Events Manager

Job Title: Event Manager

Organization: FIRST Washington

Location: Hybrid – Remote with In-Person Event Support (Washington & Oregon) and some in person work at our warehouse

Employment Type: Full-Time, Salaried

Reports To: Director of Programs

About FIRST Washington

FIRST Washington (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a nonprofit organization that delivers hands-on, mentor-based STEM programs for students in grades 4–12 through FIRST® LEGO® League, FIRST® Tech Challenge, and FIRST® Robotics Competition programs. We support over 1,100 teams statewide and inspire young people to be science and technology leaders through engaging, competitive events.

Position Summary

The Event Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing high-quality robotics competitions and related events across Washington State. Working closely with staff, volunteers, venue partners, and vendors, this role ensures that all aspects of FIRST Washington events—from logistics to volunteer coordination—are handled smoothly and in alignment with FIRST Washington’s mission and standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Event Planning & Logistics
• Coordinate all logistics for events across multiple FIRST programs (FLL, FTC, FRC)
• Secure and manage venue contracts, permits, vendors, and equipment
• Develop detailed event timelines, site layouts, and contingency plans
• Scout venues for future events across Washington and Oregon
• Volunteer & Team Support
• Work closely with the Volunteer Manager to ensure each event has sufficient, well-trained volunteers
• Provide pre-event information and support to teams, ensuring a positive participant experience
• Event Execution
• Serve as a primary on-site lead for event operations in Washington and Oregon as needed
• Support events remotely as needed
• Manage event setup, troubleshooting, and breakdown
• Maintain a calm, solutions-focused presence under pressure
• Communication & Coordination
• Act as liaison between venue staff, vendors, volunteers, and FIRST Washington program leads
• Collaborate with the marketing team on signage, print materials, and event promotion
• Post-Event Reporting
• Conduct post-event evaluations and debriefs with staff and volunteers
• Track metrics, gather feedback, and recommend improvements

Qualifications

• 3+ years of professional experience in event planning, logistics coordination, or operations (nonprofit or educational events preferred)
• Proven ability to manage large-scale events with many moving parts
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work in a high pressure environment and meet deadlines
• Comfortable working evenings/weekends during the event season (typically November–April)
• Ability to travel across Washington and Oregon; valid driver’s license required
• Proficient with Google Workspace, spreadsheets, and project management tools

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with youth-serving organizations or STEM education
• Familiarity with FIRST programs (FLL, FTC, FRC) or volunteer roles at FIRST events
• Experience with audio/visual or technical production (a plus)
• CPR/First Aid certification and/or experience managing safety protocols

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: $70,000-$75,000
• Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, generous paid time off, flexible scheduling
• Opportunities for professional development and growth within the organization
• Mileage reimbursement and per diem for travel days.