Program Associate

Nestled in the heart of downtown Phoenix, the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix (Rohoen) is a living symbol of the sister-city relationship between Phoenix and Himeji, Japan offering a place of serenity, peace, education, and cultural engagement. Guided by core values of authenticity (sharing the essence of a Japanese garden), tranquility (creating space for serenity), beauty (inspiring through nature and art), education (building cultural connections through engagement and learning), tradition (honoring Japanese history and culture), quality (ensuring mindful attention to detail), community (engaging with our neighbors and partners), and hospitality/omotenashi (caring deeply for every relationship), Rohoen serves as both a treasured cultural destination and a welcoming gathering place for the Phoenix community and visitors alike.

Reports to: Program and Events Coordinator
Classification: Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Location: On-site - Phoenix, AZ
Salary Range: $18/hour
Schedule: Part-time, up to 29 hours per week. Weekend, evening, and holiday availability is required based on program and event schedules.

Responsibilities

• Provide exceptional customer service to guests, vendors, performers, volunteers, and staff.
• Welcome and check in guests for events, workshops, tours, and special programs.
• Communicate Garden guidelines, safety procedures, and visitor etiquette upon guest arrival.
• Serve as a positive and professional representative of the Japanese Friendship Garden.
• Assist with the physical setup and breakdown of events, including moving, arranging, and storing tables, chairs, tents, linens, staging, signage, lighting, audio/visual equipment, and other event materials according to event layouts.
• Load, unload, transport, and organize event equipment before and after programs.
• Assist the Facilities & Maintenance team with lighting installation, decor installation, and other event infrastructure as needed.
• Ensure event spaces, storage areas, restrooms, and Garden grounds are clean, organized, and event-ready before, during, and after programs.
• Remove trash, return equipment to designated storage locations, and maintain an orderly work environment.
• Provide on-site support for educational programs, festivals, workshops, and special events.
• Assist with vendor, performer, instructor, and volunteer needs during event operations.
• Support guest flow, parking operations, and directional assistance, as needed.
• Respond promptly to operational needs to ensure a safe, organized, and welcoming guest experience.
• Conduct public and private tours, as needed, following the completion of Docent training.
• Maintain a working knowledge of the Japanese Friendship Garden, its mission, programs, and visitor services.
• Demonstrate an interest in Japanese culture and Japanese gardens while representing the organization professionally.
• Follow all safety procedures and assist with maintaining a safe environment for guests and staff.

Job Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age and be authorized to work in the United States.
• Must have a high school diploma or work experience equivalent.
• Must have reliable transportation and be punctual
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings.
• Must be able to perform constant heavy physical work: lift, push, and carry more than 50lbs. Pull 100 pounds on a cart, climb ladders and stairs, stand and walk for long periods of time inclement weather.

• Must be able to communicate and work well independently and with a group.

Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all applicants without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by law.