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Event Operations Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

This includes properly closing the event through Toast. * Assist in developing and distributing ... Operational Excellence * Inspect event spaces before, during, and after events for cleanliness ...

Events & Operations Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

This includes properly closing the event through Toast. * Assist in developing and distributing ... Operational Excellence * Inspect event spaces before, during, and after events for cleanliness ...

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Event Operations Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do event operations assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for event operations assistant in Chicago, IL is $20.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

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 most commonly searched types of Event Operations jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Event Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Event Operations Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Event Operations Assistant job openings:

Banquet & Event Operations Manager

First Batch

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Banquet & Event Operations Manager-Chicago Winery
Chicago Winery creates magic for our guests everyday, whether that's bringing a dream wedding to life, creating a new delicious food dish from our wine, or letting people discover a new passion on one of our winery tours. We do this while maintaining an approachable, warm, inclusive, down-to-earth attitude that reflects our passion to bring traditional winemaking into urban centers so people don't feel they have to travel to experience the magic of winemaking.
We are searching for team members who are committed to working as hospitality professionals. People who deeply care about creating a friendly, warm experience for our guests. People who live and breathe passion for food, wine and events. People that love to learn, share, and tell others about their stories and adventures.
Position Summary
The Banquet & Event Operations Manager will work closely with the Event Manager to coordinate and manage the event space and event staff with the guidance of the Director of Events. The Event Operations Manager will ensure that the events are staffed appropriately, set properly, and run smoothly and efficiently. This position requires a calm demeanor during high paced and intense situations, attentiveness to all guests, and the ability to easily communicate with staff and clientele.
CORE Responsibilities
Staff and Leadership Development
  • Partners with the Director of Events to ensure staffing roster and schedule is appropriate for level of events
  • Assists in hiring and manages Event Staff, keeping an active roster large enough to accommodate the event calendar
  • Monitors staff's performance and provides feedback to Event Staff during, pre, and post
  • Events
  • Provided training and orientation for new event staff, as well as ongoing coaching for existing event staff with one on one meetings and in the moment corrections on Chicago Winery's event food, event beverage, steps of service, and culture.
  • Leads and supervises the Event Staff in all aspects of the department and ensure
  • service standards are followed
  • Ensures proper staffing and scheduling of all Event Staff in accordance to productivity guidelines
  • Provide the team with leadership and motivation to maintain a positive work environment and culture within the team.

Event Execution and Logistics
  • Manages Events day-to-day basis. Weddings will be managed alongside with an Event Manager, other events will be managed solely by the Event Operations Manager
  • Proactively engages with guests & clients to ensure a positive guest experience
  • Handles guest/client concerns and reacts quickly and professionally

Business and Operational Management
  • Balances operational, administrative, and colleague needs
  • Completes event logs and incident, both guest & staff, reports for each event
  • Reviews all Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) to ensure proper set-ups are in place
  • Completes event staffing notes with regards to scheduling in a timely fashion, as to
  • assist with bi-weekly payroll audits
  • Assist with other operational duties such as inventory and ordering.
  • Successfully completes any other duties as instructed by the Director of Events

What We Are Looking For
  • Bachelor's degree, ideally in Management, Communications, or related degree from an accredited university
  • 2-4 years of floor management or event management experience is strongly preferred
  • Flexible schedule with all nights and weekends available
  • Ability to balance administrative responsibilities with floor management
  • Enthusiastic, self-motivated, and outgoing and a team player
  • Ability to establish productive relationships with people at all levels
  • A positive and adaptable approach to problem solving
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment
  • Possess an eye for detail
  • Must demonstrate proficient knowledge and use of computer and basic programs (e.g.,
  • Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word)
  • Exceptional organizational skills
  • Ability to multitask in fast-paced environment, competently handling demanding deadlines
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interface with clients; must demonstrate professional phone and business etiquette
  • Strong budgetary management skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Knowledge of and appreciation of wine strongly preferred

Physical Requirements
  • Able to independently lift up to 25lbs for an extended period of time
  • Must be able to walk and/or stand for 8-10 hours per day
  • Hand-eye coordination
  • Reaching, bending twisting, stooping
  • Pushing and Pulling
  • Lifting overhead
  • Must be able to climb stairs in venue that have multiple level

Compensation/Benefits
  • $70,000K - $80,000K annually
  • Medical, Vision, Dental Insurance
  • PTO
  • Paid Sick Time
  • 401K
  • Commuter Benefits

Chicago Winery provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.