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Contract Event Planner Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

About This Role This position oversees planning, coordinating, and executing conferences, meetings ... Maintain event records, contracts, vendor information, attendance data, and other required ...

New

Manage and execute all logistical aspects of internal events, such as site selection, contract ... Work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as necessary for event planning and execution

Manage and execute all logistical aspects of internal events, such as site selection, contract ... Work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as necessary for event planning and execution

Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company based throughout the entire United States - we ... This position is a contract role and you can pick your own schedule! Training is provided. Pay ...

Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company based throughout the entire United States - we ... This position is a contract role and you can pick your own schedule! Training is provided. Pay ...

Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company based throughout the entire United States - we ... This position is a contract role and you can pick your own schedule! Training is provided. Pay ...

Wedding Coordinator

Topeka, KS ยท On-site

$275 - $300/wk

Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company based throughout the entire United States - we ... This position is a contract role and you can pick your own schedule! Training is provided. Pay ...

Exercise Planner

Beverly, KS ยท On-site

$51K - $70K/yr

This position is contingent on contract award. How Role will make an impact: * Provide subject ... Must be experienced in large constructive exercises, multi-domain events, and implementation of ...

Exercise Planner

Fort Leavenworth, KS ยท On-site

$51K - $70K/yr

This position is contingent on contract award. How Role will make an impact: * Provide subject ... Must be experienced in large constructive exercises, multi-domain events, and implementation of ...

... contract negotiation, and budget oversight * Strong understanding of event strategy, including goal setting, audience targeting, and engagement planning * Experience partnering with Sales to align ...

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Contract Event Planner information

See Kansas salary details

$12

$27

$39

How much do contract event planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract event planner in Kansas is $27.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.44 and $31.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a contract event planner do?

Contract event planners are independent contractors hired to organize and coordinate all the aspects of an event. In this role, you discuss the needs and expectations of your client concerning the size and other details of the event. If the venue has not been chosen, your first responsibility is to help your client find a location to hold the event. Then you research and book various vendors that can provide the look and feel that your client wants, such as caterers, florists, and DJs or live bands. Open communication with your client throughout the planning process is essential to ensure that the details are approved and on budget. Many contract event planners are also expected to attend the event and assist with any issues that arise on that day.

How does a contract event planner typically coordinate with vendors and clients during the planning process?

As a contract event planner, you will act as the main point of contact between clients and various vendors such as caterers, venues, and audiovisual teams. This involves regular communication to clarify client expectations, negotiate contracts, and ensure timelines are met. You'll often use project management tools and attend site visits to oversee progress and troubleshoot any issues. Strong organizational skills and proactive communication are essential for ensuring all parties are aligned and that the event runs smoothly.

What is the difference between Contract Event Planner vs Freelance Event Coordinator?

AspectContract Event PlannerFreelance Event Coordinator
CredentialsEvent planning certifications, relevant experienceEvent planning experience, certifications optional
Work EnvironmentTypically hired for specific projects, often through agencies or companiesSelf-employed, manages multiple clients independently
Employer/Industry UsageUsed by event planning firms, corporations, and agenciesCommon among independent professionals and small businesses
Search/Comparison IntentLooking for contractual event planning rolesSeeking freelance event coordination opportunities

The main difference is that Contract Event Planners are usually hired through agencies or companies for specific projects, often requiring formal certifications. Freelance Event Coordinators operate independently, managing multiple clients without employer oversight. Both roles involve event organization, but their work arrangements and employment structures differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract event planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Event Planner, you need expertise in project management, budgeting, logistics, and strong knowledge of the events industry, often supported by a degree in hospitality or a related field. Familiarity with event management software (such as Cvent or Eventbrite), vendor management platforms, and, in some cases, certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation is valuable. Exceptional organizational skills, creativity, negotiation abilities, and effective communication help you stand out by ensuring seamless event execution and client satisfaction. These competencies are crucial for managing complex events, meeting client expectations, and delivering memorable experiences within deadlines and budgets.

What is a contract event planner?

Contract event planners are professionals who are hired on a temporary or project basis to organize and manage events such as conferences, weddings, corporate meetings, or parties. Unlike full-time staff, they typically work independently or through an agency and handle all aspects of event planning, including budgeting, vendor coordination, logistics, and on-site management. Their role is to ensure events run smoothly and meet the client's objectives, drawing on their expertise and network of contacts. Contract event planners offer flexibility and specialized skills, making them a popular choice for clients with occasional or unique event needs.
What are the most commonly searched types of Event Planner jobs in Kansas? The most popular types of Event Planner jobs in Kansas are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Event Planner jobs in Kansas? For Contract Event Planner jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Event Planner jobs in Kansas look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Event Planner jobs in Kansas are:
What cities in Kansas are hiring for Contract Event Planner jobs? Cities in Kansas with the most Contract Event Planner job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Event Planner job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,486 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Event Coordinator

Kansas State University

Manhattan, KS โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

About This Role

This position oversees planning, coordinating, and executing conferences, meetings, and specialevents for the Department of Agricultural Economics. Serves as a liaison to university groups affiliated with theevent, vendors, and external constituents. Provides organizational leadership for conferences, workshops, meetings, public functions and other specialevents. This role will plan a range of specialevents and make administrative decisions regarding thoseevents. Must apply knowledge ofeventplanning principles, cost analysis, facilities requirements, equipment needs, and resource management. Will manage a budget forevents. The Event Coordinator works collaboratively to ensure events are well-organized, professionally executed, and provide a positive experience for attendees. This position will work to support directors for various programs important to the success of the department.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Plan, coordinate, and execute meetings, conferences, workshops, educational events, ceremonies, receptions, and special events.
  • This position will take phone calls and emails and route various requests as needed to the appropriate contact, which may include the Director of Farm and Ranch Transition, an Extension Team member, the Executive Education Director, or faculty.
  • Develop and manage event timelines, project plans, and production schedules to ensure timely completion of all event activities.
  • Coordinate event logistics including venue selection, room layouts, catering, audiovisual needs, transportation, parking, signage, registration, and accommodations.
  • Manage event budgets by tracking expenses, processing invoices, and ensuring expenditure remains within approved funding.
  • Identify, negotiate, and coordinate with vendors, contractors, and service providers while maintaining positive working relationships.
  • Develop registration processes and manage attendee communications before, during, and after events.
  • Design, prepare, copy, and disseminate programmatic and educational materials, including flyers, brochures, promotional publications, invitations, event programs, name badges, signage, and other marketing materials to support departmental programs, services, and events.
  • Coordinate the development and distribution of event marketing materials in collaboration with communications and marketing staff.
  • Identify and utilize appropriate communication channels and advertising opportunities to increase awareness and engagement for departmental initiatives and educational events.
  • Work with other extension professionals or county extension offices and send press releases to get information to potential clients.
  • Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers, temporary staff, or event assistants as needed.
  • Assist with organizing and facilitating multiple tax schools.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact during events, addressing issues, troubleshooting problems, and ensuring a high level of customer service.
  • Conduct post-event evaluations, collect participant feedback, and prepare reports with recommendations for future improvements.
  • Maintain event records, contracts, vendor information, attendance data, and other required documentation.
  • Ensure compliance with organizational policies, safety procedures, accessibility standards, and applicable regulations.
  • Build and maintain positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Maintain client files as necessary and keep records of requests and what services were utilized for impact reporting of grants as necessary.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of event planning principles, project management practices, and event logistics.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong interpersonal and customer service skills with the ability to work effectively using professionalism with diverse audiences.
  • Ability to prioritize competing deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.
  • Demonstrated problem-solving and decision-making skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and event management or registration software.
  • Ability to manage budgets and maintain accurate financial records.
  • Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and occasional travel as required for events.
About Us

The Department of Agricultural Economics has a rich tradition of service to agriculture and related fields dating back to 1912 when the university organized the division of Agriculture and formed the Department of Farm Management, which was the forerunner for our department as it exists today. Over time, the department has developed two undergraduate majors in Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, as well as academic minors; a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics degree; a fully online Master of Agribusiness degree; and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics.

Worksite Description

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Requires a high school diploma (or equivalent) and four years of relevant experience. Requirements may be met through a combination of work experience and education.
  • Valid driver's license

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field.
  • Professional experience coordinating events, conferences, meetings, or programs.
  • Experience coordinating large-scale or multi-day events, taking registrations, managing logistics, and the ability to navigate change.
  • Experience managing event budgets and vendor contracts.
  • Familiarity with customer relationship management (CRM) systems and online event registration platforms.
  • Project management experience or certification.
  • Experience working in higher education, nonprofit organizations, or corporate environments.

Additional Role Information:

  • Ability to set up, tear down, coordinate, move, and produce materials as well as drive and lift materials up to 25 lbs.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit the following materials:
- Cover Letter
- Resume
- Name and contact information for three professional references.

Application Window

Applications close on: September 1, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$57,000-$65,000