Come and help us bring Winter Lights Magic to life at The North Carolina Arboretum! We are currently seeking several new team members to work as Winter Lights Installers on our Winter Lights Installation Crew to get the 2026 show underway.
This position works on a crew to execute the design plan created by the Winter Lights Design Team for the 2026 Winter Lights Show at The North Carolina Arboretum. Crew members report to and will be directed with day-to-day tasks and workflow by the Special Events Supervisor and/or Installation Lead. Preference will be given to applicants who are able to commit for the duration of the project, including Installation, Show Operation/ Maintenance, and De-Installation. Applicants should be able to work both independently and collaboratively. They must also be flexible based on weather and use of Arboretum property by other Departments. This position will run from August through February at 40 hours per week, with potential flexibility during the Show Operation Portion of the show. The hourly pay is $17 per hour, depending on experience. Hirees that work through the duration of the Install/Show Operation/De-Install may have the potential for continued work at The North Carolina Arboretum as part of the Special Events/Exhibits installation crew.
Install (August- November)
- Install lights of various types (string lighting, net lights, RGB pebble lights, spotlights and more) using a variety of techniques to create displays that meet a high standard of aesthetic quality and align with the design goals. Training/direction will be provided by the Special Events Supervisor and/or the Team Lead.
- With guidance from the Installation Manager/WL Design Team, build/create and install show elements using various methods and materials (wood, metal, plastic, etc.).
- With training, install technology like light projectors, RGB/ programmable light displays, and more.
- With direction from the Special Events Supervisor, ensure that all installations are properly waterproofed and safety proofed.
Show Operation (November- December)
- Open and close the show nightly, troubleshooting and communicating with staff on the ground and offsite to ensure that all displays are functioning properly and that the show is ready to open on time and operates as smoothly as possible for the duration of each night's show.
- With training, operate technology like light projectors, RGB/programmable light displays, and more as part of running the show.
- Perform quality checks, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting before/during event hours.
- Monitor radio/walkie-talkie communication during event hours, and respond to reports of lighting or display issues.
De-Install (January-February)
- De-Install lights and show elements, including proper storage and management of inventory with direction from the Special Events Supervisor.
- Assist with inventory updates and management throughout install, during the show, and during strike.
- The team will report to and be lead by on a day-to-day basis by the Special Events Supervisor, who will assign tasks and manage workflow to ensure that the de-installation progresses on schedule.
Work Hours:
- Install (August 3-November 11): On-site presence will be required 5 days/week. Install schedule is typically 8:00 AM- 4:00 PM, Monday-Friday. Some weekend and evening hours may be required for special projects and light checks.
- Show Operation (November 12-January 3): On-site presence will be required several nights per week for show maintenance and operation. Shifts are typically 2:30 PM- 10:30 PM; the show runs 7 days/week.
- De-Install (January 4-February 26): On-site presence will be 5 days/week. Install schedule is typically 8:00 AM- 4:00 PM, Monday-Friday.
Primary Purpose of the Organizational Unit
Winter Lights serves as The North Carolina Arboretum's primary fundraiser. An interdepartmental endeavor, monies raised from this show helps fund educational programs, garden maintenance and campus improvements.
Minimum Education, Experience, and Skills
High School Diploma or equivalent. This position requires evening availability. Some weekends and holidays may be required. A valid driver's license as TNCA vehicles will be utilized in this role
Preferred Education, Experience, and Skills
Applicants who are able to commit for the duration, including Install, Show Operation and De-Install. Applicants with one or more of the following skills: -Electrical work, including safety procedures and power distribution -Carpentry/experience building props -Experience with holiday light shows and/or programmable lights -Forklift Certification -IT knowledge/ creative troubleshooting ability
Competencies
Willingness and ability to work outdoors, in all weather Ability to lift at least 50lbs repetitively (ideally at least 75lbs) Ability to operate machinery used in landscaping, grounds maintenance and basic utility maintenance Ability to safely work at heights, including climbing ladders, working in trees, and occasionally from the bucket of a boom lift Knowledge of standard office technology Communication: Must have courteous verbal communication skills for interaction with both internal and external publics. This position will need to follow both written and oral instructions. Work Management: Ability to manage priorities in response to work flow, and work independently based on provided instructions Team Environment: Ability to work within a team to accomplish tasks
Typical activities include climbing ladders, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, reaching above head or below waist, stooping, crouching and visual acuity to utilize power tools. A large portion of this work will be outside and will be subject to the elements.
Job Types: Full-time, Temporary
Pay: $17.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
