Event Operations Assistant at Whitman College

Whitman College; Walla Walla, Northern (WA, KY); Hybrid; USD 23,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Whitman College invites applications for an Event Operations Assistant to support campus events. The role involves setting up and breaking down spaces, moving furniture, and handling AV equipment while working with event planners and other staff.

Ideal candidates are Whitman College students who can stand for long periods, lift heavy items, and cooperate with a team to ensure smooth operations during evenings or weekends as events require.

Qualifications

• Ability to lift and carry objects up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand, walk, or be active for extended periods.
• Ability to work in physically demanding environments, including event setup and teardown.
• Currently enrolled Whitman College student.

Responsibilities

• Assist with setting up and breaking down event spaces according to instructions.
• Move tables, chairs, and AV equipment; arrange furniture as specified.
• Dismantle and pack up equipment after events.
• Maintain and organize equipment to prepare for future events.

Skills

Lifting & moving

Stand for long periods

Team collaboration

Adaptability

Physical stamina

Education

Whitman College student

Job description

JOBTITLE: Event Operations Assistant
PAY RANGE: $17.13-17.13/ Hour
START DATE: Fall 2026

JOB PURPOSE

The Event Operations crew is an integral part of the Office of Conferences, Events, and Scheduling. Direct responsibilities include following written and verbal instructions to assist with specific event set-up/break-down requests, including setting up stages, moving tables, setting chairs, etc., for various campus events.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

Event Set-Up & Breakdown

• Lift and Move Equipment: Assist with loading, unloading, and setting up event materials (e.g., tables, chairs, signs, AV equipment) that may require lifting, carrying, or moving heavy items.
• Furniture Arrangements: Physically set up and arrange seating, tables, and booths according to event specifications. This may involve standing, bending, lifting, and adjusting furniture over an extended period.
• Dismantling: After the event, assist with breaking down the event space, packing up equipment, and clearing the venue.
• Equipment Maintenance: Assist in cleaning, repairing, and organizing equipment in preparation for future events.

Physical Requirements

• Strength & Stamina: Ability to lift and move heavy objects (up to 50 lbs or more) and stand or walk for long periods of time.
• Endurance: Ability to remain physically active for extended hours, including bending, lifting, and walking around large event spaces.
• Agility: Flexibility to work in different environments, such as crowded areas or tight spaces, and the ability to navigate quickly between locations.
• Team Collaboration: Must be able to work effectively as a team, contributing to collective tasks that require physical coordination.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team, collaborating with event planners, vendors, and fellow assistants to ensure smooth operations..
• Flexibility and willingness to pitch in however needed: plans change and demands pivot quickly, whether it's setting up, helping guests, or cleaning up afterward.

Interpersonal Skills

• Strong interpersonal skills to interact with a diverse group of people, including students, faculty, staff, and guests.
• Ability to maintain a professional and positive attitude, even during busy or challenging situations.

Attention to Detail

• Ensuring all equipment is set up accurately and safe for event participants to use.
• Monitoring event spaces to ensure cleanliness, comfort, and functionality.

Adaptability & Flexibility

• Willingness to adapt to changing event plans, unexpected guest needs, or last-minute adjustments.
• Ability to work varying hours, including evenings or weekends, based on event schedules.

EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS TO BE DERIVED BY STUDENTS IN THIS JOB

Participating in event support offers students valuable educational benefits by helping them develop a wide range of practical skills that are transferable to various professional settings. Through hands-on experience, students enhance their time management, teamwork, problem‑solving, communication, and customer service abilities. These skills not only improve their academic performance but also prepare them for future career opportunities by providing real-world experience and building professional networks. By engaging in event support roles, students gain essential insights into organizational processes and technical operations, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence needed for future success.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to lift and carry objects up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand, walk, or be active for extended periods.
• Ability to work in physically demanding environments, including event setup and teardown.
• Currently enrolled Whitman College student.

SUPERVISOR NAME: Alan Saldana, Equipment Coordinator
SUPERVISOR PHONE NUMBER: [phone]
DATE POSTED: August 19, 2026