Concert Logistics Intern

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park promotes the enjoyment, understanding, and appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment, and the arts. Meijer Gardens is ranked among the 100 most visited art institutions in the world. The organization embraces the concept of a major cultural attraction centering around horticulture & sculpture. Meijer Gardens' commitment is to create a legacy of lifelong learning, enjoyment, and a rich cultural experience for generations to come. 

Department: Special Events & Performing Arts                                  

Supervisor: Performing Arts Manager                                            

This is a paid internship, paid bi-weekly.

Schedule and Duration: Approximately 25–30 hours per week, with hours primarily scheduled mid-day to evening, including weekends.

All interns must be available for a minimum of 10 weeks between June and August and participate in the required internship program sessions. These sessions are held every Wednesday for 3 hours and are included as part of your weekly schedule.

Position Summary: The Concert Logistics Intern will gain hands-on experience exploring live concert operations at the Amphitheater. This role provides meaningful exposure to both front-of-house and back-of-house event management while contributing to a seamless and engaging experience for performers and guests. The intern will analyze event workflows, design practical solutions to operational challenges, and actively engage in concert logistics before, during, and after performances.

Essential Functions

Explore box office operations by analyzing ticket sales processes and guest service strategies during concert nights.

Evaluate hospitality standards in Green Rooms and the Merchandise Room, identifying ways to maintain organization, efficiency, and performer satisfaction.

Assess the front-of-house guest experience, including accessible seating and volunteer coordination, and recommend improvements when appropriate.

Design and implement efficient rental chair layout and placement strategies that enhance guest flow and comfort.

Observe and analyze sound check protocols and venue security procedures to understand risk management and operational timing.

Examine load-in and load-out procedures for performers, including Tuesday Evening Music Club events, to better understand production logistics and coordination.

Collaborate with the Concerts & Events team to identify operational opportunities and contribute thoughtful solutions in real time.

Learning Outcomes:

Develop an understanding of how front-of-house and back-of-house operations integrate to support successful concert and event execution.

Gain hands-on experience by observing live performances, including Fifth Third Bank Summer Concert Series and Ayers Basement Systems Tuesday Evening Music Club shows, to learn operational workflows and audience engagement strategies.

Participate in a project focused on attracting younger audiences to performing arts events by analyzing guest demographics, evaluating current programming, and proposing strategies for growth.

Enhance skills in event evaluation, audience research, and strategic planning within the performing arts context.

Requirements:

Enrolled in a trade, degree, or certificate program at an accredited institution.

• Available for a minimum of 10 weeks of in-person intern programming in Grand Rapids, MI.
• Ability to commit to scheduled work hours and program requirements.
• Strong interest in learning and professional development.
• Customer service experience in a public-facing environment (events, retail, box office, hospitality, or similar) preferred.
• Coursework or interest in event management, music, performing arts, marketing, communications, or nonprofit management.

Organizational Expectations

• Welcoming: Fostering joy and an inclusive and accessible environment for everyone.
• Excellence: Approaching all we do with world-class intentionalism.
• Innovation: Embracing the future to create unique and engaging experiences in art, culture, and nature with a commitment to creativity.
• Integrity: Operating with honesty, transparency, and accountability throughout the organization.
• Stewardship: Preserving and enhancing our community, physical, cultural, and financial resources for current and future generations.

Working Conditions: Basic mobility is expected in offices, grounds, and exhibition areas. Ability to observe details at close range and communicate information accurately with others. Engage in occasional object manipulation with or without assistance, and efficiently navigate the workspace to access essential resources. Ability to regularly move up to 20 pounds and frequently up to 50 pounds (i.e., load, unload, and move supplies, medium to heavy-weight tools, and equipment). Occasionally ascends/descends a ladder. This job operates in a professional indoor office environment, across grounds, and exhibition areas. Occasionally, may be required to work outdoors under inclement weather conditions.

As part of our onboarding process, all new hires are required to complete our background check.Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer.We believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.