Work the Washington County Fair

Year Round Employment

Job Title: Operations/Fairgrounds Manager
Location: Lake Elmo, MN
Reports to: Washington County Agricultural Society Executive Board

The Operations/Fairgrounds Manager oversees the daily operations of the Washington County Fairgrounds and annual 5-day County Fair. The role manages facilities, events, staff, marketing, rentals, and finances, while working closely with the WCAS Executive Board. The position represents the fairgrounds in the community and ensures safe, well-run events year-round. This position is responsible for the organization, preparation, promotion, marketing, direction, etc. of the annual Washington County Fair.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Manage daily operations of the fairgrounds and oversee the annual Washington County Fair
  • Coordinate grants, sponsorships and advertising for the WCAS
  • Work closely with the Treasurer of the WCAS
  • Attendance is required at WCAS board and membership meetings. Typically, in the evening.
  • Ability to be on-site at fair office at least 3 days a week, typically Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from May 1 – September 30
  • Manage the budget
  • Oversee facility, space rentals and event logistics
  • Market the fairgrounds year-round and promote the annual County Fair
  • Hire and supervise staff, part-time employees and volunteers
  • Ensure compliance with licenses, permits and regulations
  • Serve as the primary public representative of the Washington County Fair and fairgrounds to the community, membership and Board of Directors
  • Monitor guest feedback and performance metrics to improve events
  • Support governance requirements, bylaws and nonprofit regulations
  • Be on-site at the start and end of events (usually Wednesday-Sunday as needed) and available by phone when off-site
  • Review Emergency Plan each year with Washington County
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • Preferred 5 years’ experience in facility or event management. Experience with a 501(c)3 is preferred
  • Strong financial and budgeting skills
  • Ability to work effectively with people of varying interests, ideas, skills and abilities
  • Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and tactfully both written and orally
  • Strong planning, problem solving, organizational skills and ability to manage competing priorities
  • Skill in using computer databases, spreadsheets, Word and other office programs
  • Self-motivated with ability to thrive under minimal supervision
  • Familiarity with fairs, 4H and FFA programs highly preferred
  • Ability to work long hours, along with performing physical tasks, such as lifting up to 30 lbs
  • Valid driver’s license

Pay and Benefits

  • Range $38,000 - $45,000 depending on experience
  • There are no benefits
  • WCAS provides office space, computer, and phone for official duties
  • Office time varies based on seasonal needs and at the discretion of the Executive Board

Reports To

Washington County Agricultural Society Executive Board.

Disclaimer

This job description is not an employment agreement or contract, and management reserves the right to modify, when necessary, per Washington county policy.

Equal opportunity employer.

If selected, interviews will be held on January 7th.

Send resume and three references to: washcoag@outlook.com

Seasonal Employment

Quick Facts

  • Season: July 29–Aug 2, 2026
  • Pay: $14–$20/hr
  • Shifts: AM • Day • PM
  • Minimum age: 16+ (some 18+)

Why Work The Fair?

  • Be part of a beloved community event.
  • Flexible shifts to fit school or a second job.
  • Competitive seasonal pay.

How Hiring Works

  1. Join Talent Pool — tell us your interests and availability.
  2. Apply — choose roles when postings go live.
  3. Interview — quick virtual or on‑site chat.
  4. Paperwork — complete hiring forms.
  5. Orientation — welcome session & schedule pickup.
  6. First Shift — welcome to the team!

Talent Pool (Get Notified)

No openings yet? Fill this out and we’ll email you the moment jobs go live.

Employment

Age Bracket(Required)
Departments(Required)
Work Eligibility:(Required)
Past Fair Experince? (Optional)
Accessibility Or Accommodation Needs? (Optional)
Privacy note: We’ll only use your info for Washington County Fair hiring updates. No spam, ever.

Who We’re Looking For

  • Friendly, dependable, and on time
  • Comfortable standing, working outdoors & around crowds
  • Able to follow safety guidance; support guests of all ages
  • Age: Most roles 16+; cash handling/equipment 18+

Accessibility & Inclusion

Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.

Contact

Email: fairmanager@washingtoncountyfair.org
Phone: 651-770-0246 (Mon–Fri, 9am–4pm)
Media/Vendor hiring?
Email fairmanager@washingtoncountyfair.org.
© Washington County Fair — Seasonal Employment

FAQs

Most roles are 16+. Some (cash handling, equipment) require 18+. Minors may need a work permit.
We train! Event or customer-service experience is a plus but not required.
We collect your availability and do our best. Weekends and evenings are most needed.
We welcome applicants of all abilities. If you need assistance with the application or interview process, contact HR below.