G'Day!
I suggest that you visit Tripsmarter.com prior to your visit for updates on what's going on, parade schedules, etc.
Another valuable resource would be the
New Orleans Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau website.
www.neworleanscvb.com .
As far as Job hunting is concerned.....Gambit Weekly (magazine) and the Times Picayune (the N.O. newspaper) are two of the best ways to find employment.
Good luck!

-Gene