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

aicpa

Conference & Event Operations Manager

Durham, NC · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Reconcile final billing and prepare post-event analysis to support future planning and process improvement. Venue and Vendor Selection and Contract Negotiation * Collaborate with partners to ...

CIMA

Conference & Event Operations Manager

Durham, NC · Hybrid

$80K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Reconcile final billing and prepare post-event analysis to support future planning and process improvement. Venue and Vendor Selection and Contract Negotiation * Collaborate with partners to ...

AICPA

Conference & Event Operations Manager

Durham, NC · Hybrid

$80K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Reconcile final billing and prepare post-event analysis to support future planning and process improvement. Venue and Vendor Selection and Contract Negotiation * Collaborate with partners to ...

AICPA

Conference & Event Operations Manager

Durham, NC · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Reconcile final billing and prepare post-event analysis to support future planning and process improvement. Venue and Vendor Selection and Contract Negotiation * Collaborate with partners to ...

Genesys

Event Marketing Manager, Americas

Durham, NC · On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Manage end-to-end planning and execution of integrated marketing events that support pipeline ... Basic experience with vendor coordination and contract processes * Willingness to travel and ...

LIONHEART HOSPITALITY LLC

Private Dining Manager

Cary, NC · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prepare proposals, contracts, banquet event orders (BEOs), and invoices. * Maintain strong ... Event Planning & Coordination * Guide clients through the planning process from initial inquiry ...

THE UMSTEAD HOTEL & SPA

Corporate Catering Manager

Cary, NC · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The position includes prospecting, client relationship management, event planning, contract preparation, and coordinating events with hotel departments. Job Requirements: * Actively solicit and ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 15, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,567 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Conference & Event Operations Manager

aicpa

Durham, NC • On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

About the Role:
You will deliver mid- to large-scale conferences, meetings, and events, including in-person, virtual, and hybrid experiences. Manage logistics, budgets, technology, and vendor relationships to deliver high-quality educational and networking experiences. Apply industry best practices and operational expertise to ensure seamless execution, attendee satisfaction, and financial accountability. You will report to the Lead Manager, Conference & Events Management and use a hybrid work schedule.
You Will:
Event Management
  • Be the primary operations liaison for assigned conferences and events, partnering with our teams, external vendors, venues, sponsors, and others to ensure operational agreement and successful event delivery.
  • Create conference event orders and event space layouts, including specialized areas and exhibits, to support a creative, engaging, and cost-effective participant experience.
  • Collaborate with sales and sponsorship teams on exhibit floor plans, sponsorship fulfillment, onsite logistics, vendor coordination, and related cost management.
  • Manage meeting logistics, including management of any temporary staff or volunteers.
  • Partner with the Virtual Events team to deliver a cohesive experience for virtual and in-person attendees.
  • Stay current on industry trends, latest technology, and event best practices.

Financial Management
  • Manage annual budgets for assigned conferences, including forecasting, financial tracking, expense management, and identifying opportunities to improve profitability and cost efficiencies.
  • Reconcile final billing and prepare post-event analysis to support future planning and process improvement.

Venue and Vendor Selection and Contract Negotiation
  • Collaborate with partners to establish dates and locations for future conferences and manage the venue procurement process.
  • Conduct site inspections and recommend locations based on program requirements, attendee experience, budget, and operational needs.
  • Negotiate contracts with hotels, AV providers, temporary agencies, and other vendors to secure favorable terms, minimize organizational risk and liability, and maximize our cost savings

You Have:
  • Bachelor's degree
  • 6+ years relevant conference, tradeshow, or event professional work experience

How We Support You:
We provide flexibility to help you achieve a good work-life balance. You'll be part of a global, diverse team who foster an environment of inclusion and belonging where you are valued for who you are and where you come from.
We offer benefit options in and out of the workplace, including healthcare, retirement, paid time-off, parental leave, an employee assistance program. We provide resources that support your mental health, and evolve our offerings to meet your needs. We care about our employees' welfare and focus our benefits package on the benefits which support your wellbeing. We also recognize that everyone has different priorities, so in addition to our core benefits to support your health we offer flexible options for you to choose benefits that are right for you, your family and your lifestyle.
We believe in non-stop learning and are committed to investing in learning opportunities that help you reach your full potential and support your continued development.
About Us:
At The Association, a Great Place to Work-Certified company, we are transforming the accounting and finance profession. We are future-focused, empowering the world's most accomplished accountants to stay relevant, meet today's demands, and prepare for tomorrow's challenges through quality education, resources, and training.
Learn more about The Association on LinkedIn and our Career Site.
#LI-Hybrid #GreatPlacetoWork
We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, or veteran status. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.
The Annual Salary Range for this role is: $80k - $90k
Please note, this is a standard range and exact compensation may vary based on experience and location. If you'd like to understand more on the salary range, please contact humanresources@aicpa-cima.com
If you're interested in this role, please apply beforeAugust 31st, 2026.
While this role can work remotely in the US, please note that we are unable to employ individuals in the state of California.

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