Job Details

Bring Community to Life — Join Us as a Special Events Coordinator!

The City of Kentwood is seeking a Special Events Coordinator to support our Parks & Recreation Department. In this role, you’ll create and deliver engaging community events that bring people together and enhance quality of life for residents of all ages.

You’ll manage all aspects of event planning and execution—from logistics and budgeting to staff coordination and customer experience. This position is ideal for someone who is organized, creative, and enjoys working in a fast-paced, people-focused environment while making a visible impact in the community.

What You’ll Do

• Plan, coordinate, and evaluate a variety of indoor and outdoor special events

• Manage event logistics including registration, vendors, supplies, and staffing

• Develop and monitor event budgets and financial reports

• Track participation, feedback, and overall event success

• Communicate event updates, cancellations, and changes to participants and vendors

• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise event staff and volunteers

• Maintain accurate records, reports, and inventory

• Handle cash transactions and basic bookkeeping responsibilities

• Identify and resolve operational issues to ensure successful events

• Provide professional, responsive customer service to the public and internal teams

About You

You’re a detail-oriented and creative professional who enjoys bringing events to life and creating memorable experiences for the community. You’re comfortable managing multiple priorities, working with diverse groups, and leading teams in dynamic environments.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in recreation management, parks administration, or a related field

• Two (2) years of experience in recreation programming, event coordination, or facility operations (or equivalent combination of education and experience)

• Valid Michigan Driver’s License

• CPR/AED/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain within six months)

• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills

• Ability to manage budgets, logistics, and multiple projects simultaneously

• Experience working with diverse populations and providing excellent customer service

• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

• Ability to work in both office and outdoor event environments

For more information about responsibilities and requirements, view the full job description here .

Pay & Benefits

• Hourly pay range: $25.99–$33.20, depending on experience

• 10% employer retirement contribution — well above industry average

• Up to 4 weeks vacation, 12 sick days, 11 holidays, and 3 personal days annually

• 4–6 weeks fully paid parental leave

• Excellent medical, dental & vision insurance with minimal cost

• Free telehealth, EAP access, life insurance, and long-term disability coverage

• Paid certifications, trainings, and career development opportunities

• Employee discounts on recreation programs and rentals

Why join the Kentwood Parks and Recreation team:

The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department enriches the lives of community members through recreational classes, programs, and activities. As well as providing green spaces, a community farmers market, community events, and very soon, a Community Center.

Within Kentwood’s 21 square miles, Parks and Recreation oversees:

• 15 parks covering more than 300 acres

• 13+ miles of non-motorized trails

• Splashpads, pickleball courts, playgrounds, and gathering spaces

• Variety of rental facilities available

• 1000+ recreation programs and community events each year

Apply Today!

If you’re ready to bring your event-planning passion to a role that celebrates community and connection, we’d love to hear from you! Applications will be accepted through June 9th.