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Contract Event Planner Jobs in Ridgewood, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Events Manager

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Event Planning & Execution * Direct and supervise logistics for firmwide events, including client ... Research venues, negotiate contracts, and manage budgets. * Oversee event setup, catering ...

Event Coordinator

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$28/hr

Approximately 9-week contract (Beginning August 2026). * Pay: $28/hr. Responsibilities: * Assist with planning and coordinating meetings, conferences, and special events. * Develop and maintain ...

Events Manager

New York, NY ยท On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Event Planning & Execution * Direct and supervise logistics for firmwide events, including client ... Research venues, negotiate contracts, and manage budgets. * Oversee event setup, catering ...

Events Coordinator

Brooklyn, NY ยท On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

What You'll Do Support Event Planning & Logistics * Assist with the planning and execution of ... Escalate vendor, contract, budget, or service issues to the Events Manager or appropriate internal ...

What You'll Do Support Event Planning & Logistics * Assist with the planning and execution of ... Escalate vendor, contract, budget, or service issues to the Events Manager or appropriate internal ...

... event planning and conference center management. Distinct from recruitment agencies, we do not engage in temporary contracts. Our commitment is to foster long-term career development, allowing ...

Events Manager

New York, NY ยท Hybrid

$140K - $160K/yr

Strategic Event Planning & Execution. Oversee the end-to-end planning and execution of client ... Manage all aspects of event logistics, including venue research and selection, contract negotiation ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Event Planner information

See Ridgewood, NJ salary details

$13

$30

$44

How much do contract event planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract event planner in Ridgewood, NJ is $30.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.33 and $35.77 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 Ridgewood, NJ? The most popular types of Event Planner jobs in Ridgewood, NJ are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Event Planner jobs in Ridgewood, NJ? For Contract Event Planner jobs in Ridgewood, NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Event Planner jobs in Ridgewood, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Event Planner jobs in Ridgewood, NJ are:
What cities near Ridgewood, NJ are hiring for Contract Event Planner jobs? Cities near Ridgewood, NJ with the most Contract Event Planner job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Event Planner job openings in Ridgewood, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 64% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,082 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

$110K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Position Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled and detail oriented Event Manager with 10-15 years of experience to support the planning, coordination, and flawless execution of corporate events, conferences, trade shows, customer engagements, and internal programs. This individual will serve as a hands on planner responsible for end to end event logistics while collaborating closely with internal stakeholders, vendors, and cross functional teams.
The ideal candidate brings strong operational rigor, excellent communication skills, deep trade show execution knowledge, and a passion for delivering exceptional event experiences. While this is not a people management role, it requires someone who can independently manage complex projects, adhere to internal policies and procedures, contribute ideas, and thrive within a fast paced team environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Event Planning & Execution
    • Support the full life cycle of events, including concept development, logistics planning, on site execution, and post event wrap up.
    • Manage event timelines, project plans, run of show documents, and budget trackers.
    • Coordinate all event elements such as venue sourcing, catering, audiovisual, dรฉcor, swag, transportation, and production needs.
    • Ensure brand standards and internal policies/procedures are upheld across all event processes and documentation.
    • Execute trade show logistics including booth coordination, exhibitor management, show services, shipping, asset tracking, and pre show/post show operations.
  • Vendor Management
    • Work with third party vendors (venues, production partners, promotional suppliers, printers, transportation providers, trade show contractors, etc.) to obtain competitive quotes and high quality services.
    • Support contract review, negotiation, and invoice reconciliation.
    • Maintain strong vendor relationships and ensure performance meets expectations.
  • Stakeholder & Team Collaboration
    • Participate in internal planning calls, providing clear updates and capturing action items.
    • Support internal stakeholders through organized documentation, timely communication, and proactive follow through.
    • Ensure alignment with internal compliance requirements, procurement processes, finance protocols, and operational standards.
  • Logistics & Operations
    • Prepare event materials including signage, floor plans, attendee guides, and printed collateral.
    • Manage on site setup, execution, attendee experience, exhibitor needs, and real time issue resolution.
    • Coordinate asset management, warehousing, and trade show booth logistics.
  • Post Event Work
    • Conduct post event wrap up including vendor reconciliation, event reporting, cost analysis, and lessons learned.
    • Maintain event documentation, templates, and tools to support process consistency and adherence to internal policies.

Qualifications
  • 10-15 years of experience in event planning or trade show management, ideally in corporate or agency environments.
  • Strong knowledge of event logistics, venue operations, and complex trade show coordination.
  • Excellent project management and organizational skills; ability to manage multiple programs simultaneously.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Experience managing and adhering to internal corporate poli cies, procedures, procurement processes, and budget guidelines.
  • Ability to work on site at events, including evenings or weekends around 30%.
  • Calm under pressure, solutions oriented, and highly resourceful.
  • High attention to detail and commitment to delivering best in class experiences.
  • Associates degree or BA in marketing preferred.

Preferred Skills
  • Experience with sponsorship fulfillment, budgeting, and cost management.
  • Familiarity with production, staging, audiovisual, and trade show services terminology.
  • Ability to adapt quickly in fast paced environments with shifting priorities.
  • Creative mindset with an eye for enhancing the attendee and exhibitor experience.

Salary Range: $110,500-$149,500 a year
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