
Collaborate with teams across arts, horticulture, hospitality, and philanthropy
Contribute to programs that support creativity, community engagement, and cultural enrichment
Flexible schedule aligned with events and seasonal programming.

Our Values
We look for team members who embody:

Welcoming: Fostering joy and an inclusive and accessible environment for everyone.
Excellence: Approaching all we do with world-class intentionalism.
Innovation: Embracing the future to create unique and engaging experiences in art, culture and nature with a commitment to creativity.
Integrity: Operating with honesty, transparency and accountability throughout the organization.
Stewardship: Preserving and enhancing our community, physical, cultural, and financial resources for current and future generations.

If you’re energized by creating meaningful experiences and love seeing events come together from concept to execution, we’d love to hear from you.

Working Conditions
Indoor office and event space environment with outdoor work in varying weather conditions. Must be willing to work a flexible schedule including occasional weekends, evenings, and events; travel occasionally; work in a fast-paced, multi-faceted and culturally diverse museum environment. Required to operate computers and office equipment. Must have the mobility in office, grounds, facilities, and exhibition areas and the ability to lift 10 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally.

As part of our onboarding process, all new hires are required to complete our background check.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.