Job Description
Full job description
Position Summary
THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THE OPPORTUNITY FOR A
SPECIAL EVENTS MANAGER FOR THE PALM SPRINGS PARK & RECREATION DEPARTMENT!
THE CITY: Palm Springs, located in the Coachella Valley, is known for its luxurious yet relaxed lifestyle. Picture waking up to fresh air, surrounded by palm trees, and enjoying stunning mountain views. This city offers a perfect blend of nature and modern living for both residents and visitors. Palm Springs is ideal for families, offering numerous parks, gardens, and nature reserves for leisurely activities and wildlife encounters. With a wide range of attractions and events, there’s always something fun for everyone in the family. To see the exciting things going on visit the Engage Palm Springs website. The City of Palm Springs is committed to cultivating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace, from policies to inclusive healthcare, and making people of various backgrounds feel welcome and supported. To view our recent Human Rights Campaign, visit the Municipal Equity Index (Download PDF reader) website.
THE POSITION: This position is a member of the Palm Springs Park and Recreation Department. This position manages and coordinates special events and programs; implements program goals and objectives; assist with recreation programming and initiatives; and performs a variety of administrative, professional and technical tasks in support of assigned area of responsibility.
Examples of Essential and General Responsibilities
Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Develop, manage, plan, coordinate and administer the City's special programs, events and recreational programs.
Manage, select, train, schedule, motivate and evaluate staff; provide or coordinate staff training; work with employees to correct deficiencies; implement discipline procedures.
Recommend and develop program goals and objectives; establish schedules and methods for providing programs and events.
Develop and implement policies, procedures, and processes related to areas of responsibilities.
Monitor program performance; recommend and implement modifications to systems and procedures.
Assist in oversight, developments and coordination of recreation program activities including upkeep of recreational facilities and equipment, event set-up, grounds maintenance, custodial services, security and staff supervision.
Schedule usage of various facilities for programs and events including fairs, dances, concerts and shows; provide information and assistance to users of facilities.
Meet with vendors, stakeholders and customers to arrange program and event set-up, security, custodial work, rental facilities, as well as other needed services.
Maintain records and develop reports concerning new or ongoing programs and program effectiveness; maintain records for operations; maintain and file accident and other reports; prepare statistical reports as required.
Coordinate, manage, chair and attend meetings with staff, community, commissions/boards and committees; take and transcribe meeting minutes.
Serve as liaison to various outside groups and organizations to coordinate programs of interest to the City.
Participate in the preparation and administration of assigned budget; submit budget recommendations; monitor expenditures.
Develop survey instruments; conduct surveys of program participants to determine participant needs; interpret and record survey results; implement program changes in response to results.
Maintain awareness of new developments in the field of recreation, special events and programs; incorporate new developments as appropriate into programs.
Assist in the general operations of recreation programs and staff as assigned or in absence of Director.
Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.
Minimum and Preferred Requirements
Minimum requirements must be clearly demonstrated on the application to be considered; however, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an invitation to compete further in the selection process. Experience requirements must be demonstrated in the "Work Experience" section of the application; other sections of the application will not be used to determine experience qualifications. (One year of work experience is the equivalent of 12 months of full-time work. "Full-time work" means at least 36 hours of work over a period of one week or 1,872 hours of work over a period of at least 12 months.) Qualifications noted as "desirable" or "preferred" are not included as part of the minimum requirements.
Experience
Three (3) years of increasingly responsible event planning/management experience which includes one (1) year of administrative supervisory responsibility is required.
Experience in Public sector agency(s) is preferred.
Experience in Parks & Recreation programming is preferred.
Experience in special event logistics and parade management, including coordination with multiple City departments is preferred.
Experience giving presentations to City Council, Boards, and Commissions is preferred.
Training:
High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in public administration, business administration or a closely related filed is preferred.
License or Certificates:
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver License with a satisfactory driving record (a driving record may be deemed unsatisfactory for any of the following reasons: three (3) or more moving violations or reportable accident within the last three (3) years; conviction of driving under the influence within the last five (5) years) is required.
Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid C.P.R. Certificate is required.
Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid First Aid Certificate is required
WORKING CONDITIONS
The following work environment and physical conditions described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions and expectations
Environmental Conditions:
Office and outdoor environment; exposure to computer screens, noise, heat and cold.
Physical Condition:
Essential and marginal functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for walking, standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time; light lifting and carrying.
Application and Exam Information
A completed application, resume, and supplemental questionnaire are required by the closing date and time. As a candidate for the position, you will want to be sure your application accurately reflects your skills and abilities as they relate to the position to achieve maximum opportunity. Applications will be reviewed carefully and only those who appear to have the best qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process.
Minimum requirements must be clearly demonstrated on the application to be considered as this information will be used to determine minimum qualifications. Experience requirements must be demonstrated in the "Work Experience" section of the application; other sections of the application will not be used to determine experience qualifications.
Resumes and other documents may be submitted, however, they will not be used to determine minimum qualifications, please do not use phrases such as "see attached" or "see resume" as they will not be considered. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an invitation to compete further in the process. Minimum requirements must be met at the time of application submission unless stated otherwise.
The selection process: The selection process for this position may include one or more of the following: application review, qualification review, written exam, practical exam, oral panel exam, and department interview.
Candidates must successfully pass each stage of the selection process above in order to continue to the next step. This process may be modified or changed depending on the number of qualified candidates.
Please remember to submit all your application materials by the closing date and time. Incomplete or applications received after the closing date and time cannot be considered. All information on the application is subject to investigation and verification.
For more information on completing your application materials, click here.
If you are ready to join the exciting Team Palm Springs and you meet the requirements detailed above, please click the apply button. For more information, contact Human Resources at:
The City of Palm Springs
3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
www.palmspringsca.gov
760-XXXXXX
Applications will be accepted until July 21, 2026, at 4:00pm. The City of Palm Springs reserves the right to accelerate or extend the "Closing Date" of open positions at any time, dependent upon the number of applications received.
The City of Palm Springs is an equal employment opportunity employer, and we encourage all persons to file applications. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, sex, ****** orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, family or marital status, disability, medical condition or pregnancy, genetic information, religious or political affiliation, or veteran status.
Disaster Service Worker: In accordance with Government Code Section 3100, City of Palm Springs Employees, in the event of a disaster, are considered disaster service workers and may be asked to respond accordingly.
The City of Palm Springs provides a comprehensive benefit program for employees including:
Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
Retiree Health Savings Plan
Life Insurance
Long Term Disability Plan
Employee paid Supplemental Insurance Programs
Employee paid Deferred Compensation Program
Employee Assistance Program
Tuition Reimbursement Program
Retirement Plan through California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS)
Benefit program details vary by work unit and bargaining contracts. Click here to view additional information and bargaining unit contracts.
The City does not participate in the Social Security program, except for the mandatory 1.45% Medicare contribution for all regular positions.
Position Summary
THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THE OPPORTUNITY FOR A
SPECIAL EVENTS MANAGER FOR THE PALM SPRINGS PARK & RECREATION DEPARTMENT!
THE CITY: Palm Springs, located in the Coachella Valley, is known for its luxurious yet relaxed lifestyle. Picture waking up to fresh air, surrounded by palm trees, and enjoying stunning mountain views. This city offers a perfect blend of nature and modern living for both residents and visitors. Palm Springs is ideal for families, offering numerous parks, gardens, and nature reserves for leisurely activities and wildlife encounters. With a wide range of attractions and events, there’s always something fun for everyone in the family. To see the exciting things going on visit the Engage Palm Springs website. The City of Palm Springs is committed to cultivating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace, from policies to inclusive healthcare, and making people of various backgrounds feel welcome and supported. To view our recent Human Rights Campaign, visit the Municipal Equity Index (Download PDF reader) website.
THE POSITION: This position is a member of the Palm Springs Park and Recreation Department. This position manages and coordinates special events and programs; implements program goals and objectives; assist with recreation programming and initiatives; and performs a variety of administrative, professional and technical tasks in support of assigned area of responsibility.
Examples of Essential and General Responsibilities
Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Develop, manage, plan, coordinate and administer the City's special programs, events and recreational programs.
Manage, select, train, schedule, motivate and evaluate staff; provide or coordinate staff training; work with employees to correct deficiencies; implement discipline procedures.
Recommend and develop program goals and objectives; establish schedules and methods for providing programs and events.
Develop and implement policies, procedures, and processes related to areas of responsibilities.
Monitor program performance; recommend and implement modifications to systems and procedures.
Assist in oversight, developments and coordination of recreation program activities including upkeep of recreational facilities and equipment, event set-up, grounds maintenance, custodial services, security and staff supervision.
Schedule usage of various facilities for programs and events including fairs, dances, concerts and shows; provide information and assistance to users of facilities.
Meet with vendors, stakeholders and customers to arrange program and event set-up, security, custodial work, rental facilities, as well as other needed services.
Maintain records and develop reports concerning new or ongoing programs and program effectiveness; maintain records for operations; maintain and file accident and other reports; prepare statistical reports as required.
Coordinate, manage, chair and attend meetings with staff, community, commissions/boards and committees; take and transcribe meeting minutes.
Serve as liaison to various outside groups and organizations to coordinate programs of interest to the City.
Participate in the preparation and administration of assigned budget; submit budget recommendations; monitor expenditures.
Develop survey instruments; conduct surveys of program participants to determine participant needs; interpret and record survey results; implement program changes in response to results.
Maintain awareness of new developments in the field of recreation, special events and programs; incorporate new developments as appropriate into programs.
Assist in the general operations of recreation programs and staff as assigned or in absence of Director.
Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.
Minimum and Preferred Requirements
Minimum requirements must be clearly demonstrated on the application to be considered; however, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an invitation to compete further in the selection process. Experience requirements must be demonstrated in the "Work Experience" section of the application; other sections of the application will not be used to determine experience qualifications. (One year of work experience is the equivalent of 12 months of full-time work. "Full-time work" means at least 36 hours of work over a period of one week or 1,872 hours of work over a period of at least 12 months.) Qualifications noted as "desirable" or "preferred" are not included as part of the minimum requirements.
Experience
Three (3) years of increasingly responsible event planning/management experience which includes one (1) year of administrative supervisory responsibility is required.
Experience in Public sector agency(s) is preferred.
Experience in Parks & Recreation programming is preferred.
Experience in special event logistics and parade management, including coordination with multiple City departments is preferred.
Experience giving presentations to City Council, Boards, and Commissions is preferred.
Training:
High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in public administration, business administration or a closely related filed is preferred.
License or Certificates:
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver License with a satisfactory driving record (a driving record may be deemed unsatisfactory for any of the following reasons: three (3) or more moving violations or reportable accident within the last three (3) years; conviction of driving under the influence within the last five (5) years) is required.
Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid C.P.R. Certificate is required.
Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid First Aid Certificate is required
WORKING CONDITIONS
The following work environment and physical conditions described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions and expectations
Environmental Conditions:
Office and outdoor environment; exposure to computer screens, noise, heat and cold.
Physical Condition:
Essential and marginal functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for walking, standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time; light lifting and carrying.
Application and Exam Information
A completed application, resume, and supplemental questionnaire are required by the closing date and time. As a candidate for the position, you will want to be sure your application accurately reflects your skills and abilities as they relate to the position to achieve maximum opportunity. Applications will be reviewed carefully and only those who appear to have the best qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process.
Minimum requirements must be clearly demonstrated on the application to be considered as this information will be used to determine minimum qualifications. Experience requirements must be demonstrated in the "Work Experience" section of the application; other sections of the application will not be used to determine experience qualifications.
Resumes and other documents may be submitted, however, they will not be used to determine minimum qualifications, please do not use phrases such as "see attached" or "see resume" as they will not be considered. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an invitation to compete further in the process. Minimum requirements must be met at the time of application submission unless stated otherwise.
The selection process: The selection process for this position may include one or more of the following: application review, qualification review, written exam, practical exam, oral panel exam, and department interview.
Candidates must successfully pass each stage of the selection process above in order to continue to the next step. This process may be modified or changed depending on the number of qualified candidates.
Please remember to submit all your application materials by the closing date and time. Incomplete or applications received after the closing date and time cannot be considered. All information on the application is subject to investigation and verification.
For more information on completing your application materials, click here.
If you are ready to join the exciting Team Palm Springs and you meet the requirements detailed above, please click the apply button. For more information, contact Human Resources at:
The City of Palm Springs
3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
www.palmspringsca.gov
760-XXXXXX
Applications will be accepted until July 21, 2026, at 4:00pm. The City of Palm Springs reserves the right to accelerate or extend the "Closing Date" of open positions at any time, dependent upon the number of applications received.
The City of Palm Springs is an equal employment opportunity employer, and we encourage all persons to file applications. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, sex, ****** orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, family or marital status, disability, medical condition or pregnancy, genetic information, religious or political affiliation, or veteran status.
Disaster Service Worker: In accordance with Government Code Section 3100, City of Palm Springs Employees, in the event of a disaster, are considered disaster service workers and may be asked to respond accordingly.
The City of Palm Springs provides a comprehensive benefit program for employees including:
Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
Retiree Health Savings Plan
Life Insurance
Long Term Disability Plan
Employee paid Supplemental Insurance Programs
Employee paid Deferred Compensation Program
Employee Assistance Program
Tuition Reimbursement Program
Retirement Plan through California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS)
Benefit program details vary by work unit and bargaining contracts. Click here to view additional information and bargaining unit contracts.
The City does not participate in the Social Security program, except for the mandatory 1.45% Medicare contribution for all regular positions.
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Special Events Manager position is now open for candidates interested in the Event Management Jobs sector. This role in Palm Springs offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Event Management Jobs is a plus.
