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Contract Event Planner Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Coptic Orphans

Event Planner

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Manage all vendor communications, contracts, and delivery timelines. Communications Coordination ... event planning. * Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), as well as ...

Coptic Orphans

Event Planner

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Manage all vendor communications, contracts, and delivery timelines. Communications Coordination ... event planning. * Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), as well as ...

Peraton

Intelligence Planner

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

Capture, document, and analyze lessons learned from exercises, training events, and operational ... This position is contingent upon contract award. QualificationsRequired * Minimum of 9 years w/o a ...

Peraton

Intelligence Planner

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

Capture, document, and analyze lessons learned from exercises, training events, and operational ... This position is contingent upon contract award. QualificationsRequired * Minimum of 9 years w/o a ...

Virginia Tech

Event Manager

Blacksburg, VA · Hybrid

Operational Coordination and Logistics - -Serve as the primary point of contact for college event planning and logistics. -Manage vendor relationships, contracts, and event procedures while ensuring ...

ClubCorp

Event Sales Coordinator

Haymarket, VA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

... planning process, ensuring all client needs and preferences are documented and communicated effectively. * Support the creation and distribution of event proposals, contracts, event orders, floor ...

Invited

Event Sales Coordinator

Haymarket, VA

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

... planning process, ensuring all client needs and preferences are documented and communicated effectively. * Support the creation and distribution of event proposals, contracts, event orders, floor ...

Invited Clubs

Event Sales Coordinator

Haymarket, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

... planning process, ensuring all client needs and preferences are documented and communicated effectively. * Support the creation and distribution of event proposals, contracts, event orders, floor ...

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All JobsContract Event Planner JobsContract Event Planner Jobs in Virginia

Contract Event Planner information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$30

$43

How much do contract event planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract event planner in Virginia is $30.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.85 and $35.05 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.

How much money does an event planner get?

Contract event planners typically earn between $20 and $75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of events. Annual salaries can range from $40,000 to over $80,000 for experienced professionals working on large or high-profile events.

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.

Can you become a freelance event planner?

Yes, a contract event planner can work as a freelance event planner by offering services independently to clients. Freelancers typically need strong organizational skills, industry experience, and may use tools like event management software to coordinate events. Building a network and establishing a portfolio are important for success in freelancing.

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 the contract for an event planner?

A contract for an event planner is a formal agreement that outlines the scope of work, responsibilities, payment terms, deadlines, and other key details of the event planning services. It helps ensure clear expectations and legal protection for both parties involved in the event planning process.

What are contract event planners?

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 is the highest salary for an event planner?

The highest salaries for contract event planners can exceed $100,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working on large-scale events. Compensation varies based on location, complexity of events, and client budgets, with top earners often managing high-profile or corporate events.
More about Contract Event Planner jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Event Planner jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Event Planner jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Event Planner jobs in Virginia? For Contract Event Planner jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Event Planner jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Event Planner jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Contract Event Planner jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Contract Event Planner job openings:
Contract Event Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Event Planner job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,792 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Event Planner

Coptic Orphans

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Event Planner

Purpose of the Job

The Event Planner is the primary operational executor of all Coptic Orphans events, working under the direction of the Campaign Manager to plan, coordinate, and deliver fundraising and public relations events of all sizes, including galas, fundraising dinners, 5K runs, and community gatherings. This role translates the Campaign Manager's strategic direction into seamless, well-executed events, managing all logistics, vendor relationships, timelines, and on-site operations from inception through post-event evaluation.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Event Coordination:

  • Execute the day-to-day planning and operational delivery of all events under the direction of the Campaign Manager, managing logistics, scheduling, and cross-functional coordination across events of all sizes.
  • Research and identify the best travel and accommodation options for all staff involved in each event, within the approved event budget, and manage detailed itineraries to ensure smooth, timely logistics for all stakeholders.

Budget Tracking:

  • Track and monitor all event expenditures, process invoices, and prepare budget reports for the Campaign Manager, ensuring spending remains within approved financial guidelines.

Vendor and Venue Coordination:

  • Research, evaluate, and coordinate venues and vendors to ensure all services meet organizational standards and budget parameters, as approved by the Campaign Manager. Manage all vendor communications, contracts, and delivery timelines.

Communications Coordination:

  • Coordinate with the Communications team to ensure all event promotional materials, scripts, invitations, and digital content are briefed, produced, and delivered on time in alignment with the event timeline.

On-site Event Support:

  • Assist the campaign manager to lead on-site event operations, including setup, registration, volunteer coordination, and real-time troubleshooting, ensuring a seamless and professional experience for all attendees.

Post-event Evaluation:

  • Collect and compile event feedback from attendees, vendors, and team members, and prepare a structured post-event report for the Campaign Manager covering outcomes, lessons learned, and recommendations for future events.

Knowledge and Skills

  • Bachelor's degree in Communication, English, Public Relations, Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field.
  • 1–3 years of professional experience in event planning.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), as well as Outlook, Teams, and SharePoint.
  • Ability to understand Arabic is required; reading and writing proficiency is a plus.
  • Knowledge of Coptic culture is required.
  • Strong organizational and multitasking skills with attention to detail.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Creative problem-solving skills, with the ability to handle stress in a fast-paced environment

Travel Requirements and Working Conditions

  • Domestic travel may reach up to 30% of the time. Occasional international travel is expected.
  • Typical office environment such as walking, sitting, typing, using office equipment, and occasional lifting of boxes or luggage during travel.
  • Working out of official hours and on weekends may be required.

Our Benefits

Coptic Orphans offers a wide range of benefits, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, optional Short-term and Long-term Disability coverage, access to on-site fitness, an employee assistance program, and paid time off. Employees have the option to participate in a company-sponsored 403(b) retirement plan.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro