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Contract Event Planning 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 ...

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Contract Event Planning information

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$13

$29

$42

How much do contract event planning jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract event planning 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.

Is there a demand for contract event planners?

Contract event planners are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for event coordination across industries such as corporate, social, and nonprofit sectors. They often find work through staffing agencies or freelance platforms and benefit from strong organizational skills and industry knowledge. The demand can fluctuate based on economic conditions and event trends, but overall, contract roles remain a common employment option in the field.

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

To thrive as a Contract Event Planner, you need strong project management, organizational abilities, and experience in logistics, often supported by a background in hospitality or event management. Familiarity with event management software (like Cvent or Eventbrite), budgeting tools, and vendor management systems is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, creativity, and problem-solving aptitude help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure seamless event execution, client satisfaction, and the ability to handle unexpected challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Contract Event Planning vs Event Coordinator?

AspectContract Event PlanningEvent Coordinator
CredentialsExperience in event management, certifications like CMP or CSEP often preferredSimilar credentials, often with event planning or hospitality background
Work EnvironmentTypically project-based, working with multiple clients on different eventsUsually employed by a specific organization or venue, coordinating internal events
Employer & Industry UsageFreelance or contracted roles across various industriesHotels, corporations, non-profits, and event venues
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding freelance or temporary event planning rolesManaging ongoing or internal events within an organization

Contract Event Planning involves managing events on a temporary, project basis, often as a freelancer or contractor, focusing on client-specific needs. Event Coordinators typically work within organizations or venues, overseeing internal event execution. Both roles require similar skills and credentials but differ mainly in employment structure and scope.

How to become a contract event planner?

To become a contract event planner, gain experience in event coordination through internships or entry-level roles, develop strong organizational and communication skills, and familiarize yourself with event management tools. Building a professional network and obtaining certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) can also enhance your credibility and job prospects in contract-based event planning.

What is contract event planning?

Contract event planning involves organizing and coordinating events on a freelance or contractual basis, rather than as a full-time employee of a company. Contract event planners are hired for specific events, such as weddings, conferences, or corporate functions, and are responsible for managing logistics, vendors, budgets, and timelines. They often work independently or as part of an agency, providing flexible services tailored to each client's needs. This role requires excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills to ensure successful event execution.

What are common challenges contract event planners face when managing multiple clients simultaneously?

Contract event planners often juggle multiple clients and events at once, which can present challenges in prioritizing tasks, managing deadlines, and maintaining clear communication. Staying organized is critical, as each client may have unique requirements, budgets, and timelines. Effective time management and the ability to quickly adapt to last-minute changes are essential skills. Building strong relationships with vendors and leveraging project management tools can help streamline processes and ensure all events run smoothly.
What are the most commonly searched types of Event Planning jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Event Planning jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Contract Event Planning jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Contract Event Planning job openings:
Contract Event Planning jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Event Planning job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% 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 11 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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