Event Operations Manager

Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features. Direct message the job poster from Seattle Christmas Market Have you ever heard of Glühwein/Mulled Wine, a Christmas Pyramid, or a Schwibbogen? A traditional German-style Christmas Market is set up at the Seattle Center next to the Space Needle from November – December 2025, but the work starts now! The market will feature traditional European food and merchandise to spread Christmas Cheer in our community and beyond. The Seattle Christmas Market (SCM) will be entering its third year of operation after a breakout start in 2023. With an expected attendance of over 180,000 guests, our month-long market experience is the first of its kind in Washington State. Supported by the Vancouver Christmas Market (VCM), an established brand that has welcomed over 2.5 million guests since 2010 in Downtown Vancouver, B.C. If you are looking for a diverse workplace, in a growing company, and love creating experiences for the community, we want you to become a part of the Seattle Christmas Market Team! We invite you to look at the job opportunity for our Event Operations Coordinator and a pply. Contract Full-Time Employment Opportunity – Event Operations Coordinator The Seattle Christmas Market is seeking a driven, enthusiastic Event Operations Coordinator , who will report directly to the Operations Manager. A successful candidate for this role is a creative thinker who understands the specific needs of the company’s seasonal events while keeping in mind the larger components necessary for its completion. This candidate is a confident leader and efficient planner. A successful candidate must be proficient in daily event operations and have the expertise to coordinate with suppliers and partners. This full-time contract position will be hybrid until October. From November to December, you will be required to be on-site based on market hours, which include evenings and weekends. Roles and Responsibilities The Event Operations Coordinator supports the successful execution of the Seattle Christmas Market by overseeing essential on-site logistics, managing key support teams, and ensuring smooth coordination between vendors, infrastructure, and event departments. This role demands high organization, clear communication, and proactive problem-solving to maintain the highest standards of market operations. Collaborate with the Operations Manager to prepare and maintain the detailed Production Schedule. Manage the Hausmeister team to support Vendor Services, Decor, and Site Maintenance needs. Assist with supplier coordination and execution during load-in, event operations, and load-out. Support on-site infrastructure planning to meet city/venue permit requirements and inspection standards. Participate in site inspections and provide ongoing regulatory and safety compliance support. Maintain clear daily communication with the Operations Manager, escalating issues as needed. Keep accurate records for year-end reviews, compliance, and operational analysis. Coordinate market inventory management, including warehousing, materials movement, asset tracking, and end-of-season reconciliation. Work with the Decor Supplier and internal teams to ensure timely, high-quality decor installation. Provide on-the-ground operational support to vendors, FOH, carousel, and information services. Monitor supplier performance against contractual obligations, raising concerns with the Operations Manager. Attend supplier and training meetings to stay current on best practices and trends. Coordinate asset shipping, imports, and orders in collaboration with the Operations Manager. Collaborate with SCM and VCM teams to establish an effective decor order and setup process. Requirements and Selection Criteria Curious, Inquisitive, Creative, and a Christmas enthusiast; 2 years' experience executing events/ festivals in a managerial role Degree or Certificate in event management or stage management is preferred Must have advanced proficiency with software and online tools, specifically with the full Microsoft Office Suite. Experience with Airtable, and Square would be an asset. Diplomatic approach while working within policies, rules, and procedures; Demonstrative, self-critical, determined approach to completing assignments; Ability to multitask within tight deadlines; Proven experience working with suppliers for events or festivals; Excellent verbal and written communication skills; Attention to detail working with documents and projects during the market; Excellent organizational skills and project management experience; Experience with scheduling and overseeing the activities of large groups; Ability to take projects from concept through execution to final production; Ability to quickly adapt to changing environments, problem-solving skills, and an innovative mindset including exercising good judgment and decision making; Valid US Passport Valid Driver's license Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in an outside environment for long periods of time. Compensation Salary range: $26 - $31 per hour Free market entry tickets and traditional beverage vouchers for family and friends Application Process Please send RESUME and COVER LETTER Seniority level Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type Employment type Full-time Job function Job function Management and Manufacturing Industries Events Services Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Seattle Christmas Market by 2x Get notified about new Operations Coordinator jobs in Seattle, WA . 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