Event Staff Job Opportunities for Seniors: A Rewarding Second Career

What Are Event Staff Jobs for Seniors?

Event staff jobs encompass a variety of roles at concerts, sporting events, conventions, conferences, festivals, and other public gatherings. These positions are often part-time or seasonal, making them ideal for seniors who want to work without committing to a full-time schedule. Common event staff roles suitable for seniors include ticket takers, ushers, customer service representatives, information booth attendants, and VIP hosts. These positions typically require minimal physical demands while allowing seniors to interact with the public in stimulating environments.

The flexible nature of event staffing means seniors can choose when and how often they work, accommodating travel plans, family commitments, or health considerations. Many venues and event companies specifically value mature workers for their reliability, strong work ethic, and excellent people skills.

Benefits of Event Staffing Careers for Older Adults

Event staffing offers numerous advantages particularly well-suited to seniors’ needs and preferences. First, these roles provide opportunities for social interaction, helping combat isolation that sometimes accompanies retirement. Working at events means meeting new people, engaging with the public, and often forming friendships with fellow staff members.

Financial benefits are another important consideration. Event staff positions provide supplemental income that can help stretch retirement savings without the demands of full-time employment. Additionally, many seniors appreciate the mental stimulation these jobs provide, keeping their minds active and engaged.

Perhaps most appealing is the access to entertainment and cultural experiences. Many event staff positions allow workers to enjoy concerts, sporting events, or theater performances as part of their job—experiences that might otherwise be costly or inaccessible. For sports enthusiasts, music lovers, or theater aficionados, these positions offer a way to indulge personal interests while earning income.

How Seniors Can Work as Event Staff

Getting started in event staffing is relatively straightforward. Seniors can begin by identifying venues and events that interest them most. Local theaters, sports arenas, convention centers, and concert halls regularly hire event staff. Many venues contract with event staffing agencies that handle hiring and scheduling, making it easier to find opportunities.

To increase chances of securing event staff positions, seniors should highlight transferable skills from previous careers. Customer service experience, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities are highly valued. While physical requirements vary by position, many roles require only moderate standing or walking, with accommodations often available.

The application process typically involves submitting a resume, completing an application form, and participating in an interview. Many venues provide training sessions to prepare new staff members for their roles. Seniors who demonstrate reliability, friendliness, and a willingness to learn quickly stand out as valuable candidates.

Types of Event Staff Positions Suitable for Seniors

Various event staff roles cater to different interests, abilities, and experience levels:

1. Ushers and ticket takers welcome guests, scan or collect tickets, and direct attendees to their seats—perfect for those who enjoy customer service interactions.

2. Concession stand workers sell food and beverages during events, ideal for seniors comfortable handling cash transactions and working in fast-paced environments during peak times.

3. Information booth attendants answer questions and provide directions, well-suited for knowledgeable individuals who enjoy helping others.

4. VIP hosts and hospitality staff serve premium ticket holders or special guests, excellent for seniors with professional backgrounds in customer service or hospitality.

5. Box office associates handle ticket sales and will-call pickup, appropriate for those with cash handling experience and computer skills.

Each role offers unique advantages and can be matched to a senior’s specific abilities and preferences.

General Compensation and Working Conditions for Senior Event Staff

Compensation for event staff positions varies widely depending on location, venue type, and specific role. Generally, event staff positions pay hourly rates ranging from minimum wage to $15-20 per hour, with premium venues or specialized roles sometimes offering higher compensation.

---

Typical Role	Average Pay Range	Common Benefits	Working Conditions
Usher/Greeter	$11-15/hour	Free event access, flexible scheduling	Moderate standing, indoor work
Concessions Staff	$12-16/hour	Meal allowances, flexible scheduling	Fast-paced during breaks, some lifting
Information Booth	$12-17/hour	Event access, consistent schedule	Seated position available, customer service focus
VIP/Hospitality	$14-20/hour	Premium event access, tips possible	Professional setting, more formal dress code
Box Office	$13-18/hour	Advance ticket access, consistent hours	Computer skills required, seated position

---

Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.

Working conditions generally involve shifts of 4-6 hours with breaks provided. Many venues offer accommodations for seniors with mobility concerns. Some positions allow for sitting while others require standing or walking. The social atmosphere and engagement with the public make these roles particularly appealing despite any physical requirements.

Finding Event Staff Opportunities for Seniors

Seniors interested in event staff positions have several avenues for finding opportunities. Many venue management companies maintain their own career websites where they post openings. Local job boards often list event staff positions, and community centers or senior employment programs may have information about local opportunities.

Networking can also be effective—reaching out to friends or family members who work at or frequently attend events can provide insider information about openings. Additionally, visiting venues in person to inquire about opportunities demonstrates initiative and interest.

Remember that these positions are general industry opportunities, not specific job listings. Availability varies by region and season, with more positions typically open during busy event seasons. Seniors should research options in their local area to find current openings and application procedures specific to venues or staffing companies in their community.

Event staff positions offer seniors meaningful ways to stay engaged, active, and connected while earning supplemental income. With their wealth of experience and people skills, seniors bring tremendous value to these roles, making event staffing a mutually beneficial arrangement for both older workers and the venues that employ them.