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Event Operations Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Event Coordinators

Campus, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Details Open Date 06/09/2026 Requisition Number PRN17135N Job Title Event Coordinators Working Title Event Merchandise & Operations Assistant Career Progression Track S00 Track Level S1 - Entry Level ...

Event Coordinators

Campus, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Details Open Date 06/09/2026 Requisition Number PRN17135N Job Title Event Coordinators Working Title Event Merchandise & Operations Assistant Career Progression Track S00 Track Level S1 - Entry Level ...

Event Coordinators

Campus, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Details Open Date 06/09/2026 Requisition Number PRN17135N Job Title Event Coordinators Working Title Event Merchandise & Operations Assistant Career Progression Track S00 Track Level S1 - Entry Level ...

Event Coordinators

Campus, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Support event logistics and assist with resolving operational issues during events. Work flexible schedules including evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended shifts based on event needs. Perform ...

Event Staff

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Greet fans and provide proactive customer service * Assist with screening for prohibited items * Support event operations such as ticket taking, ushering, and guest services * Stay aware of ...

Event Staff

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Greet fans and provide proactive customer service * Assist with screening for prohibited items * Support event operations such as ticket taking, ushering, and guest services * Stay aware of ...

Event Staff

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Greet fans and provide proactive customer service * Assist with screening for prohibited items * Support event operations such as ticket taking, ushering, and guest services * Stay aware of ...

Event Staff

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Greet fans and provide proactive customer service * Assist with screening for prohibited items * Support event operations such as ticket taking, ushering, and guest services * Stay aware of ...

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Event Operations Assistant information

What is an event operations assistant?

Event Operations Assistants are professionals who support the planning and execution of events such as conferences, weddings, concerts, and corporate functions. Their responsibilities typically include setting up event spaces, coordinating vendors, assisting guests, and troubleshooting issues during the event. They work closely with event managers to ensure that every aspect of the event runs smoothly and according to plan. This role often requires excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an event operations assistant?

To thrive as an Event Operations Assistant, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and experience in event planning or hospitality, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with event management software, scheduling tools, and Microsoft Office Suite is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you adapt to changing situations and coordinate effectively with vendors and team members. These competencies are crucial to ensure smooth event execution, client satisfaction, and the ability to handle unexpected challenges efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by event operations assistants during large-scale events?

Event Operations Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing tight timelines, coordinating with multiple vendors, and adapting quickly to last-minute changes. During large-scale events, it's crucial to stay organized and communicate effectively with team members to ensure smooth execution. Being proactive, detail-oriented, and maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure are key to overcoming these hurdles. Additionally, Event Operations Assistants frequently collaborate with event planners, venue staff, and logistics teams to resolve issues as they arise.

What is the difference between Event Operations Assistant vs Event Coordinator?

AspectEvent Operations AssistantEvent Coordinator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer certifications in event managementSimilar; often requires experience or certifications in event planning
Work EnvironmentSupport staff working behind the scenes during events, often in fast-paced settingsOversees event planning and execution, interacts with clients and vendors
Employer & Industry UsageEvent venues, production companies, corporate eventsEvent planning firms, corporate event departments, non-profits

While both roles support event execution, the Event Operations Assistant primarily handles logistical support and setup tasks, whereas the Event Coordinator manages overall planning, client communication, and coordination. The assistant focuses on supporting the team, while the coordinator oversees the entire event process.

Is being an event operations assistant a stressful job?

Event operations assistants often work in fast-paced environments that require multitasking and problem-solving skills, which can lead to stressful situations, especially during large or complex events. However, the level of stress varies depending on the event size, workload, and individual experience, and good organization and communication can help manage stress effectively.

What are the most commonly searched types of Event Operations jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Event Operations jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Event Operations Assistant jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Event Operations Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Event Operations Assistant job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Event Operations Assistant (Student)

American

Campus, IL

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Work Where You Learn: Build Experience, Grow Skills, and Contribute to Your University Community.This position is available only to enrolled American University students.

Most student positions at American University are eligible to use Federal Work Study (FWS) awards, with a few exceptions. FWS funds cannot be applied to janitorial, construction, partisan or sectarian positions. For information or questions regarding FWS funds, please contact American University's Office of Financial Aid.

Important guidance for current American University employees: American University current employees, including those employed in student positions, must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoyour employee Workday accountand select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings. Applying outside of your employee Workday account may cause delays in a hire process.

Department:

University Special Events

Time Type:

Part time

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt

Job Description:

Summary:

The Office of Special Events is a collaborative team that plans and supports a wide range of campus-wide and AU House events, including academic ceremonies, university-wide events, and presidential initiatives.

The Student Operations Assistant provides administrative and event support to the Office of Special Events. Working under the direction of the Director and Assistant Director of Special Events, this position assists with event preparation, event-day operations, and post-event follow-up while gaining hands-on experience in event management.

This role supports the day-to-day operations of the office by assisting with event logistics, maintaining event materials, preparing communications and event documents, and providing excellent customer service to campus partners and guests.

This position supports events, provides administrative support also responsible for budgetary management needing to perform duties such as tracking and reconciling complex budgets, vendor management, ROI tracking, and coordinating and activating institutional resources when appropriate.This dynamic position also has the opportunity to perform other related duties as assigned. The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning duties logically related to the position.


This position will assist the Director of Special Events and the Assistant Director of Special Events in executing event strategies for the division.

Essential Functions:

1.) Administrative Support

  • Monitor and respond to department email accounts by routing inquiries to the appropriate staff member and assisting with routine communications as directed.

  • Manage and track event budgets, reconcile expenses, and submit invoices for payment.

  • Oversee the borrowing of department-lendable items while maintaining organization and inventory.

  • Maintain event files, shared calendars, digital documents, and other administrative resources to support office operations.

  • Develop relationships and manage contracts with on-campus venues, departments, caterers, photographers, and other partners.

  • Compile meeting materials, agendas, and post-event meeting notes as requested.

  • Prepare event supplies, signage, registration lists, name tags, programs, and other departmental materials.

  • Support post-event administrative tasks, including cataloging feedback and assisting with event closeout documentation.

  • Perform other administrative duties and special projects as assigned by the Director or Assistant Director of Special Events.

2.) Event Support

  • Assist the Special Events team with executing university events, including commencement ceremonies, university receptions, presidential events, and other strategic programs.

  • Provide event-day support through event setup, welcoming guests, staffing registration and check-in, directing attendees, monitoring event spaces, and assisting professional staff with operational needs through breakdown.

  • Maintain event timelines, checklists, and other planning documents under the guidance of professional staff.

  • Represent the Office of Special Events in a professional and courteous manner when interacting with students, faculty, staff, vendors, and guests.

  • Support post-event breakdown, inventory, and organization of event materials and equipment.

Competencies:

  • Prioritizing and Organizing.

  • Developing Plans.

  • Making Accurate Judgments and Decisions.

  • Acquiring and Analyzing Information.

  • Displaying Creativity.

  • Supporting Coworkers.

  • Acting Strategically.

  • Serving Customers.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

  • Part-time.

  • 20 hours per week.

Salary Range:

  • $20.00 per hour.

Preferred Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degreeor equivalent experience supporting event logistics and/or communication efforts.

  • 2 - 4 years of relevant experience.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:

  • Experience supporting the planning and execution of high-level events is preferred.

  • Excellent written, verbal, interpersonal, and customer service skills.

  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Work may be required evenings and weekends in support of university events such as the annual Commencement Weekend and/or to meet deadlines.

Other Details

  • This position is available only to enrolled American University students.

  • Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

  • American University is an E-Verify employer.

  • Visit https://www.american.edu/hr/ for additional information about American University employment and benefits.

Current American University Employees

American University current employees (including those employed in student positions) must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoWorkdayand select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, emailtheworkline@american.edu.

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual's genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.