Event Coordinator

Event Coordinator – Join Us in Creating Wow, Wonder and Welcome

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

Full-Time
• Non-Exempt

Are you the type of person who can turn a simple get-together into a magical memory? Do you thrive on creativity, community connection, and a little bit of beautiful chaos? If your answer is "absolutely," then step into our garden—literally—and help us grow unforgettable experiences.

The Botanical Gardens is searching for a self-motivated, energetic, and wildly organized Event Coordinator to bring fresh ideas to life and cultivate events that create wow moments, inspire wonder and are welcoming to all. From fundraising galas and to fun family events, you'll help design moments that bloom long after the event ends.

If you're passionate about people, plants, creativity, and community impact… this might just be your perfect ecosystem.

What You'll Do (a.k.a. Your Daily Adventures)

Create Wow, Wonder & Welcome

• Make every interaction—whether with clients, vendors, partners, or visitors—kind, memorable, and full of Botanical Gardens charm.
• Build warm, professional relationships with clients, caterers, vendors, and community partners.
• Keep communication prompt, positive, and proactive—responding to calls and emails like the opportunity-seeker you are.

Plan Events That Blossom

• Coordinate and execute fundraising events from idea to applause.
• Lead event logistics: vendor coordination, sponsorship outreach, marketing collaboration, set-up, break-down, and everything in between.
• Seek out donations, sponsorships, and unique partnerships that turn good events into great ones.
• Capture photos and videos with your team to help promote events and share the magic.
• Support affiliate organizations with their annual shows and meetings.
• Serve as the day-of coordinator for private events (yes, sometimes you'll help make someone's wedding day bloom).
• Monitor calendars, manage date holds, and keep our event schedule running smoother than a freshly raked garden path.

Cultivate Teamwork & Community

• Model a welcoming environment for visitors and co-workers—from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave.
• Foster open communication, creative idea-sharing, and collaborative problem solving.
• Help maintain a positive, transparent, and inclusive work culture rooted in kindness.
• Support departmental budgeting and long-term planning.
• Represent the Botanical Gardens professionally and passionately to the public.

Evenings, weekends, and some holidays will be part of your schedule—because nature doesn't always operate 9–5, and big events love the weekend and a good sunset.

What You Bring to the Botanical Gardens

Education & Experience

• Associate's degree or relevant experience in hospitality, events, or a related field.
• At least two years of event planning/management experience (non-profit experience = extra awesome).

Skills & Superpowers

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to juggle multiple projects gracefully.
• Excellent communication—written, verbal, and interpersonal.
• Creativity, initiative, and a passion for mission-driven work.
• Determination and persistence in managing deadlines, schedules, and partnerships.
• Proficiency in social media platforms, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Trustworthiness, reliability, and team spirit.
• The ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work indoors/outdoors in varied weather (including Buffalo's summer heat).

Professionalism, Inclusion & Culture

At the Botanical Gardens, we value kindness, respect, fair treatment, and inclusion above all. We're committed to:

• Maintaining professionalism and positivity in all interactions.
• Creating an environment where everyone—staff, visitors, volunteers, and partners—feels welcome.
• Upholding our Mission, Core Values, and the stewardship of our historic conservatory.

Our Mission

Deepening the connection between people and plants through beautiful gardens and extraordinary experiences.

Our Culture

We bring WOW through creativity and innovation, spark WONDER through beauty and curiosity, and offer WELCOME through empathy and inclusion.

Our Core Values

• We are fascinated by plants.
• We create wonder.
• We respect our planet.
• We welcome all.
• We celebrate our legacy.

Benefits

Full-time employees enjoy:

• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Retirement plan with company match
• PTO and vacation time
• Flexible scheduling
• A workplace filled with plants (and people) who care

Ready to help us grow unforgettable experiences?

Apply today and become part of a team dedicated to beauty, community, and connection.