Events & Programs Coordinator

Background

The Gibsons Community Building Society (GCBS) is a not-for-profit society that operates the Gibsons Public Market (GPM) and the Nicholas Sonntag TidePools Aquarium. Gibsons Public Market is a vibrant hub of coastal life. It is a community project that inspires and supports economic activities in the region and is a destination for Sunshine Coast residents and visitors where all are welcome to convene, learn, and enjoy local food, fresh produce, art and entertainment. It provides space for community activities, gatherings, workshops, a marine education centre, a community kitchen, and a bistro. The Nicholas Sonntag TidePools Aquarium features a collect-and-release aquarium home to over 200 creatures representing 70+ species, collected from the pristine waters of Átl'ka7tsem | Howe Sound and Sechelt Inlet. The aquarium is designed to showcase the mystery, wonder, and magic of the fantastic undersea world at our doorstep, inviting visitors to discover how the ocean connects us to all of life and to one another. It is open to the public, private tours, and other special events. It provides curriculum-based experiential marine education to students and educational day camps for children.

Job Overview

The Events & Programs Coordinator is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing Gibsons Public Market's community events and programs, working under the guidance and direction of the Events & Programs Manager. This role supports a wide range of initiatives, including, but not limited to, the Sunshine Coast Beer Fest, Wellness Fest, Summer Night Market Series, Demo & Dines, the Lower G Market, and Winter Fest, as well as seasonal programs such as Pro-D Day Camps, Summer Market Camps, and other pop-up events and programs delivered throughout the year.

Who You Are

You are well-suited to this role if you are seeking dynamic, community-focused work in a fast-paced and collaborative environment. You enjoy a balance of desk-based responsibilities—both logistical and creative—paired with hands-on, active work. You are highly organized, detail-driven, and value being part of a supportive and engaged team. You take pride in your professionalism and are committed to delivering high-quality work. You care deeply about doing things well, leaving systems and spaces better than you found them, and upholding a strong personal and organizational reputation. Those who know you would describe you as personable, reliable, and attentive to detail. You are able to assess complex situations and make thoughtful decisions efficiently, remaining calm and effective under pressure. Problem-solving comes naturally to you, and you are persistent in finding solutions. You are comfortable following up when needed—whether that means sending a second email or picking up the phone—and you understand the importance of clear communication. You work well with a wide range of people and place a high value on customer service and positive relationships. You are a team player who is not afraid to pitch in wherever needed, including rolling up your sleeves for hands-on or behind-the-scenes work. You are flexible, adaptable, creative, confident, and bring a mature, solutions-oriented approach to your work.

RESPONSIBILITIES

EVENT & PROGRAMS COORDINATION

● Support the planning, coordination, and execution of GCBS community events and programs under the direction of the Events & Programs Manager.

● Assist in delivering annual events, including festivals, markets, workshops, and pop-up events, ensuring each event is well-organized, welcoming, and aligned with organizational goals.

● Coordinate event logistics, including timelines, run-of-show documents, floor plans, equipment needs, permits, licenses, and vendor requirements.

● Manage communication with vendors, performers, facilitators, sponsors, volunteers, and partners, providing clear instructions and timely follow-up.

● Support vendor and participant application processes, confirmations, onboarding materials, and on-site needs.

● Assist with event marketing and promotion, including providing content, schedules, and logistical details to the marketing team and supporting on-site signage and wayfinding.

● Provide hands-on event support during set-up, event delivery, and tear-down, including

troubleshooting issues as they arise.

● Maintain accurate records related to events, including contracts, permits, vendor lists, schedules, and post-event notes.

● Plan and promote GPM's childrens programs, camps and classes.

● Plan and promote adult classes and workshops.

● Launch registrations and manage the booking process, orientate support staff and participate in and oversee the program delivery.

● Contribute to a positive, collaborative team environment and assist with general operational tasks as required to support successful event and program delivery.

CUSTOMER SERVICE (as required)

As a small community non-profit organization, all employees wear many hats. While each employee has clear responsibilities, we also expect that employees are willing to be adaptable and support the greater needs of the organization as required. Each coordinator is expected to work 1 day a week at our public-facing customer service desk. This provides critical support to the organization and allows team members to interact with the community and play a more holistic role in the overall operation of the organization. Customer service tasks include:

● Working at the customer service desk for the building (generally 1-2 days a week)

● Opening and closing the building

● Monitoring the tidiness of the building and addressing any concerns

● Answering and directing phone calls and in-person inquiries

● Facilitating daily sales, memberships, and aquarium admissions

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

● Education and/or training in event production

● 1–2 years of work experience in event coordination or event support roles

● Exceptional interpersonal skills; approachable, friendly, and comfortable engaging with the public

● Highly observant, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously

● Strong verbal and written English communication skills

● Interest in supporting meaningful community and environmental work

● Team-oriented, confident in asking questions, and capable of basic problem-solving

● Comfortable and intuitive with computers and standard office software (e.g., Canva)

● Cash handling experience, including point-of-sale systems (e.g., Square) and balancing day sales

● Ability to follow directions while also working independently

● Other duties may be assigned as required

WORKING CONDITIONS

● Primarily onsite work at Gibsons Public Market

● Must be available to work weekends and occasional evenings, based on event schedules

● The position involves a mix of administrative tasks and hands-on event work, including

time spent standing, walking, lifting, and moving equipment during event setup and

takedown.

● A valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle are considered assets.

Benefits: 3 weeks paid vacation, $100/month health supplement, $50/month phone supplement, various discounts with Gibsons Public Market merchants.

Application Deadline: January 3, 2026

Potential Start Date: Late January 2026

To Apply: Please email your cover letter and resume to

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $42,900.00-$48,750.00 per year

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Education:

• Secondary School (preferred)

Language:

• English (required)

Work Location: In person