Supervisor for the Agricultural Department (contract position)
Responsible for planning, organization, and execution of all agricultural exhibits, including produce, feature exhibitions, and specialized dates festival for competitive and non-competitive entries. A primary goal of the position is to strengthen ties with the agriculture community, increase participation, and enhance agricultural education programs. Responsibilities include managing exhibit displays, developing rules and awards, arranging judges, coordinating with exhibitors, and promoting the events under the guidance of the Exhibit Managers.
This is a temporary, contract position for the duration of the preparation for and run of the Fair & Date Fest.
Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Annually review the competition handbooks, divisions, classes, rules, premium lists, contests, and demonstrators, including planning, logistics, and setup, before and during the Fair. Determine if fees and award payout are kept current, relevant, and aligned with industry standards.
2. Collaborate closely with the Exhibits Department Fair Managers to verify exhibitors' entries are correctly submitted, ensuring precision in applications, exhibiting display labels, and other data within ShoWorks, ensuring that judging results are accurately recorded and posted online for public viewing.
3. Be available and present during the Riverside County Fair and other events during off-time if necessary.
4. Contact prospective exhibitors, provide guidance, and foster community engagement with the agriculture sector.
5. Advise and consult with agricultural exhibitors on suitable methods for display, arranging their exhibits, and ensuring their participation is successful.
6. Develop and coordinate the layout, design, and installation of competitive and special exhibits, including educational displays and thematic elements.
7. Serve as primary contact for exhibitor questions, ensuring consistent interpretation of rules.
8. Recruit, schedule, and coordinate judges; prepare judging criteria and materials.
9. Plan the exhibit area, display layout, signage, and case assignments.
10. Schedule and support live demonstrations and interactive elements.
11. Train and direct exhibit staff in appropriate exhibit operations and guest service.
12. Order exhibit supplies and equipment.
13. Coordinate set-up, maintenance, and tear-down of exhibits, including assisting with Exhibit Managers' scheduling, manpower, and assigning tasks to exhibit attendants.
14. Oversee entry receiving/check-in, classification, and secure storage.
15. Direct judging processes, reconcile awards, and coordinate receptions.
16. Perform manual labor involved in the installation of the exhibit, which may include using tools and equipment.
17. Lead safe handling and installation of exhibits; maintain exhibit cleanliness and display standards.
18. Coordinate orderly entry release/check-out, verify identity, and document any damages.
19. Respond to verbal and written questions and concerns in a timely and knowledgeable manner
manner.
20. Practice and direct others in correct physical work methods and established standards; maintain a safe work environment.
21. Responsible for giving a written Fair report for your department.
22. Use and direct others to use personal protective equipment (e.g., gloves, goggles) properly.
23. Perform other related duties as assigned or requested when needed.
Qualifications
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Ability to direct staff/volunteers in fast-paced environments.
- Experience coordinating exhibits or events preferred with 2- 5 years.
- Have a keen knowledge of the region on citrus fruits, vegetables, dates, and feature exhibits
- Knowledge of competition/exhibit subject preferred.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
- Customer service skills with a calm problem-solving approach.
Working Conditions
- Seasonal, part-time schedule starting in October through mid-March, with peak hours during Fair time, when weekends and some evenings are required.
- Stand/walk for extended periods. Lift to 30 lbs. Push/pull heavy objects.
- Indoors and outdoors in both climate-controlled and non-climate-controlled spaces.
- Exposure to weather conditions, including fluctuating temperatures.
- Exposure to dust, food smells, and animal smells.
Pay range starting at $4,500
To apply, please email your name, contact information, and resume to Yasselen@pickering.event. Make sure to state what position(s) you are applying for.