Find & Apply For Event Planner Jobs in Lead, South Dakota

As an Event Onsite Lead, you will play a key role in supporting the successful execution of Water Lantern Festival events. This is a hands-on, travel-based opportunity for individuals who are comfortable working in fast-paced environments, solving problems in real time, and taking ownership of onsite event operations. You can expect long, rewarding event days filled with hands-on work, from setup to teardown. When plans change or unexpected issues arise, you'll use sound judgment, prioritize what needs attention, and help keep the event moving forward. About Water Lantern Festival Our core focus is to connect humanity by creating positive worldwide events. Water Lantern Festival is an incredible experience where you, your friends, and your family will create a magical memory together. It can be a very emotional experience, writing down some of your hope and dreams, or a letter to a loved one, and then sending it out into the water. At Water Lantern Festival, we cherish these moments and will do our best to help you have an memorable experience that you'll never forget. Description Event Onsite Lead Independent Contractor | 1099 About Water Lantern Festival Water Lantern Festival is a community-focused event that brings people together to celebrate creativity, connection, and hope through the beauty of lantern-lit waters. We are seeking dependable and experienced Event Onsite Leads to provide onsite leadership and operational support and help ensure our events run smoothly. Job Summary As an Event Onsite Lead, you will play a key role in supporting the successful execution of Water Lantern Festival events. This is a hands-on, travel-based opportunity for individuals who are comfortable working in fast-paced environments, solving problems in real time, and taking ownership of onsite event operations. You can expect long, rewarding event days filled with hands-on work, from setup to teardown. When plans change or unexpected issues arise, you'll use sound judgment, prioritize what needs attention, and help keep the event moving forward.

Key Responsibilities Event Operations:

Provide onsite leadership and support with event setup, execution, and teardown, including lantern distribution, guest check-in, and site preparation.

Onsite Coordination:

Help coordinate event staff, vendors, volunteers, and other onsite partners to ensure event activities are completed efficiently and on schedule.

Guest Interaction:

Provide friendly, professional assistance to attendees, answer questions, and help resolve issues to create a positive guest experience.

Problem Solving:

Assess and respond to operational challenges in real time, identify practical solutions, and escalate significant issues when appropriate.

Logistics Assistance:

Support event logistics, including inventory checks, equipment handling, supplies, and other operational needs.

Event Leadership:

Take initiative, identify issues that need attention, and help ensure event operations remain organized and on track.

Equipment & Inventory:

Help ensure event equipment and supplies are properly secured, accounted for, and transferred following the event.

Team Collaboration:

Work collaboratively with event personnel and onsite partners to support a positive and organized event environment. Qualifications Must be 18 years or older. Prior experience in event operations, hospitality, customer service, logistics, team leadership, or a similar fast-paced environment preferred. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to make sound decisions and remain calm under pressure. Strong problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Ability to take initiative and work independently. Organized, dependable, and accountable. Availability to travel for assigned events, including weekends. Ability to lift up to 25 pounds, stand for extended periods, and work outdoors in varying weather conditions. Positive attitude and willingness to take a hands-on approach to event operations. Independent Contractor Opportunity This is a 1099 independent contractor opportunity and is not an employee position. Event assignments may vary based on business needs and contractor availability. Contractors are responsible for their own taxes, insurance, licenses, and other obligations associated with operating as an independent contractor. Specific event assignments, compensation, and other terms will be outlined in a separate independent contractor agreement. Salary $23 - $29 per hour