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Event Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Attention to detail across event design, communications, and production is required, and the Senior Events Manager will need to be comfortable operating at both a strategic and tactical level. This ...

We design places where people love to be together. Populous is a global design firm that began with ... event design experience Additional Information: * Travel will be required. Compensation: * The ...

Senior Events Manager

Stanford, CA · On-site

$142K - $164K/yr

Attention to detail across event design, communications, and production is required, and the Senior Events Manager will need to be comfortable operating at both a strategic and tactical level. This ...

We offer a full range of products-from digital content to live events-to our clients and need ... You'll report into design and branded content leadership elevating content on a variety of ...

We offer a full range of products-from digital content to live events-to our clients and need ... You'll report into design and branded content leadership elevating content on a variety of ...

Responsibilities Fundraising Event Design & Execution * Produce and coordinate key fundraisers, events, and initiatives throughout the year such as the annual Spring Break gala, donor salons, and ...

Responsibilities Fundraising Event Design & Execution * Produce and coordinate key fundraisers, events, and initiatives throughout the year such as the annual Spring Break gala, donor salons, and ...

The team includes professionals with backgrounds in event design, management, operations, broadcast, and production. We're looking for inventive and collaborative people from a variety of creative ...

Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company - we are looking for planners. We provide wedding design, wedding coordination and planning services for engaged couples. The Lead Wedding ...

Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company - we are looking for planners. We provide wedding design, wedding coordination and planning services for engaged couples. The Lead Wedding ...

Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company - we are looking for planners. We provide wedding design, wedding coordination and planning services for engaged couples. The Lead Wedding ...

Wedding Planner

Monterey, CA · On-site

$400/wk

Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company - we are looking for planners. We provide wedding design, wedding coordination and planning services for engaged couples. The Lead Wedding ...

Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company - we are looking for planners. We provide wedding design, wedding coordination and planning services for engaged couples. The Lead Wedding ...

Showing results 21-40

Event Design information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do event design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for event design in California is $17.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is event design?

Event design is the process of creating the overall look, feel, and atmosphere of an event. It involves developing a cohesive concept that includes elements like theme, color scheme, decor, lighting, and layout to enhance the attendee experience. Event designers work closely with clients to understand their vision and transform it into a memorable and visually appealing event. Their work can range from weddings and corporate gatherings to large-scale festivals and conferences.

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

To thrive as an Event Designer, you need a strong background in creative design, spatial planning, and event production, often supported by a degree in event management, interior design, or a related field. Proficiency with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, CAD programs, and event planning tools is commonly required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and client management skills help you stand out in this role. These abilities are essential for delivering memorable, visually appealing events that meet client goals and run smoothly from concept to execution.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in event design and how can they be addressed?

Event Design professionals often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines, balancing creative concepts with client budgets, and coordinating with multiple vendors and stakeholders. To address these challenges, it is important to maintain clear communication, develop detailed timelines, and stay flexible to adapt to last-minute changes. Building strong relationships with trusted suppliers and using project management tools can also help streamline the process and ensure a successful event execution.

What is the difference between Event Design vs Event Planning?

AspectEvent DesignEvent Planning
Primary FocusCreating the visual and thematic concept of an eventOrganizing logistics, timelines, and vendor coordination
Skills NeededCreativity, design, aestheticsOrganization, communication, project management
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, client meetings, on-site setupVendor meetings, on-site coordination, timeline management
Common UsageIn event conceptualization and decorIn overall event execution and logistics

Event Design focuses on the visual and thematic aspects of an event, creating the overall look and feel. Event Planning involves managing the logistics, vendors, and timelines to ensure the event runs smoothly. Both roles often collaborate but serve different core functions in the event industry.

What does an event design do?

An event designer plans and creates the visual and thematic elements of an event, including layout, decor, lighting, and ambiance. They collaborate with clients and vendors to ensure the event's aesthetic aligns with the desired experience, often using design software and project management skills. Their role involves conceptualizing ideas and coordinating logistics to bring the event vision to life.

What are the most commonly searched types of Event Design jobs in California?

The most popular types of Event Design jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Event Design jobs in California look for?

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

What cities in California are hiring for Event Design jobs?

Cities in California with the most Event Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Event Design job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,377 per year, or $17 per hour.

$142K - $164K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Stanford University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

213th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Stanford University is seeking a Senior Events Manager to provide leadership and direction for new and current event programs and projects for the Dean's Office at the School of Medicine. We are seeking a leader who can balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution in a fast-paced, high-visibility environment. This role requires strong creative instincts and a passion for designing meaningful experiences. The successful candidate will need to think strategically about audience engagement, community-building, and brand presence. Attention to detail across event design, communications, and production is required, and the Senior Events Manager will need to be comfortable operating at both a strategic and tactical level. This role requires a strong executive presence and the ability to engage confidently with other senior leaders, speakers, and external partners. This leader will develop and mentor staff, working with the Events Director to provide opportunities for professional growth and ensuring the efficient operation of events.

Duties include*:

  • Manage staff in the day-to-day operations for functional area(s) of responsibility. Responsible for hiring and retaining staff, career coaching, personal development for direct reports and accountable for the performance of employees. Ensure work completion within schedule and constraints.
  • Provide strategic leadership for the creation, development, and execution of events.
  • Build effective and focused event planning teams; create strong morale and team spirit.
  • Oversee the management of event teams and/or production consultants to produce quality, multi-faceted events and productions.
  • Work cross-departmentally to prepare and manage complex program budgets and ROI proposals.
  • Delegate both routine and important tasks and decisions, while assuming final responsibility for event logistics through effective team management.
  • Frequently interact with subordinate supervisors, customers, and/or functional peer group managers, normally involving matters between functional areas or other schools, departments/units.
  • Analyze successes and failures and implement improvements; marshal resources to accomplish goals.
  • Scope the length and difficulty of tasks, projects, and events; help team break down work into process steps. Identify opportunities for synergy and integration.
  • Develop on-going relationships with internal and external partners.

* - Other duties may also be assigned.
 

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor's degree and eight years of relevant experience or combination of education and relevant experience.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

  • Demonstrated history in creating innovative event planning strategies and successful event collaborations. 
  • Excellent judgment and decisiveness, high integrity, enthusiasm, diplomacy, and tact.
  • A collaborative leader who engages and empowers an organized team of event planning professionals, fostering a strong, cohesive team environment.
  • Superior verbal and written communication skills. 
  • Skilled at developing a staff of professionals and support personnel. Includes selection, motivation, and leadership of staff, as well as evaluation and development.
  • Demonstrated competency in budget management, cost accounting and vendor contract relationships.
  • Exceptional customer service skills with the ability to cultivate professional business partnerships.
     

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:

Must possess and maintain a valid California non-commercial Class C Driver's License.


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

  • Frequently stand/walk, sit, perform desk-based computer tasks, and use a telephone.
  • Occasionally kneel/crawl, twist/bend/stoop/squat, grasp lightly/fine manipulation, and grasp forcefully, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh 21-40 pounds.
  • Drive vehicle day and/or night with non-commercial license.

* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • May require some travel and working evenings and weekends.

WORK STANDARDS:

  • When conducting university business, must comply with the California Vehicle Code and Stanford University driving requirements. 
  • Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
  • Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
  • Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.
     

The expected pay range for this position is $142,036 to $164,918 per annum. 
Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.
At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanfords extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources by submitting a contact form
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Additional Information
  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Job Code: 4885
  • Employee Status: Regular
  • Grade: J
  • Requisition ID: 109300
  • Work Arrangement : On Site

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