About the Department

Bring Harrisonburg’s community events to life in a dynamic role where you’ll lead special event planning, create and maintain partnerships, and promote opportunities that create memorable experiences for residents and visitors. Consider applying for the Special Events & Marketing Manager with the City of Harrisonburg's Parks and Recreation Department!

The Special Events & Marketing Manager position is a full-time, exempt role with benefits and a preferred hiring range of $31.83 - $35.02 per hour (equivalent to $66,206 - $72,841 annually); however, an exact salary will be dependent upon the selected candidate's qualifications and experience.

In this position, you'll help bring exciting community events to fruition in the City of Harrisonburg by leading the planning, coordination, promotion, and successful execution of special events, which make a meaningful impact on residents and visitors alike. As the primary liaison for special events, you'll work directly with event organizers, community partners, the public, and City, County, and state agencies to guide events from early planning through final approval and delivery.

The ideal candidate is energized by collaboration and enjoys building strong relationships with a wide range of partners and stakeholders. You'll serve as the lead for the City-wide Special Event Review Team, support groups hosting events throughout the City, and play a key role in creating vibrant, memorable experiences for the community. You will also help elevate Parks & Recreation programs and initiatives through marketing, outreach, web/digital media content, and media relations.

A detailed list of essential functions and the ideal candidate's knowledge, skills, and abilities is available in the class specification.

Minimum Qualifications

Undergraduate degree with coursework in parks and recreation, communications, marketing or related field and considerable (3-5 years) experience in planning, implementing and supervising community/special events, budget management, and marketing techniques and practices. An equivalent combination may be considered for this requirement.
Valid driver's license.
Possession of CPR/AED/First Aid or the ability to obtain within six months of hire.
Available to work a flexible schedule, which may include nights, weekends, and holidays.
Click here to view the physical requirements of this position.

The selected candidate for this position will be subject to the following screenings and must receive satisfactory results:

DMV driving record review;
Criminal background investigation.

Other Qualifications

To Apply: In order to be considered, all candidates must submit a complete City of Harrisonburg online employment application, including previous work experience and education history. This position may close at any time after 10 calendar days. (posted 07/10/2026)

The City provides an excellent benefits package including health insurance, retirement (VRS & MissionSquare), life insurance, paid leave (including upfront sick leave) and 15.5 holidays.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability or veteran status.

The City of Harrisonburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Benefits

: Full-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including 15.5 observed holidays. More information on available benefits is listed on the City's website.

Supplemental Questions

What is your highest level of education?

Less than 8th Grade
Completed 8th Grade
Attended High School
High School Graduate
GED
Attend(ed) College
Associate/Technical Degree
Bachelor's Degree
Attend(ed) Graduate School
Master's Degree
Graduate study beyond Master's
Ph.D. or professional degree

How many years of experience do you have in planning, implementing and supervising community/special events, budget management, and marketing techniques and practices?

I do not have any experience.
I have some experience but less than 1 year of experience.
I have at least 1 year but less than 3 years of experience.
I have at least 3 years but less than 5 years of experience.
I have 5 or more years of experience.

Which of the following driver's license do you possess?

No Valid Driver's License
Valid Driver's License
Valid Commercial Learner's Permit
Valid Commercial Driver's License (Class A or B)

Which of the following certifications do you currently possess?

CPR
AED
First Aid
None of the Above

Are you available to work a flexible schedule, which may include nights, weekends, and holidays, depending on business needs?

Required Question

Agency Information

Employer: City of Harrisonburg
Address: 409 South Main Street

Third Floor

Harrisonburg, Virginia, 22801
Phone: 540.432.8920

540.432.7796
Website: https://www.harrisonburgva.gov/employment