Downers Grove Market Manager

Description

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is dedicated to creating long-lasting positive change, whether it’s through health and wellbeing, early education, violence prevention, or one of our other programs and services. We’re looking for talented individuals who are committed to empowering our community by creating a safe and welcoming environment that encourages growth and support — individuals like you!

The Indian Boundary YMCA in Downers Grove, IL is looking for a seasonal Market Manager. Since the mid-1990s the Indian Boundary YMCA operated the Downtown Downers Grove Market. Proceeds from booth sales help the YMCA to enhance existing programs and to offer financial assistance to children and families to participate in Y programs. Last year, more than 4,500 people visited the Market during peak weeks.

This part-time, seasonal position is an ideal role for someone looking for extra income or who just loves people and running events. This role is the point person for the weekly Market, including setup, teardown, weekly vendor coordination, and customer service onsite. Candidates must be available from late April until early November to assist with Market operations and administration.
The 2026 Market season runs from mid-May to mid-October; candidate must be available on Saturdays from 5 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. during the Market season.

Salary range is $18.00-$20.00 per hour

Our staff is the Y s greatest asset. Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that is essential to the contribution and positive impact in our communities, which is why we offer Y employees numerous perks and benefits, including:

• Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
• Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance.
• 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service.
• Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
• Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Discounts on programs
  , employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.

Scope of Responsibilities

• Coordinates and executes weekly operation of the Downtown Downers Grove Market, including but not limited to, assisting vendors during load-in and setup, as well as tear down and load-out, maintaining all supplies and equipment, and setting up YMCA tent, signage, and other materials
• Manage all customer service interaction onsite during the Market, both with vendors and customers, and troubleshoot concerns in the moment; ensure any concerns raised during the Market that cannot be resolved are escalated to the Brand Experience Manager
• Assist in confirming weekly vendor schedules, including musicians and non-profit partners, throughout the Market season (approx. 4-6 hours during the week)
• Help to build out volunteer recruitment efforts and volunteer shifts onsite to provide exceptional customer service and information to market-goers
• Collaborate with Indian Boundary YMCA staff, as well as Brand Engagement team, on activities and events at each weekly Market
• Assist in compiling promotional information (i.e. weekly vendors, musicians, activities, etc.) that can be distributed to market-goers via social media and newsletters
• Provide a recap of Market operations with Brand Experience Manager after each Market and discuss any enhancements that can be made
• Maintain cleanliness and safety of facilities and all Market equipment, including Market storage closest
• Ensures all rules and regulations are being adhered to by vendors and customers and that all Village rule are being followed
• Maintains YMCA standards and ensures compliance with requirements; ensures accidents and incidents are properly reported
• Serve on-site as the YMCA liaison for all logistics at the Market
• Foster strong relationships with customers, vendors, and key stakeholders to understand their requirements and exceed their expectations

Requirements:

• High School Diploma required;
  Bachelor’s degree in hospitality, marketing,…