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Associate Director Of Special Events Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Reporting to the Senior Director of Advancement Operations , the Director of Special Events provides the strategic vision, leadership, and operational direction for DREAM's portfolio of fundraising ...

$66K/yr

... the Director of Special Events. Position Responsibilities: * Manage catering operations by coordinating with vendors, overseeing orders and deliveries, tracking catering requisitions, processing ...

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Associate Director Of Special Events information

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How much do associate director of special events jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate director of special events in the United States is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Associate Director Of Special Events vs Event Manager?

AspectAssociate Director Of Special EventsEvent Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple events, strategic planning, team leadershipExecutes individual events, logistics, vendor coordination
CredentialsBachelor’s degree, experience in event planning, leadership skillsBachelor’s degree, experience in event coordination
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits, leadership meetingsOn-site during events, vendor interactions
Industry UsageNonprofit, corporate, hospitality sectorsNonprofit, corporate, hospitality sectors

The Associate Director Of Special Events typically has broader responsibilities, including strategic planning and team oversight, compared to the Event Manager who focuses on executing individual events. Both roles require similar credentials and are used across various industries, but the associate director position involves higher-level coordination and leadership.

How does the associate director of special events typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

The Associate Director of Special Events often works closely with departments such as marketing, communications, fundraising, and operations to ensure that events align with organizational goals. Collaboration involves regular meetings, shared project timelines, and coordinated efforts to secure sponsorships, promote the event, and manage logistics. Building strong interdepartmental relationships is key to smoothly executing successful events, overcoming challenges, and ensuring all aspects—such as branding, guest experience, and budget management—are cohesive and effective.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate director of special events, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Director Of Special Events, you need expertise in event planning, budgeting, and project management, often supported by a bachelor's degree in hospitality, marketing, or a related field. Familiarity with event management software (such as Cvent or Eventbrite), CRM systems, and budgeting tools is typically required. Strong leadership, attention to detail, and excellent interpersonal skills help you effectively coordinate teams and engage stakeholders. These abilities ensure seamless event execution, maximize attendee satisfaction, and support organizational goals.

What does an associate director of special events do?

An Associate Director of Special Events is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing a range of events, such as fundraisers, galas, conferences, and community gatherings. They collaborate with various teams and stakeholders to ensure each event meets organizational goals and runs smoothly. Their duties include managing budgets, overseeing event logistics, supervising staff, and ensuring compliance with policies and safety regulations. This role often involves strategic planning to enhance event experiences and maximize engagement or fundraising outcomes.
What cities are hiring for Associate Director Of Special Events jobs? Cities with the most Associate Director Of Special Events job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Director Of Special Events jobs? The most popular types of Director Of Special Events jobs are:
What states have the most Associate Director Of Special Events jobs? States with the most job openings for Associate Director Of Special Events jobs include:
Infographic showing various Associate Director Of Special Events job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,755 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Director of Special Events

The Chapin School

Manhattan, NY

$90K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

The Chapin School, an independent K-12 day school for girls located in New York City, seeks an experienced, collaborative and organized development professional to serve as the Director of Special Events in the Advancement Office.

Job Description

The Director of Special Events is an essential member of the Advancement leadership team and is the senior staff member responsible for all events related to the Advancement Office and various Chapin constituencies, including alumnae, current and past parents, donors and the Board of Trustees. The position reports to the Director of Advancement and also works closely with members of the Communication team.

The Director works to make each activity cost effective, productive and successful in purpose and helps evaluate the results. Major events the role is responsible for include Alumnae events, including the annual two-day Reunion, stewardship events, campaign receptions and dinners, new parent and grandparent events, and trustee gatherings. 

Responsibilities of the position

 

  • Prepare and maintain an annual schedule of events for the Advancement department
  • Coordinate with appropriate departments, such as Head of School’s office, Plant and Food Services for each event
  • Create timelines for each event and oversee the Advancement event listings on the website calendar
  • Responsible for event invitations including creation invitation lists and materials, mailings and reminders, in conjunction with Communications team when appropriate
  • Track RSVPs and maintain Raiser's Edge events module, keeping information current and accurate
  • Organize volunteers to assist at events
  • Manage budgets for each event and maintain events budget line in the general ledger
  • Attend and troubleshoot issues as they arise at each event
  • Analyze event data for strategic planning
  • Plan meetings and phonathons in support of Annual Giving
  • Provide support in creation and execution of campaign events and materials
  • Work with Director of Advancement on various Board committees – create materials, conduct constituent research, prep set ups and take meeting notes
  • Research and visit off-site venues and brainstorm partnerships
  • Support Commencement and work with various departments at the School

Large-Scale Benefit Celebrations (approximately every 5 years)

  • Research venues and negotiate necessary contracts
  • Create and adhere to budget
  • Manage volunteer committees and maintain timeline and deadlines for event
  • Serve as main point person for all vendors
  • Oversee ticketing sales, seating and all other event details

Qualifications 

Required

·      Bachelor’s Degree

·      5 - 7 years of experience in event planning for a fundraising office in an education or non-profit setting

·      A strong communicator with excellent verbal and written communication skills

·      Ability to multi-task and prioritize a variety of projects

·      Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, Mac operating systems, and Google Docs

·      Available for evening events and for occasional weekend events

 

Preferred

  • Proficiency in Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT
  • Comfort with multiple software systems
  • Flexible and adaptable approach to working with multiple team members' styles
  • A collaborative colleague dedicated to working as a member of a team

The salary for this position will be commensurate with experience the range is $90,000-$115,000 annually.

How To Apply: Interested candidates should submit a résumé and cover letter. Applications will be accepted through August 21, 2026.

Link to Chapin’s Website and Mission Statement


Employment Type: FULL_TIME