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Contract Event Planner Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Marbles Kids Museum

Event Sales Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Manages catering and vendor contracts and the receipt of certificates of insurance as required. * Responsible for strategic, short and long-term planning of the Special Event's and Facility Rentals ...

Marbles Kids Museum

Event Sales Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Manages catering and vendor contracts and the receipt of certificates of insurance as required. * Responsible for strategic, short and long-term planning of the Special Event's and Facility Rentals ...

V R Della Infotech Inc

USA - Meeting Planner

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$52K - $71K/yr

... Contract: 9 months Possible Contract to Hire Role? Yes Top 3-5 Must Have Non-negotiable Skills Required 1. Organization 2. Customer service oriented attitude 3. Event planning experience 4. ...

Leigh and Co.

Wedding Coordinator

Raleigh, NC

$350/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 is ...

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All JobsContract Event Planner JobsContract Event Planner Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Contract Event Planner information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$29

$42

How much do contract event planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract event planner in Raleigh, NC is $29.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.37 and $34.33 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.
More about Contract Event Planner jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Event Planner jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Event Planner jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Event Planner jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Contract Event Planner jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Event Planner jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Event Planner jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Contract Event Planner jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Contract Event Planner job openings:
Contract Event Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Event Planner job openings in Raleigh, NC 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 $61,567 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Event Sales Manager

Marbles Kids Museum

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Event Sales Manager
Marbles Kids Museum is a vibrant, nonprofit children's museum and IMAX Theatre located in the heart of downtown Raleigh. Marbles has been sparking imagination, discovery, and learning through play since opening its doors in 2007. Marbles' serves a diverse population of families, school groups, and community organizations through award-winning play-based exhibits, summer camps, IMAX documentaries, feature movies, and special events year-round. Today Marbles ranks among the top family destinations in North Carolina providing learning experiences for children with creative programs, and larger-than-life movies.
The Opportunity
The Event Sales Manager promotes and sells private facility rentals to clients including but not limited to corporations, family celebrations, meetings, non-profits and Marbles sponsors. In addition, the manager is responsible for executing Marbles internal fundraising events by playing a lead role in the planning and logistics.
Essential Job Responsibilities
  • Leads the planning, logistics, and execution of private facility rentals including but not limited to corporate and IMAX theater events.
  • Promotes Marbles to prospective facility rental clients, showcasing our space and venue offerings through phone conversations, email, and in-person tours including but not limited to corporate, play parties, school dances, and IMAX theater events.
  • Manages budgets, financials, and timelines to ensure events are on schedule to achieve their goals for assigned facility rentals and events.
  • Brings the vision and production to life for Marbles fundraising events by coordinating the planning to execution in collaboration with other team members.
  • Builds and maintains relationships across the event industry with clients and vendors to maintain good relationships and optimize facility rental operations while minimizing expenses.
  • Works in partnership with clients to coordinate event logistics, planning and day of execution in collaboration with the event hosts.
  • As part of the special events and facility rentals team, provides support for Marbles' family-friendly and 21+ events.
  • Updates and maintains events calendar (both Tripleseat and Outlook Operations calendars) and communicates information to the broader team on rentals.
  • Communicates event operational needs with IT, housekeeping, security, event and the guest engagement teams in a timely manner.
  • Manages catering and vendor contracts and the receipt of certificates of insurance as required.
  • Responsible for strategic, short and long-term planning of the Special Event's and Facility Rentals department in collaboration with the supervisor and the Event Manager.
  • Maintain and organize event-related equipment and Museum catering kitchens (2) as needed.
  • Serve as Event Host or support for occasional daytime events and for some evening and weekend events as needed.
  • Perform all other duties assigned by the manager.
Supervisory Responsibilities
  • Recruits, interviews, hires, and trains new Event Host team members.
  • Oversees the scheduling and daily workflow of the Events Hosts.
  • Oversees payroll processing, performance and conducts performance evaluations for the Events Hosts.
  • Handles discipline and termination of team members in accordance with company policy.
Ideal Experience & Skills
  • Bachelor's degree in Hospitality and Event Planning, or related field preferred.
  • Five years of experience in event planning, hospitality, customer service or related field preferred.
  • Two years of management experience preferred.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Exceptional interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Superb time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and delegate them when appropriate.
  • Ability to respond to problems and assist clients in a calm, courteous and helpful manner.
  • Excellent organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
  • Thorough understanding of event permits, regulations and restrictions.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Demonstrated ability to provide effective feedback and receive constructive coaching.
Physical Demands
  • Walking, standing for extended periods, stooping, bending.
  • Moving equipment, pushing/pulling carts, carrying heavy items.
  • Must be able to lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.
Work Environment
  • Conditions sometimes involving low light, flashing lights, and loud noises.
  • Occasional hot or cold outdoor environments.
  • Flexible schedule required, including weekends, evenings and holidays.

If you require reasonable accommodations to complete the hiring process, please contact the People Team at ojohnson@marbleskidsmuseum.org or 919-857-1069.
Please be aware that employment with Marbles Kids Museum is contingent on a satisfactory background check and references.
Marbles Kids Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment opportunities because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, disability, genetic information or any other federal, state or local protected class.

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