Facilities & Rental Manager

Job Description

Harry P. Leu Gardens is seeking a dedicated Facilities and Rental Manager to oversee the care and functionality of our 50-acre campus and buildings while coordinating unforgettable rental experiences in one of Central Florida’s most scenic venues. This role is ideal for an organized, solutions-focused professional who thrives at the intersection of hospitality, logistics, and facility stewardship.

The Facilities & Rental Manager is the steward of the Gardens physical spaces—ensuring the safety, functionality, and beauty of our historic and modern facilities. You will also oversee the successful planning and execution of private and public rentals, including weddings, corporate events, and community gatherings that bring the Gardens to life. From maintaining beautiful, visitor-ready spaces to executing seamless weddings and private events, this position plays a vital role in supporting the Gardens mission of creating inspiring experiences for the public.

About Us

Since 1961, Harry P. Leu Gardens has inspired a love of nature, historic landscapes, and enriching outdoor experiences. Once the private estate of Harry P. and Mary Jane Leu—renowned plant collectors who developed one of the Southeast’s largest camellia collections—the 50-acre garden was donated to the City of Orlando and is now city-owned and operated. Originally located on the ancestral lands of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, the Gardens recorded history dates to 1858. Four families shaped the estate before Harry P. and Mary Jane Leu acquired it in 1936 and gifted it to the city 25 years later.

Today, Harry P. Leu Gardens welcomes over 275,000 visitors annually and features 30 diverse plant collections, educational programs, seasonal events, and exhibits for the public. As a leading public garden and plant repository, it highlights global plant diversity suited to Central Florida’s climate. Visitors explore the Gardens through self-guided tours, interpretive materials, and the Historic Leu House Museum—built in 1888 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The campus includes the museum, extensive plant displays, and a 22,000 sq. ft. Welcome Center and event venue, making it a premier destination for weddings, private events, and horticultural education in Central Florida.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Manage Facilities and Grounds Support – Oversee the maintenance, cleanliness, and daily readiness of buildings, rental venues, and high-traffic public areas.
• Coordinate Rentals and Events – Lead all aspects of private event operations, including weddings and social and corporate rentals—from booking to on-site execution.
• Lead and Support Staff – Supervise, schedule, and mentor the Facilities and Events team, promoting a collaborative, service-oriented culture grounded in hospitality, safety, and operational excellence.
• Ensure Safety and Compliance – Conduct regular inspections and implement safety protocols for indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring compliance with city regulations.
• Vendor and Contractor Oversight – Liaise with service providers (custodial, City, utilities, caterers, A/V, etc.) and manage contracts, schedules, and quality assurance.
• Support Garden Events – Assist in set-up, logistics, and tear-down for public programs and seasonal events in collaboration with the Guest Services, Marketing, and Education teams.
• Strategic Facilities Planning – Participate in long-term planning for capital improvements, facility upgrades, and sustainability initiatives.
• Manage Budgets and Inventory – Track facility and rental supplies, coordinate purchasing, and assist in maintaining accurate budget and usage reports.

Education and Experience

• Proven experience in facilities management, event coordination, or operations—preferably in a public venue, museum, park, or hospitality environment.
• Strong project management, organizational, and multitasking abilities.
• Knowledge of building operations, vendor coordination, and safety protocols.
• Customer service mindset with experience supporting clients and guests during events.
• Ability to supervise part-time staff and contractors in a fast-paced, high-traffic setting.
• Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions and able to lift/move event equipment.
• Flexible availability, including weekends, holidays, and evenings for events and emergencies.

Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree in Event, Hospitality, or Operations Management, or related field plus two to three (2-3) years of event coordination or related experience for an event venue or cultural institution; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Valid Florida Driver’s License required.

Additional Information

Compensation & Schedule
$28.28 – $43.85/Hourly
$58,822.40 – $91,208.00 Annually
Full-time + benefits from the City of Orlando
Monday – Friday, with availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed for special events

Application Instructions

Apply
Apply online at the City of Orlando job page at https://cityoforlando.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/CityofOrlandoCareers.