Program Specialist 3 - Special Events Coordinator

Metro Parks and Recreation Department is a vital part of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, Tennessee, responsible for managing an extensive network of parks, greenways, and recreational facilities. This diverse team oversees nearly 16,000 acres of open space, including 184 parks and 107 miles of greenway, offering a wide range of programs and services to enhance the quality of life for the community. With a mission to provide equitable access to health, wellness, and recreation, Metro Parks delivers after school programs for children, activities for seniors aged 55 and older, cultural arts classes, dog parks, fitness classes, nature programs, sports leagues, ice hockey, art galleries, and much more. The department operates in a fast-paced, multifaceted environment that fosters community engagement, conservation, and recreation. The Special Event Coordinator is a key position within Metro Parks and Recreation that supports the community by facilitating celebrations, festivals, and various special events in the parks. This role serves as the welcoming and knowledgeable point of contact for event organizers, helping them navigate the permitting process, coordinate logistics, and comply with park regulations to ensure safe and successful events. Reporting directly to the Assistant Director for Natural Resources, Special Events & Outdoor Recreation, the coordinator typically works Monday through Friday but must be flexible to accommodate evening and weekend events. The Special Event Coordinator is responsible for managing all aspects of special event permitting — from receiving and evaluating applications to issuing permits — ensuring all applicants meet Metro Parks’ standards and follow requirements. Coordination with multiple internal divisions, such as Parks Police and Maintenance, is necessary to prepare for event logistics. The coordinator also conducts site visits and inspections to assess event feasibility and monitors events to enforce compliance with park rules and safety regulations. Strong communication skills are vital in this role, as the coordinator interacts with internal departments, external organizations, event planners, vendors, and park visitors. They represent the Parks Department in city-wide special event meetings, collaborating with various Metro offices, including the Mayor’s Office, Metro Police Department, Fire Department, Department of Transportation, and the Sports Authority. They also coordinate with prominent local entities like the Nashville Convention and Visitors Corporation, Nashville Downtown Partnership, Country Music Association, Nashville Predators, and Tennessee Titans to support major events. Additionally, the role requires proficiency in managing the financial aspects of special events, including fee proposals, invoicing, payments, and recordkeeping, all in accordance with Metro Parks’ special event fee structure. The coordinator must be highly organized and detail-oriented to efficiently handle a high volume of permits and related tasks while maintaining excellent customer service and a positive, helpful attitude. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial to meet the dynamic demands of this position, including attending onsite and offsite meetings on short notice. Candidates are required to hold a Bachelor's Degree with at least one year of experience in program management or development, although additional experience may be considered in lieu of the educational requirement. A valid driver’s license is mandatory. Metro Nashville Government encourages all qualified individuals, including those with foreign credentials, to apply, and it strives to create an inclusive work environment by offering accommodations for religious observances and disabilities. Residency in Tennessee is required within six months of employment, per Metro Ordinance No. SO94-1078. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the community by helping to create memorable experiences in Metro Parks while supporting public safety, compliance, and community engagement. The Special Event Coordinator job is well-suited to individuals who are organized, communicative, customer service-oriented, and eager to contribute to the vibrant, equitable, and sustainable recreational environment that Metro Parks fosters.

• valid driver license
• bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
• residency in Tennessee within six months of employment
• highly organized and detail oriented
• ability to accurately process high flow of permits in a timely manner
• excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• strong organizational and time management abilities
• customer service orientation with a positive helpful attitude
• flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment