Job Title: Marketing and Events Assistant Organization: Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival Position Type: Full-Time Hourly Rate: $20/hour Benefits: Paid time off, health benefits, 401(k)

About the Organization

The Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit celebrating over 43 years of bringing the community together. What started as a single fireworks show has grown into a week-long festival of more than 20 events, including parades, award ceremonies, drone shows, and our Grand Finale Fireworks. We strive to provide accessible, high-quality events for individuals and families of all backgrounds across Linn County.

Position Summary

The Marketing and Events Assistant is a mission-driven, self-motivated team member who supports the planning, promotion, and execution of Freedom Festival events. This role requires strong communication skills and a community-focused mindset, as relationship-building with partners, volunteers, and organizations is essential to the success of the Festival. The position works closely with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to ensure events run smoothly, volunteers and sponsors are effectively coordinated, and marketing efforts reach and engage the community. This full-time role offers a dynamic and flexible work environment, along with full benefits.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with planning, coordinating, and executing all festival events throughout the year.

• Support marketing efforts, including social media content creation, email campaigns, website updates, and promotional materials.

• Manage sponsorships and donor recognition, ensuring partners receive proper visibility.

• Coordinate volunteers, vendors, and logistics for events.

• Assist with on-site event management, including set-up, registration, and troubleshooting.

• Maintain and update internal tracking systems, including sponsorship and event trackers.

• Help develop creative ideas to enhance event experiences and community engagement.

• Represent the Festival at events and community activations, engaging attendees, answering questions, and promoting Festival programs.

• Evaluate program effectiveness through feedback and contribute ideas that help shape and improve future offerings.

Qualifications

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Experience with social media, marketing, or event planning preferred.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with graphic design or website platforms is a plus.

• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and long days during festival events.

• Passion for community engagement and creating inclusive, memorable experiences.

• Outgoing and energetic personality with strong interpersonal skills.

• Previous experience in events, promotions, customer service, or marketing.

• Able to carry and lift 30 pounds or more.

• 2-year Associates degree or more preferred.

Salary & Benefits

• $20/hour

• Paid time off

• Health benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Hybrid flexibility — ability to work from home up to two days per week after an initial onboarding period with the Freedom Festival