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Event Decorator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Socket.dev

Decorator Showcase Director

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$135 - $150/hr

As the premier showcase house event on the West Coast, this month-long public event transforms an ... Serve as a key spokesperson for the Decorator Showcase and Financial Aid programs, building strong ...

Heritage Auctions

Set Director

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$28/hr

... decorator, art director, or physical production designer who can combine creative concepting with hands-on, cost-effective execution across our galleries, trade shows, pop-ups, and special events ...

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Event Decorator information

See California salary details

$5

$21

$33

How much do event decorator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for event decorator in California is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.43 and $33.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an event decorator do?

An Event Decorator is responsible for designing and setting up the visual elements of events such as weddings, parties, corporate gatherings, and other special occasions. They work with clients to create a desired atmosphere, selecting and arranging decorations like flowers, lighting, table settings, backdrops, and props. Their goal is to transform venues according to a theme or vision, ensuring that every detail aligns with the client's expectations and the event's purpose.

What does an event decorator do?

An event decorator plans the aesthetic and atmosphere of an event. In this career, you work closely with your clients to create a theme, plan the decor, and make sure that everything is in its place. You usually work on all elements of the space, including the colors, the lighting, and other things that bring the design together. You also work with the vendors, the event planners, and other people that play a role in getting a venue together for an event. It is common to work on a freelance or contract basis in this field, so you have freedom in the events you choose to decorate.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an event decorator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Event Decorator, you need a strong sense of design, creativity, attention to detail, and often a background in interior design or event planning. Familiarity with design software, floral arrangement tools, and basic construction or lighting systems is commonly required. Excellent communication, time management, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate with clients and adapt to changing event needs. These competencies ensure that events are visually appealing, run smoothly, and meet client expectations.

What are some common challenges event decorators face when working on large-scale events?

Event Decorators often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, last-minute client changes, and coordinating logistics with multiple vendors. Managing the setup and breakdown of decor in large venues requires excellent organizational skills and the ability to adapt quickly to unforeseen circumstances. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as decorators frequently collaborate with event planners, florists, and venue staff to ensure a cohesive and timely execution of the event vision.

What is the difference between Event Decorator vs Event Designer?

AspectEvent DecoratorEvent Designer
CredentialsOften no formal certification, but experience and portfolio matterMay have certifications in design or event planning
Work EnvironmentPrimarily on-site at event venues, focusing on decoration setupInvolves conceptual planning, design meetings, and overseeing decor execution
Employer & Industry UsageEvent planning companies, venues, freelanceEvent planning firms, design agencies, freelance
Search & Comparison IntentFocuses on decoration executionFocuses on overall event aesthetic and design concept

While both roles involve creating visually appealing events, an Event Decorator primarily focuses on the physical setup and decoration of the event space. An Event Designer takes a broader approach, conceptualizing the overall event aesthetic and coordinating decor elements to align with the event's theme. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right professional for their event needs.

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The top searched job categories for Event Decorator jobs in California are:

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Cities in California with the most Event Decorator job openings:

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Event Decorator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Event Decorator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,397 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Decorator Showcase Director

San Francisco, CA • On-site

San Francisco University High School
Elementary and Secondary Schools • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about San Francisco University High Schoolexternal

$135K - $150K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

About the Role
Since 1977, the San Francisco Decorator Showcase has raised over $20 million to benefit the San Francisco University High School (UHS) Financial Aid Program. As the premier showcase house event on the West Coast, this month-long public event transforms an exemplary San Francisco home through the collaborative efforts of dozens of lauded designers. Revenue from ticket sales, corporate events, and direct fundraising grants hundreds of deserving Bay Area students access to a world-class college preparatory education.
The Director is responsible for strategically advancing the event's mission while maintaining direct administrative and operational oversight. Reporting to the Director of Development and serving as a key member of the UHS Development Team, you will oversee the entire event lifecycle-from securing the home and managing relationships with homeowners and designers to orchestrating construction logistics and high-end events. Due to the relational nature of this role, it will predominantly be an in person and on site role.
Requirements
Strategic Leadership & Community Relations
  • Vision & Strategy: Implement and continually refine the event's strategic vision, ensuring the program directly aligns with the school's mission and strategic goals.
  • External Ambassadorship: Serve as a key spokesperson for the Decorator Showcase and Financial Aid programs, building strong local and national relationships.
  • Stakeholder Relations: Maintain robust, trusting partnerships with designers, real estate professionals, donors, neighbors, and the broader UHS volunteer community.
  • Board Engagement: Lead the restructure of the Design Advisory Board (DAB)-including creating by-laws, term limits, and job descriptions-and deliver regular progress reports to both the DAB and the UHS Board of Trustees.
Operational Execution & Project Management
  • Site & Venue Management: Identify and confirm annual showcase venues, negotiate lease terms with homeowners, and manage ongoing homeowner and neighbor relations.
  • Construction & Compliance: Oversee and manage the house's physical transformation, including pulling permits, sourcing vendor quotes, managing contractors, and hosting inspectors.
  • Designer Curation: Lead designer recruitment, selection, and overall project management, acting as the primary liaison between the homeowner and designers to ensure work is completed beautifully and on time.
  • Team Leadership: Directly manage the Showcase Operations and Events Manager, alongside seasonal part-time employees and interns, fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture.
Fundraising & Financial Sustainability
  • Budget Oversight: Partner with the UHS Business Office to develop, manage, and scale an annual budget that reflects organizational and strategic priorities.
  • Fundraising Strategy: Collaborate closely with the UHS Development Office to drive corporate underwriting programs and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies.
Key Skills & Attributes
  • Executive Presence: Proven experience leading large-scale projects, high-level volunteer boards, and cross-functional teams.
  • Operations & Logistics Expert: Strong background in complex project management, vendor relations, and navigate regulatory/permitting environments.
  • Fundraising & Relationship Savvy: Demonstrated success in donor cultivation, corporate underwriting, and community engagement.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. UHS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement, medical, vision, dental, and vacation.
Reports To: Director of Development
FLSA Status and Schedule: Exempt 12-month - full time
Salary: $135,000 - $150,000
To Apply
Interested candidates should prepare a resume, cover letter, and any additional portfolio materials that highlight your executive leadership or event production skillset. Please submit all materials using the online application.
Non-Discrimination Policy
San Francisco University High School is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit. School policy prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, gender, religion, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition including genetic characteristics, sexual orientation, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws.
Salary Description
$135,000 - $150,000

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