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Event Design Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Event Design & Participant Experience * Lead event design in coordination with program leads and stakeholders - including agenda structure, session formats, attendee flow, networking opportunities ...

You will partner closely with Event Design, Brand, and Sales to ensure every event becomes a demand generation engine. In This Role, You Will: WHAT YOU'LL OWN Hosted and Attended Event Campaign ...

Uses his/her judgment to integrate current trends in event management and event design. Acts as liaison between field salesperson and customer throughout the event process (pre-event, event, post ...

Uses his/her judgment to integrate current trends in event management and event design. Acts as liaison between field salesperson and customer throughout the event process (pre-event, event, post ...

Implement timelines and concepts for event design, on-site installation/set up and event branding. Bring a commercially focused mindset to all events, ensuring programming supports business ...

Events Manager

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$62K - $79K/yr

... event management and event design. • Acts as liaison between field salesperson and customer throughout the event process (pre-event, event, post-event). • Participates in customer site ...

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 ...

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Event Design information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do event design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for event design in Virginia is $17.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Event Design jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Event Design jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Event Design job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 85% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,539 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Manager of Programs & Events (Remote)

ihs

Arlington, VA

$60K - $75K/yr

Other

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Job Summary

The Manager of Programs & Events (internal title: Manager, Program Operations) is responsible for the end-to-end planning and execution of IHS convenings (events) across a portfolio of in-person and virtual programs. The role owns operational delivery – including logistics, technology, and design – and serves as the primary operational coordinator across academic, communications, and development teams, translating program goals into executed events.

Supervisory Responsibilities

  • None.

Duties & Responsibilities

Event Planning & Execution

  • Own a portfolio of in-person and virtual convenings (approximately ten annually) from concept through close-out, ensuring each meet IHS standards for quality, logistics, and participant experience.
  • Develop and maintain detailed project plans for owned programs, including task assignments, milestone tracking, and cross-functional dependencies.
  • Direct pre-event logistics for owned programs, including venue sourcing and coordination, room setup, A/V configuration, catering, run-of-show development, and on-site staffing plans.
  • Staff and oversee programs (on-site and virtual, as it applies). Travel up to approximately 25% for on-site programs; on-site responsibilities require the ability to lift 20 pounds or more.
    o    Serve as the primary operational point of contact and resolve issues in real time.
  • Provide operational and logistical support for additional programs led by other staff, as needed — including registration setup, technology configuration, and on-site staffing.

Event Technology

  • Administer the event and operations technology stack – including registration and virtual event platforms (Cvent), CRM (Salesforce), project management (Asana), travel booking (Egencia), and mass communications (MassMailer) – configuring registration workflows, attendee communications, and data capture, and troubleshooting platform issues in real time during program delivery.
  • Evaluate emerging event technology and recommend tools or process improvements that enhance operational efficiency or attendee experience.

Event Design & Participant Experience

  • Lead event design in coordination with program leads and stakeholders – including agenda structure, session formats, attendee flow, networking opportunities, and environmental elements – developing scalable solutions across diverse program types and audience profiles aligned to program goals.
  • Ensure participant-facing communications and materials reflect IHS brand standards and provide a cohesive attendee experience from registration through follow-up.

Internal Stakeholder Management

  • Serve as the primary operational liaison between the Program Operations team and internal partners (academic faculty, development, communications, executive leadership), leading recurring cross-functional program meetings, managing expectations, communicating status, and flagging and escalating risks as needed.
  • Prepare and distribute internal briefings, logistics memos, and post-event recaps for leadership and partnering teams.

Operations & Continuous Improvement

  • Maintain and refine program templates, checklists, standard operating procedures, and institutional documentation to support team-wide consistency and knowledge transfer.
  • Conduct after-action reviews and identify cross-program patterns to drive process improvement and scalable practices.
  • Operationalize new and experimental program types, applying existing organizational process assets while piloting new approaches.

Required Qualifications

  • 4+ years of experience in event management, program operations, or a closely related field.
  • Demonstrated expertise in event logistics and execution across in-person and virtual formats; strong project management skills.
  • Hands-on experience with event and operations technology, including proficiency with at least one registration or virtual event platform (e.g., Cvent, Hopin, Whova) and a CRM.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with demonstrated cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage complex, ambiguous, and time-sensitive programs and exercise sound judgment.
  • High degree of organization and detail orientation, with the ability to manage multiple overlapping programs simultaneously.
  • Experience with data-informed decision-making and performance tracking.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with the IHS technology stack or comparable platforms (Cvent, Salesforce, Asana, Egencia, MassMailer).
  • Familiarity with academic environments and the expectations of an intellectually engaged audience.
  • Experience designing scalable, audience-centered event formats.
  • Alignment with the mission and institutional priorities of the Institute for Humane Studies.

Salary Range

$60,000–$75,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications. Total compensation also includes health and wellness benefits, as detailed below.