State Fair Event Manager

This is a temp/casual position; work would occur over approximately twelve days.

Job duties for this position include the following:

• Serve as the main building contact in partnership with University Event Manager, Anna Abbott.
• Open or close the exhibit daily (depending on schedule): Unlock and prepare the space in the morning; secure and shut down at night.
• Manage all student workers and volunteers.
• Oversee exhibitor shift transitions and assist with booth setup.
• Organize daily giveaways and replenish materials (giveaways, informational brochures, signage, etc.).
• Coordinate stage needs with participants and the emcee onsite
• Maintain a clean, organized space, including monitoring the chalkboard wall (restocking chalk, wiping down, ensuring appropriate content).
• Answer visitor questions and engage with fairgoers.
• Work with Fair, University facilities teams, and Athletics to address any operational needs.
• Organize booth materials for new booth occupants daily.
• Other duties as assigned or needed by the University Marketing Communications staff.

MUST be available to work all 12 days between August 21-Sep 1 (MN State Fair) with morning and afternoon shifts scheduled between 7 am and 9:15 pm.

Required Qualifications

• Must be able to lift up to 50lbs and be on your feet for extended periods.
• Must be able to provide own transportation to the fairgrounds.
• Detail-oriented, organized and dependable.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must have a strong work ethic

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing events, exhibits, or public activations.
• Leadership experience supervising staff or volunteers.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with University of Minnesota programs is a plus.

University Marketing Communications is the central marketing communication department serving the University of Minnesota system. UMC reports to the University of Minnesota President and its primary functions are marketing, public relations, and communications.

Pay Range: $50.00 - $52.00 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).