Outdoor Events Manager

Job description

Job Description Job Title: Outdoor Events Manager Division: Programming Department: Outdoor Events Reports to: Programming Director Position Type: Unpaid Volunteer Location: Remote with occasional in-person meetings (location-dependent), expected to be on-site during convention dates, including the day before and the day after for setup and teardown. About Anthro SoCal Anthro SoCal is a community-driven convention celebrating furry fandom through art, performance, gaming, and social connection. Our success depends on the dedication and enthusiasm of our volunteer team. Anthro SoCal was formally known as Another Furry Con in 2024-2025. Position Overview The Outdoor Events Manager is a dynamic leadership role responsible for taking the convention experience outside the walls of the main venue and into the open air. In this position, you will oversee the curation, logistical planning, and live execution of all outdoor programming –including high-profile attractions like the Pool Party, Mini Golf course, food truck plazas, and other specialty outdoor activities. You will bridge the gap between high-level convention strategy and complex field logistics, managing a dedicated team to ensure these open-air spaces remain safe, highly engaging, and organized. If you are a proactive leader who loves unique event coordination, vendor management, and energetic outdoor environments, this role is a perfect match. Time Commitment Year-round: 1-2 hours per month for planning and communication As convention approaches: Gradually increasing to 3-6 hours per week Convention weekend: On-site presence is required with flexible hours Pre and post-convention: On-site presence is required to assist with setup and teardown activities the day before and the day after the event Key Responsibilities Your role will combine high-level logistical coordination and active on-site team leadership: Executive Event Planning: Coordinate directly with ASC leadership teams to conceptualize, plan, and execute a diverse array of outdoor programming, keeping activities aligned with overall convention themes and budgets Specialty Attraction Management: Oversee the logistical planning, equipment sourcing, and flow for specific outdoor zones, including the Pool Party, Mini Golf, and other outdoor activities Team Leadership & Scheduling: Supervise, train, and guide the Outdoor Events Team. You will build and maintain their shift schedules using department spreadsheets, ensuring all outdoor stations and activities are fully staffed Safety & Environment Oversight: Monitor weather conditions and partner with the safety department, venue staff, and medical teams to enforce pool safety, heat hydration measures, and outdoor crowd boundaries Asset Placement & Direction: Direct and oversee the physical placement of all outdoor assets on-site. You will guide contractors, equipment delivery drivers, and staff members on exactly where tents, activities, and structures should go, ensuring alignment with pre-approved planning documents and drawings Qualifications Required: Leadership & Team Management: Proven ability to lead a team, delegate tasks across multiple locations simultaneously, and maintain high team morale in active, outdoor environments Complex Logistical Planning: Strong organizational skills; you must be comfortable managing spreadsheets for asset tracking, reading drawings, and tracking vendor load-in schedules Problem-Solving under Pressure: The ability to "think on your feet" and pivot strategy instantly if weather conditions change, equipment malfunctions, or schedule adjustments occur Professional Communication: Elite interpersonal skills to negotiate with vendors, direct third-party contractors, coordinate with venue safety officials, and manage large crowds firmly and politely Preferred: Fandom & Convention Knowledge: A deep understanding of convention culture and how fans interact with outdoor spaces (such as cosplay etiquette or fursuit-friendly outdoor boundaries) Outdoor Event or Festival Experience: Prior experience planning or managing music festivals, outdoor sporting events, community fairs, or open-air hospitality zones where layout interpretation was required Risk Management Skills: High awareness of heat safety, crowd dynamics, and basic outdoor risk mitigation techniques What We Offer While this is an unpaid volunteer position, we provide: Free convention membership and staff perks Staff hospitality (meals/snacks during your shifts at-con) Exclusive staff events and social opportunities Recognition in convention materials Experience in event management and team leadership A supportive, creative community environment References and recommendation letters upon request Anthro SoCal is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, experiences, and skill levels. All volunteers must be 18 years of age or older.