Events Staff

POSITION: Event Staff

REPORTS TO: Director of Event Sales & Operations

START DATE: May 1, 2024

DURATION: 6 Months, Variable Hour/Contracted

LOCATION: Thompson Island – Boston, MA

Who are we?

Thompson Island Outward Bound is a National and State Park located in the heart of the Boston Harbor Islands, With a 200-year legacy of serving children in Boston and a 48-year partnership with the Boston Public Schools (BPS), the Island is a beacon for experiential education, empowering young people through hands-on learning and skill building and outdoor adventure and exploration. We are a proud member of the network of 11 Outward Bound schools in the U.S., with a shared mission to change lives through challenge and discovery.

Education is at the forefront of our work. Funded by a combination of philanthropy and a robust private events business, our outdoor educational programs are offered at no cost to families.

What is our mission and how do we achieve it?

Thompson Island Outward Bound’s core mission is to build stronger, more equitable school communities by delivering free experiential learning programs that boost academic success and foster personal growth. Our research-based programs blend STEM, social-emotional, and challenge-based learning, giving students a unique opportunity to build life skills alongside academic ones.

Whom do we serve (students, clients, customers)

We offer programs for Boston Public School middle school and high school students, fee-for-service programs for school and youth groups, and leadership development programs for professionals. We also fund our transformational programs by hosting private and corporate events and weddings.

POSITION SUMMARY

Thompson Island Outward Bound Education Center (TIOBEC) is an independent Massachusetts not-for-profit organization. We serve over 6,500 early adolescents annually from all economic and social communities of greater metropolitan Boston, and the institutions and adults who support them.

Event Staff members are responsible for the set-up and breakdown of event sites for all corporate gatherings and weddings on Thompson Island, inclusive of setting up tables, chairs, bar(s), buffet line, sports equipment, lawn games, Adirondack chairs, special requests, and trash cans & liners. Events Staff are also responsible for cleaning event spaces following all events to ensure spaces are ready for use the following day. Event Staff must be proficient in customer service and willing to engage all clients in an informed and friendly manner. Events Staff must work efficiently and quickly to ensure that clients are satisfied with all aspects of service in a timely and professional manner. Attention to detail is extremely important in this role, as this position is fast-paced and dynamic. Attention to personal hygiene and cleanliness of the workspace in line with Massachusetts food safety standards is also very important.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and understand the Thompson Island “Event Order” outlining all aspects of the event including meal, beverage service & special requests
• Support the Events Manager in all aspects of set-up, client service and clean up
• Communicate professionally with guests and staff, answering questions and facilitating a pleasant dining experience
• Additional Responsibilities as assigned

ACCOUNTABILITIES

Key Relations:

• Event Staff
• Kitchen staff
• Executive Chef
• Sous Chef

QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working in a customer-service related industry, preferably the food industry
• Willingness to learn food service and hospitality proposals
• Understanding of Thompson Island Outward Bound Education Center and its mission
• Able to respond to customers in a professional and timely manner
• Basic understanding of Island operations and location of facilities, or willingness to learn
• Ability to follow direction
• Ability to anticipate potential problems and communicate effectively with clients and colleagues
• Able to maintain professional communication with colleagues
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, hot, crowded environment while maintaining a positive attitude

• MA TIPS Certification preferred

WORK CONDITIONS

• Willingness to take a 25-minute boat ride to and from Thompson Island as part of the daily commute, and to assist, when able in unloading cargo to/from the ferry
• Ability to work non-traditional hours including early mornings, late nights, and weekend work

• This position requires a criminal background check

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to lift 75 lbs.
• Must be able to remain on feet and/or stay active for 8+ hours per day
• Applicants aged 21+ are preferred

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Competitive hourly pay, plus gratuities. Earned Sick Time. 401K retirement plan with competitive match once pre-requisites are met. Worker’s Compensation Insurance. Access to professional discount programs for gear and clothing. Temporary housing provided on Thompson Island for positions that necessitate.

Thompson Island Outward Bound Education Center is an equal-opportunity employer and actively seeks staff as diverse as the communities it serves. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Outward Bound has a zero-tolerance policy for incidents of child abuse and neglect. Protecting our minor students against abuse and neglect is of the highest priority.