The Event Coordinator plays a vital role in advancing Gulf Coast Humane Society's (GCHS) mission by planning, organizing, and executing a diverse portfolio of events - from weekly offsite adoption events across the Coastal Bend region to in-shelter community gatherings and support for large-scale signature fundraisers. This full-time position is a driver of GCHS's community presence and event programming, working cross-functionally with staff, volunteers, and external partners to ensure every event reflects the organization's values and goals.

Schedule & Work Structure:

Because offsite adoption events are primarily held Friday through Sunday, this position operates on a flex schedule of 30-40 hours per week. Scheduling will be coordinated with the supervisor to ensure operational needs are met while balancing shifting event-planning timelines. Some evening availability may be required for community events or signature event obligations. The Event Coordinator is responsible for:

Offsite Adoption Events:

Research and identify event opportunities and venues across Nueces, Jim Wells, San Patricio, Aransas, and Kleberg counties. Build and maintain the offsite event calendar, ensuring events are scheduled strategically and aligned with organizational priorities. Prepare and organize all event supplies, including animals, animal care items, giveaway items, flyers, and promotional materials. Coordinate with the clinic team, dog behavior team, adoption floor team, and front office team to identify and prepare animals for attendance, with a focus on health, safety, and appropriate temperament. Drive a company vehicle to and from event locations safely and responsibly; set up and break down vendor spaces, including tents, kennels, tables, and signage. Facilitate off-site adoptions, including conducting introductions between animals and potential adopters, explaining adoption procedures, and completing required follow-up. Engage the public in a warm, knowledgeable, and professional manner, speaking confidently about GCHS events, policies, programs, and services.

In-Shelter Community Events:

Coordinate logistics for in-shelter events held in the GCHS community room, including volunteer appreciation events, puppy or kitten shower, donor stewardship gatherings, and other one-off community events. Work with the Marketing and Development team (and other teams when applicable) to help coordinate event setup, décor, supplies, and day-of activities to create a welcoming and memorable experience. Work hand in hand with other internal teams to ensure their event needs are met; act as a resource to the team to help make the event a success for the organization and the public.

Volunteer Coordination:

Recruit, schedule, and manage volunteers for both offsite adoption events and in-shelter community events. Provide clear direction, training, and on-site support to ensure volunteers are well-informed, confident, and effectively contributing to event goals. Foster a positive volunteer experience that encourages ongoing engagement with GCHS. Signature Event Support (As Capacity Allows):

Pawfest:

Assist with outreach to small business vendors, artisans, and food trucks; coordinate vendor communication, applications, and logistics; support day-of setup and vendor management. Fur a

Good Paws:

Obtain quotes from catering, décor, and other event vendors; assist with general event preparation, communication, and coordination as directed; support logistics and on-site coordination during the event. The ideal candidate will have the majority of the skills and qualities outlined below: Experience in event planning, coordination, or community outreach. Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple events and priorities simultaneously. Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills; comfortable speaking confidently with the public, key stakeholders, or the media about GCHS's mission, programs, and services. Ability to strategically plan event locations, timing, and target audiences to maximize community impact. Experience working with or managing volunteers. Comfortable handling dogs and cats of varying temperaments and providing basic animal care. Valid driver's license and clean driving record; ability to operate a company vehicle. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs as needed for event setup and breakdown. Flexibility to work a non-traditional schedule, including Fridays, weekends, and occasional evenings. Applicant must be at least 18 years of age.

Working Conditions:

Regular travel to event locations throughout Nueces, Jim Wells, San Patricio, Aransas, and Kleberg counties. Frequent physical activity, including loading and unloading supplies and setting up and breaking down event spaces outdoors and indoors. Exposure to animals, including dogs and cats of various handling levels. Flex schedule of 30-40 hours per week, with primary working days on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; remaining hours distributed across the week as needed.

Background Check Requirement:

All employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Applicants must be able to meet the organization's background screening requirements as a condition of employment.

Pay:

$13.00 - $14.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person