Events and Production Manager

Position Overview

The Events & Production Manager serves as the operational lead for the Events Department and plays a key role in producing THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride for the California State Railroad Museum Foundation.

This position oversees the planning and execution of approximately 20 annual events across museum and train venues while supervising Event Coordinators and maintaining effective planning systems and timelines.

The Foundation’s signature event, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, takes place during November and December, with planning occurring year-round and intensive preparation beginning in October. This large-scale seasonal attraction operates in the evenings and weekends throughout the holiday season and requires coordination across multiple departments, vendors, 100+ seasonal staff, and volunteers, serving thousands of guests each year.

The ideal candidate is a strong project manager who can manage complex logistics, lead teams, and maintain operational structure across both event planning and large-scale seasonal production.

Key Responsibilities
• Manage the annual events calendar (approximately 20 events each year)
• Supervise and mentor two Event Coordinators
• Assign event ownership and maintain planning timelines
• Lead event planning meetings and maintain department planning systems and workflows
• Serve as Event Owner for flagship events (approximately 1–2 annually)
• Oversee event budgets and vendor coordination for all events, including THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
• Manage museum and train-based event logistics
• Conduct post-event evaluations and reporting
• Support production planning and develop production timelines and schedules for THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride in collaboration with the Director of Events and leadership team
• Support onboarding and coordination of seasonal staff and volunteers for THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
• Manage day-to-day operational coordination during the run of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
• Troubleshoot operational issues during event nights

Qualifications
• 3+ years of experience in event management, production management, or a related field
• Experience managing complex events or productions
• Demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Experience coordinating vendors, event logistics, and operational planning
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with live event production or seasonal attractions
• Experience working in nonprofit, museum, entertainment, or tourism environments

Additional Information

This is an in-person position based in Sacramento, CA. The role requires regular on-site work to support event planning, coordination, and production management.

Occasional nights and weekends are required, particularly during The Polar Express Train Ride and other peak operating periods.

Travel between Sacramento and Jamestown, California is expected on an occasional basis.

Compensation

Salary: $75,000 – $80,000 annually, depending on experience.

Benefits
• 90% employer-paid health insurance (employee only)
• 100% employer-paid dental and vision insurance
• 12 paid holidays annually
• Three weeks of paid vacation annually
• 401(k) plan eligibility after one year of employment
• Opportunities for professional development and training

Physical Requirements
• Ability to perform the essential functions of a typical office-based position, including remaining in a stationary position for extended periods while working at a computer or desk.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment such as computers, phones, printers, and related technology.
• Ability to lift, carry, or move materials weighing up to 25 pounds on an occasional basis.
• Ability to work outdoors and move between indoor and outdoor environments in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to walk across uneven surfaces, including gravel, ballast, platforms, and other railroad or historic site environments.
• Ability to climb stairs and safely board or move around railroad equipment, railcars, or related structures as required for site visits, events, or operational coordination.

Justice, Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity

The Foundation is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and serving diverse communities. We value professional experience, lived experience, and perspectives that strengthen our mission and advance equitable access to cultural and educational resources.

How to Apply

To apply, submit your application through the Foundation’s hiring site at: https://californiarailroad.museum/apply

Applicants must submit a resume and a cover letter. Applications submitted without a cover letter may not be considered.