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Conference Services Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Remington

Conference Services Manager

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Conference Services Manager Department: Sales & Catering / Events Reports To: Director of Sales & Marketing 1. Objective To ensure the seamless planning and execution of all conferences, meetings ...

Compass Group

CONFERENCE SERVICES ATTENDANT

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$22/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time CONFERENCE SERVICES ATTENDANT positions. * Location : Inova Conference Center - 3225 Gallows Road, Fairfax, VA 22031. Note: online applications accepted only.

BENCHMARK

Director of Conference Services

Washington, DC · On-site

$100 - $115/hr

Director of Conference Services We look for people who are passionate about service and have a hunger for learning new skills. We believe in the power of teamwork and the professional development of ...

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Conference Services information

See Washington salary details

$45.3K

$70.2K

$91.7K

How much do conference services jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for conference services in Washington is $70,176.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $80,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is conference services?

Conference services refer to the planning, coordination, and execution of events such as meetings, seminars, conventions, and conferences. Professionals in this field handle logistics like venue selection, audio-visual equipment, catering, accommodations, and on-site support to ensure events run smoothly. They work closely with clients to understand their needs and create a seamless experience for attendees. Conference services can be offered by hotels, convention centers, or specialized event planning companies.

What are some common challenges faced in a conference services role and how can they be managed effectively?

Conference Services professionals often encounter challenges such as last-minute changes to event schedules, coordinating with multiple vendors, and meeting diverse client expectations. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are key to successfully managing these challenges. Proactively developing contingency plans and maintaining flexibility help ensure seamless event execution, while regular team meetings foster collaboration and quick problem-solving. Building strong relationships with clients and vendors also contributes to smoother operations and successful events.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in conference services, and why are they important?

To thrive in Conference Services, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and experience in event planning or hospitality, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with event management software, audiovisual equipment, and booking systems is typically required. Outstanding communication, customer service orientation, and the ability to multitask under pressure are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure seamless event execution, high client satisfaction, and the ability to handle unexpected challenges in a dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Conference Services vs Event Coordinator?

AspectConference ServicesEvent Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires hospitality or event management certificationsOften requires similar certifications, but more flexible
Work EnvironmentHotels, conference centers, convention venuesVaries widely; corporate, nonprofit, or private events
Employer & IndustryHotels, conference centers, event venuesCorporations, nonprofits, agencies
Primary FocusManaging conference logistics, room setups, and client needsPlanning and executing various types of events, including conferences

Conference Services professionals focus on managing the logistics and operations of conferences within venues like hotels or conference centers. Event Coordinators handle a broader range of events, including social, corporate, and community events. While both roles require strong organizational skills and certifications, Conference Services roles are more specialized in conference logistics within hospitality settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Conference Services jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Conference Services jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Conference Services jobs in Washington?

For Conference Services jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Conference Services jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Conference Services jobs in Washington are:

Conference Services jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conference Services job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,176 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Senior Conference Services Manager

Donohoe Hospitality Services

College Park, MD • On-site

$86K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Senior Conference Services Manager
Location: The Hotel at the University of Maryland
Department: Sales & Marketing
Reports to: Director of Sales & Marketing
Status: Full-Time
Salary Range: $82,000.00 - $86,000.00 annually (experience-based compensation)
GET TO KNOW THE HOTEL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND
The Hotel at the University of Maryland is a AAA Four Diamond independent property located directly across from the University of Maryland campus. The Hotel features 297 guest rooms, including 9 suites, and more than 45,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, accommodating programs ranging from intimate gatherings to events of up to 1,500 attendees.
Managed by Donohoe Hospitality Services (DHS), The Hotel is committed to delivering highly personalized service and exceptional guest experiences. We foster a professional, collaborative environment where team members are encouraged to grow, develop their skills, take on greater responsibility, and advance their careers.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Senior Conference Services Manager is responsible for the planning, coordination, communication, and successful execution of assigned conferences, meetings, corporate programs, sporting events, social functions, and other group events.
Serving as the primary liaison between the client and Hotel operating departments following the sales process, the Senior Conference Services Manager translates contracted program requirements into detailed operational plans and ensures that each event is executed accurately, efficiently, profitably, and in accordance with Hotel and Donohoe Hospitality Services standards.
This senior-level position requires an experienced hospitality professional who combines exceptional event management and client relationship skills with strong business acumen. The Senior Conference Services Manager is expected to maximize event revenue, identify upselling opportunities, optimize meeting space, monitor room blocks and food and beverage performance, strengthen repeat business, and serve as a mentor and resource to members of the Conference Services team.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Conference & Event Management
  • Manage assigned groups from turnover through planning, event execution, departure, and post-event follow-up.
  • Serve as the primary planning contact for assigned clients and maintain consistent, proactive communication throughout the event lifecycle.
  • Confirm all event-related information with clients and translate requirements into clear and detailed operational instructions.
  • Prepare accurate and timely Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), group resumes, rooming information, floor plans, directives, and other event documentation.
  • Produce detailed Group Resumes on a weekly basis and communicate program requirements during appropriate Hotel operational meetings.
  • Coordinate meeting room assignments, setups, food and beverage requirements, audiovisual needs, vendor services, and other program logistics.
  • Develop and review floor plans to ensure effective use of space, appropriate event flow, operational efficiency, safety, and client satisfaction.
  • Ensure Banquets, Culinary, and the client are aligned on event requirements before execution.
  • Obtain final food and beverage guarantees within established deadlines and communicate significant attendance changes so that labor and food costs can be appropriately managed.
  • Conduct pre-conference meetings, planning meetings, site inspections, special events, and client presentations as appropriate.
  • Maintain a visible presence during major programs and peak event periods.
  • Anticipate operational challenges and proactively develop solutions before they negatively affect the client or guest experience.
  • Ensure all Conference Services checklists, procedures, and deadlines are consistently followed.

Client Relationship Management
  • Develop strong, professional relationships with meeting planners, event organizers, and key decision-makers.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to clients throughout planning and execution.
  • Respond promptly and professionally to client questions, concerns, and changing program requirements.
  • Demonstrate creativity in translating the client's vision into an exceptional event experience.
  • Resolve service challenges professionally while protecting the client relationship and the Hotel's interests.
  • Review meeting planner feedback and recommend operational improvements designed to increase client satisfaction.
  • Actively participate in rebooking repeat business and identify future opportunities before group departure.
  • Build long-term client relationships that contribute to repeat and referral business.
  • Support initiatives designed to improve meeting planner evaluation scores and overall client satisfaction.

Revenue Management & Business Acumen
  • Identify and maximize opportunities to increase event revenue through strategic upselling of food and beverage, meeting room rental, audiovisual services, enhancements, and other Hotel services.
  • Optimize meeting room rental charges and event space utilization while maintaining client satisfaction.
  • Monitor the effective use of meeting space to maximize revenue potential.
  • Actively monitor assigned room blocks and food and beverage covers to improve forecasting accuracy.
  • Review group room pickup and communicate material changes to appropriate departments and Hotel leadership.
  • Understand the financial and operational impact of program changes and client requests.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of monthly forecasting and the annual budgeting process.
  • Protect the Hotel's financial interests while maintaining strong client relationships.
  • Support departmental revenue, profitability, guest satisfaction, and rebooking goals.

Operational Leadership
  • Work closely with Banquets, Culinary, Front Office, Reservations, Housekeeping, Engineering, Security, Sales, Accounting, audiovisual partners, and other departments to ensure seamless event execution.
  • Provide clear operational direction for all BEOs, group resumes, and event requirements generated through Conference Services.
  • Participate actively in BEO meetings, staff meetings, Sales meetings, Food & Beverage meetings, credit meetings, and other operational meetings as required.
  • Participate in audits of service-related communications and documentation for upcoming meetings and events.
  • Maintain working knowledge of Hotel services, amenities, features, and local attractions and activities.
  • Maintain knowledge of applicable liquor laws, fire codes, safety requirements, emergency procedures, and Hotel policies.
  • Respond promptly to guest and client needs regardless of business volume or time of day.
  • Escalate unresolved client or guest concerns to appropriate leadership.
  • Immediately report incidents, injuries, or property damage in accordance with Hotel and DHS procedures.
  • Contribute to departmental and Hotel projects as needed.

Audiovisual & Vendor Management
  • Coordinate effectively with the Hotel's audiovisual provider to support client requirements and successful event execution.
  • Understand audiovisual services as an important component of the overall event experience and revenue strategy.
  • Work effectively with outside vendors while ensuring compliance with Hotel policies, contractual requirements, safety standards, and operational procedures.
  • Monitor outside vendor performance to ensure client service expectations and Hotel standards are consistently achieved.
  • Review vendor relationships and agreements as assigned and communicate opportunities for improved pricing, service, or performance to the Director of Catering & Conference Services.

Senior-Level Leadership & Mentorship
  • Serve as a senior resource and role model within the Conference Services department.
  • Assist with the orientation, onboarding, and development of new Conference Services team members.
  • Mentor team members in event planning, client communication, operational execution, revenue optimization, organization, and problem resolution.
  • Provide guidance and support to Conference Services Managers when managing complex programs or challenging client situations.
  • Lead by example through professionalism, accountability, organization, communication, and a positive attitude.
  • Encourage effective teamwork and collaboration across departments.
  • Assist the Director of Catering & Conference Services with departmental projects and initiatives.
  • Participate in the development, review, and updating of departmental Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Stay current on hospitality, meetings, events, technology, and Conference Services trends and best practices.
  • Pursue continued professional development through relevant industry education, networking, and training opportunities.

JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
  • Advanced knowledge of Conference Services, catering, banquet operations, and Hotel group operations.
  • Strong understanding of hotel sales techniques, revenue management, forecasting, and upselling.
  • Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple complex programs and competing deadlines simultaneously.
  • Strong client relationship-building and negotiation skills.
  • Excellent analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to quickly evaluate alternatives and determine an appropriate course of action.
  • Ability to remain composed and solutions-focused in stressful and high-pressure situations.
  • Excellent written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Professional executive presence and the ability to communicate effectively with clients, vendors, team members, and senior leadership.
  • Creativity in developing event setups, menus, experiences, and solutions.
  • Knowledge of large-scale corporate, association, sports, and special-event production.
  • Understanding of hotel operations and the interrelationship between Rooms, Food & Beverage, Sales, Conference Services, and other operating departments.
  • Ability to interpret client requirements and ensure contracted commitments are appropriately executed.
  • Excellent attention to detail and time-management skills.
  • Ability to coach, mentor, motivate, and positively influence peers and team members.
  • Ability to perform basic business mathematics and event-related calculations.
  • Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Word, and Excel.
  • Proficiency with hotel sales, catering, property-management, and event-management systems.
  • Strong Delphi experience preferred.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Minimum of five (5) years of demonstrated Conference Services, Convention Services, Catering, Event Management, or comparable hotel experience at a similar-size and quality property.
  • Demonstrated experience independently managing complex conferences, meetings, and multi-day group programs.
  • Experience managing large-scale corporate, association, sports, or special events preferred.
  • Proven ability to develop strong client relationships and contribute to repeat and rebooked business.
  • Demonstrated ability to identify upselling opportunities and maximize event revenue.
  • Experience working collaboratively with Banquets, Culinary, Sales, Rooms, audiovisual providers, and outside vendors.
  • Strong Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Delphi experience.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business, Event Management, or a related field preferred.

WORK SCHEDULE & AVAILABILITY
Hospitality requires flexibility. The Senior Conference Services Manager must be available based on business and client needs, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.
Availability during peak operating periods, major conferences, and high-profile events is an essential expectation of this position.
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
Success in the Senior Conference Services Manager position will be demonstrated through:
  • Exceptional meeting planner and guest satisfaction.
  • Accurate and timely BEOs, group resumes, and event documentation.
  • Successful execution of complex and high-profile programs.
  • Proactive communication with clients and Hotel operating departments.
  • Effective management of room blocks and food and beverage forecasts.
  • Increased upselling and event revenue.
  • Effective utilization of meeting and event space.
  • Strong repeat and rebooking performance.
  • Timely and professional resolution of client and operational challenges.
  • Positive leadership and mentorship within the Conference Services team.
  • Consistent protection of the Hotel's reputation, guest experience, and financial interests.

OUR EXPECTATIONS
Every team member is expected to contribute to the success of The Hotel at the University of Maryland and Donohoe Hospitality Services by demonstrating professionalism, accountability, collaboration, responsiveness, integrity, and a commitment to exceptional hospitality.
The Senior Conference Services Manager is expected to lead by example, support colleagues across departments, participate in Hotel

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