Festival Assistant, Theater Operations.

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Festival Assistant, Theater Operations based in the United States.

We are seeking an organized, proactive, and detail-oriented Festival Assistant to support the planning and execution of theater operations for a major film festival. In this temporary role, you will contribute to the smooth daily running of assigned festival venues while helping create a welcoming and seamless experience for artists, audiences, volunteers, and staff. Working closely with the Theater Operations leadership team, you will coordinate logistics, manage equipment and supplies, support venue preparation, and oversee essential operational schedules. You will also collaborate with multiple departments to ensure theaters are properly equipped, organized, and ready for screenings and special events. This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in large-scale event operations within a collaborative and fast-paced cultural environment. The position runs from December 2, 2026, to February 5, 2027, with a full-time schedule of 40 hours per week.

Accountabilities

Support pre-festival planning and implementation activities to ensure efficient theater operations and positive audience experiences.
Coordinate the ordering, preparation, transportation, and delivery of supplies and equipment to assigned festival venues.
Assist with theater load-in and load-out activities, ensuring spaces are properly prepared before and after festival operations.
Work alongside the Festival Coordinator to oversee daily runner schedules and maintain accurate equipment and supply delivery logs.
Collaborate with the Volunteer Resources team to coordinate, update, communicate, and track daily volunteer runner schedules.
Assist with ordering, organizing, and distributing theater signage and other operational materials across assigned venues.
Support the setup and organization of the temporary Theater Operations Festival Office and additional event spaces as required.
Distribute film posters to designated theaters in coordination with the Press Office.
Maintain accurate team contact information, including phone numbers, schedules, assignments, and work locations.
Collect and manage theater keys from volunteers and other departments to ensure appropriate access control.
Prepare and distribute festival mobile phones to team members, including programming devices as instructed.
Assist with rental vehicle fleet logistics and coordinate transportation-related operational needs.
Help update, organize, and prepare training materials for the Theater Operations Department.
Support operational planning activities, including timelines, inventory management, supply orders, and special screening preparations.
Prepare and submit a comprehensive written wrap report documenting activities, outcomes, and relevant operational feedback.
Requirements
At least 1 year of relevant professional experience in event operations, theater management, logistics, administration, customer service, or a related field.
Valid driver's license and successful completion of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) background check.
Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
Strong organizational and time-management abilities, combined with exceptional attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, coordinate schedules, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Strong problem-solving skills and the flexibility to adapt quickly to changing operational needs.
Team-oriented mindset, with the ability to motivate colleagues, build positive working relationships, and contribute to shared objectives.
Proactive and reliable approach to completing tasks, maintaining accountability, and supporting team success.
Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records, schedules, inventory logs, and operational documentation.
Physical ability to lift and transport items weighing up to 50 lbs.
Legal authorization to work in the United States.
Availability to work full-time (40 hours per week) from December 2, 2026, through February 5, 2027.
Flexibility to work extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as well as respond to assigned on-call needs.
Ability to work onsite in a hybrid capacity from the Boulder, Colorado office throughout the employment period.
Benefits
Hourly compensation: $19.29 per hour.
Paid time off: Paid sick leave to support employee well-being.
Paid holidays: Eligibility for Institute holidays.
Employee assistance program: Access to resources and support services.
Wellness initiatives: Participation in employee wellness programs and activities.
Festival access: Sundance Film Festival passes and related benefits, varying from year to year.
Professional experience: Hands-on exposure to large-scale festival operations, venue coordination, and event logistics.
Collaborative environment: Opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals and contribute to a major cultural event.
Employment type: Temporary, full-time position with a 40-hour weekly schedule.