Event Captain - Temp Casual

About the role

This position oversees events, handles set-up and teardown of bars and points of sale. It also responds to customer and vendor needs in a timely and courteous manner. Act as main Arboretum contact for clients and vendors throughout events
Familiarize oneself with unique needs of each event in advance
Respond to questions and requests with hospitality
Enforce Arboretum rules and policies
Manage frontline Arboretum staff throughout events
Manage and assist in set-up of bar, and other venue-provided amenities
Keep bar stocked and resupplied throughout event
Unlock and relock supply rooms as needed
Set up points of sale for bars and concessions
Communicate cleaning, repair, and furniture needs to Arboretum facilities crew
Communicate Security concerns to Arboretum Security team
Manage and assist in bar clean-up and tear-down
Clean up linens at the conclusion of events
Put out and away Arboretum signage as needed
Communicate effectively with Arboretum management
Act in the role of bartender, server, and event staff as needed

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Basic knowledge of food and beverage preparation and service of various alcoholic beverages
• Successfully completed T.I.P.S. Training by first shift
• Ability to obtain any needed government-required license or certificate
• Basic mathematical and computer skills necessary to operate a cash register, make change, total guest checks, count total bank, prepare cash drops, total all other charges, and understand portion sizes
• Ability to read, speak and understand the English language in order to communicate with guests and staff
• Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, memos and to write simple correspondence.
• Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and employees.
• Ability to handle keys and locks

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiar with Arboretum spaces, personnel, and practices
• Available for evenings and weekends
• Previous events experience

Special / Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Sufficient manual dexterity in hands in order to use a knife, pick up glassware and bottles, scoop ice, mix drinks, and reach overhead to retrieve stock.

About The Department

Rooted in plant science and community, we grow knowledge and inspire action to support thriving ecosystems and our vital relationship with nature. The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, part of the University of Minnesota’s College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), is a public garden, research center, and horticultural education institution. Located in Chaska, Minnesota, the Arboretum spans over 1,200 acres of gardens, woodlands, prairies, and trails. Since its founding in 1958, it has served as a community hub and living museum, promoting environmental stewardship, plant conservation, and horticultural excellence. Welcoming over 500,000 visitors annually, the Arboretum advances the University’s land-grant mission through research, education, and public engagement. The Arboretum serves a broad and diverse public audience, offering employees the opportunity to be part of a mission-driven organization that connects people and plants in meaningful ways. Depending on the role, team members may engage with visitors, members, donors, community partners, or volunteers - whether through formal responsibilities or everyday interactions. Volunteers, in particular, are essential collaborators, bringing energy and support to programs, operations, and events. Working at the Arboretum means joining a passionate community dedicated to environmental stewardship, education, and creating an inclusive, welcoming space for all.

Pay And Benefits

Pay Range: $25.00 a hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience. As a University of Minnesota employee, this position cannot accept gratuities
Retailment plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

How To Apply

To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section. To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

About University Of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations. At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.