Entertainment Supervisor
/ORGANIZATION:
The Butchart Gardens
DEADLINE:
Sept. 14, 2025
ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION:
The Butchart Gardens is one of Canada’s most celebrated horticultural attractions, welcoming visitors from around the world to enjoy its gardens, events, and performances. The organization is dedicated to providing outstanding guest experiences, offering year-round programming including seasonal concerts and special events in one of the country’s most beautiful venues.
WEBSITE:
http://www.butchartgardens.com
JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Butchart Gardens is seeking an experienced entertainment professional to join the Arts & Entertainment team as an Entertainment Supervisor. This position is ideal for someone with a background in live entertainment who thrives on the variety and energy of working directly with performing artists.
Working closely with technical staff and reporting to Arts & Entertainment management, the Entertainment Supervisor will coordinate a dynamic entertainment program, including a 45–50 show summer concert series and December Christmas programming. This role requires a balance of strategic planning, stage work, artist relations, and technical coordination.
This is a full-time, year-round position averaging 40 hours per week. Shifts will be primarily Monday to Friday from September to June, and Wednesday to Sunday during July and August. Evening, weekend, and shift work are required. Work is predominantly outdoors, including in inclement weather.
Starting wage is $37.14 per hour. Remuneration will be commensurate with the level of responsibility and the qualifications of the successful candidate. Following a 6-month probationary period, employees receive 3 weeks’ vacation (plus 2 weeks paid staff holiday during The Gardens’ annual closure), health and dental benefits, a health spending account, and matched RRSP benefits. The position will commence at a mutually agreed upon date.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Work with the department director to manage annual operating and capital entertainment budgets
Book and contract talent for the summer concert series, December Christmas programming, and special events
Ensure booking fees, accommodations, and equipment are within budget and handle all P.O. invoicing for entertainment
Secure accommodations for out-of-town performers
Contract with technical vendors, including sound, lighting, and backline
Supervise and schedule full-time and seasonal stage technicians and the summer concert series staff
Plan and execute stage setup and teardown, including staffing, tent installation, sound, and lighting
Communicate with performers in advance to prepare for technical and hospitality needs
Greet artists, assist with moving gear, onstage setup, sound checks, strike, and loadout
Ensure backstage areas are safe, clean, and stocked with hospitality supplies
Collaborate with the Arts & Entertainment Manager and Visual Arts Supervisor to lead a small team for Christmas installations (depending on expertise)
QUALIFICATIONS:
Demonstrated experience in talent booking with local, national, and international music acts
Familiarity with stage management or similar roles
Working knowledge of stage procedures and equipment, including backline, audio, and lighting
Flexibility in scheduling, including evenings and weekends
Full physical mobility and ability to lift heavy objects
Comfortable working at moderate heights
Ability to safely operate hand and power tools
Public speaking experience
Willingness to obtain Live Performance Electrical Certification or higher
HOW TO APPLY:
Applications will be accepted until Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, at 5 pm. Interested individuals should submit a resume and cover letter to the Human Resources Department, The Butchart Gardens, 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC, V8M 1J8. Fax: (250) 544-4455. Email: hr@butchartgardens.com.
If you have questions, please contact the Human Resources Department. To view a copy of this posting, visit butchartgardens.com/employment.
We sincerely thank all applicants; however, only those short-listed will be contacted. Please note that all candidates must be legally eligible to work in Canada.
REMUNERATION:
Starting from $37.14 per hour