Event Captain

International Spy Museum; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The International Spy Museum in Washington, D.C. is seeking on-site Event Captains to join our front‑of‑house team. You will manage events, coordinate with caterers, AV, security, and staff, and ensure spaces are prepared and left in the same condition as before.

This role requires excellent communication, a service orientation, and hospitality experience. You will lead load‑in/out, monitor liquor service, and resolve client needs to deliver memorable events.

Qualifications

• College degree preferred; high school degree required.
• Hospitality/event experience preferred.
• Strong verbal communication and customer service focus.
• Basic knowledge of AV.

Responsibilities

• Welcome guests and direct them to spaces.
• Engage with guests and staff in a professional, attentive manner.
• Lead space walk-throughs with caterers before and after events.
• Monitor liquor service; verify licenses; ensure ABC Manager is on site.
• Assist with load-in/load-out and access to spaces.
• Address client needs and coordinate with staff for resolutions.
• Assist with AV support and basic equipment operation.
• Coordinate with Security, Gust Services, and Facilities for access and upkeep.
• Ensure on-time closing and orderly breakdown without space damage.
• Understand Special Event Orders and follow instructions.
• Maintain open communication between caterer, client, and Special Events staff.
• Know event spaces, AV equipment, and space rules.

Skills

Great verbal/communication skills

Customer service focus

Ability to problem-solve

Attention to detail

Collaborative problem-solver

Education

College degree preferred

High School diploma required

Tools

AV equipment

Job description

Job Overview

The International Spy Museum is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to educating the public about the world of espionage and intelligence through exhibits, educational programs, special events, and public outreach. Our Sales and Private Events department seeks on-site event managers to join our front‑of‑house staff. Directly reporting to the Special Events Manager, Event Captains are responsible for managing events on‑site and for reporting any equipment damage, maintenance, or misuse to ensure functionality for upcoming events.

Success Traits

• Good Communicator – Communicates clearly and professionally through speech, writing, and body language to create a positive, constructive message that enhances the client’s experience.
• Collaborative problem‑solver – Seeks understanding and makes smart decisions through consistent effective communication, positive influence, and leading by example.
• Attention to Detail – Good attention to detail keeps events flowing smoothly and clients pleased with the environment.

Responsibilities

• Welcome event guests and direct them to the appropriate space, as needed.
• Approach all encounters with guests and employees in a professional, attentive, friendly, courteous, and service‑oriented manner.
• Lead walk‑through of space with caterer prior to load‑in and after load‑out to ensure the space is left in the exact same condition it was prior to the event.
• Ensure caterer bartenders are serving liquor responsibly, check bartenders for their TIPS/TAM licenses at all events, and ensure that an ABC Manager for ABRA is always on site.
• Assist and manage load‑in/load‑out for caterers and their staff; have access to all Special Event spaces, storage rooms and assigned kitchen spaces.
• Handle caterer requests (unlock spaces needed, direct setup and storage, assist with last‑minute needs like additional chairs, etc.).
• Address client needs (special requests; if significant, contact full‑time event staff for resolution).
• Assist with AV support (adjust music volume, basic room lighting, run microphones, turn off/on projectors and screens, etc.).
• Work with Security to ensure smooth flow and access to appropriate space.
• Work with Gust Services staff for Museum access and access to Museum spaces (such as Operation Spy missions or Scavenger Hunts), when necessary.
• Work with Facilities/Cleaning staff to ensure space is clean and in working order.
• Ensure event closing is on time and break‑down is done in an orderly fashion without damage to the Museum.
• Understand Special Event Orders and follow instructions; understand the event, contacts, caterer’s needs, and specifications.
• Maintain open communication between caterer, client & Special Events staff.
• Be knowledgeable about the Event Spaces, A/V Equipment and rules and regulations of the space.

Minimum Education Required

• College degree preferred.
• High School degree required.

Minimum Experience Required

• Hospitality/Event experience preferred.

Skills Preferred

• Great verbal/communication skills
• A customer service focus
• Ability to problem‑solve
• Basic knowledge of AV

How to Apply

Please submit a cover letter and resume.