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Event Operations Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a candidate that is highly skilled in event operation planning, management and execution. The ideal candidate has experience executing large-scale events in high pressure situations ...

We are seeking a candidate that is highly skilled in event operation planning, management and execution. The ideal candidate has experience executing large-scale events in high pressure situations ...

This is a hands-on, fast-paced, and highly collaborative role where you'll learn the ins and outs of group travel, airline logistics, and event operations. What You'll Do * Support the coordination ...

Apply Early

Partner across Event Operations, Experience Design, Marketing, IT, Data, and external vendors to deliver integrated outcomes * Continuously improve processes, automation, and attendee experience Own ...

RAGBRAI Ride Operations

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

We are seeking a candidate that is highly skilled in event operation planning, management and execution. The ideal candidate has experience executing large-scale events in high pressure situations ...

Previous banquet, hospitality, event operations, facilities, or setup experience preferred * Prior supervisory or leadership experience preferred * Strong organizational and time-management skills

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Showing results 1-20

Event Operations information

See Iowa salary details

$19.7K

$56.4K

$85.9K

How much do event operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for event operations in Iowa is $56,411.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,600.00 and $66,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Event Operations vs Event Planning?

AspectEvent OperationsEvent Planning
Primary FocusExecuting and managing the logistics of an eventDesigning and coordinating the overall event concept and details
Required SkillsLogistics, vendor management, on-site coordinationCreativity, budgeting, vendor negotiation, client communication
Work EnvironmentOn-site during events, fast-pacedPre-event planning, meetings, and coordination
Common CertificationsEvent management certifications, logistics trainingEvent planning certifications, project management

While both roles are essential in the event industry, Event Operations focuses on the execution and logistics during the event, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Event Planning involves the conceptualization, design, and overall coordination of the event beforehand. Understanding these differences helps professionals and clients identify the right skills and roles needed for successful events.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Event Operations professional, and why are they important?

To excel in Event Operations, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and experience in logistics, often supported by a degree in hospitality or event management. Familiarity with event management software, project management tools, and AV systems is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and adaptability are critical soft skills for managing vendors, clients, and unexpected challenges. Together, these competencies ensure that events run smoothly, efficiently, and meet stakeholders' expectations.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In event operations, high-paying roles such as event managers or coordinators can earn around $10,000 per month with extensive experience, strong organizational skills, and industry connections. These roles often require excellent communication, project management abilities, and sometimes certifications, but typically do not require a college degree.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In event operations, high-paying roles such as event producers, senior event managers, or specialized consultants can earn around $2,000 per day, especially for large-scale or high-profile events. These positions often require extensive experience, strong organizational skills, and sometimes certifications in event management or related fields.

What is the highest paying job in the event industry?

In the event industry, senior roles such as Event Director or Executive Producer tend to be the highest paying, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions require extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and often involve overseeing large-scale events and managing teams.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Event Operations, and how can they be managed effectively?

Professionals in Event Operations often encounter challenges such as last-minute changes, tight deadlines, and coordinating multiple vendors or stakeholders. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are key to managing these situations. Building a reliable network of suppliers and team members, as well as having detailed contingency plans, can help ensure events run smoothly even when unexpected issues arise.

What are event operations?

Event operations refer to the planning, coordination, and management of all logistical aspects required to execute an event smoothly. This includes overseeing venue setup, managing schedules, coordinating with vendors and staff, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and handling any issues that arise during the event. Professionals in event operations work behind the scenes to make sure every detail runs according to plan, from setup to breakdown. Their goal is to create a seamless experience for attendees, clients, and participants.

What do event operations do?

Event operations professionals coordinate and manage the logistical aspects of events, including venue setup, equipment, staffing, and schedules. They ensure that events run smoothly by overseeing tasks such as vendor coordination, safety protocols, and technical support, often using tools like event management software. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential in this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Event Operations jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Event Operations jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Event Operations jobs in Iowa? For Event Operations jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Event Operations jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Event Operations jobs in Iowa are:
Title Operations Manager | Full-Time | Iowa Events Center

Title Operations Manager | Full-Time | Iowa Events Center

Oak View Group

Des Moines, IA

$44K - $47K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Oak View Group rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 35 rated event venues


Job description

Operations Manager | Full-Time | Iowa Events Center
Location US-IA-Des Moines
Job Post Information* : Posted Date 2 weeks ago(6/16/2026 9:58 AM)
Job ID 2026-32446
Location Name Iowa Events Center
Category Operations
Type Regular Full-Time
Location : Location US-IA-Des Moines
Job Post Information* : External Company Name Oak View Group
Job Post Information* : External Company URL https://www.oakviewgroup.com/
Location : Postal Code 50309
Location : Address 730 Third Street
Job Post Information* : Post End Date 9/11/2026
Oak View Group

Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, with a platform spanning venue development and end-to-end capabilities across venue management, hospitality, and sponsorship sales. Founded in 2015, the company serves a collection of seven world-class owned venues and a client roster of the most iconic arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions, spanning four continents. 

Position Summary

The Operations Manager assumes management responsibility for all services and activities involved in the operations of all arena and convention spaces, providing direct supervision of all full-time and part-time hourly employees in the Operations Department, specifically in the areas of housekeeping, room sets, show care, and conversions at the Iowa Events Center. 

This role pays an annual salary of $44,000-$47,000.

Benefits for Full-Time Roles: Health, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) savings plan; 401(k) matching; and paid time off (vacation days, sick days, and 11 holidays).


This position will remain open until September 11, 2026.

Responsibilities
  • Management in areas of planning, coordinating and review of work plans for facility operations
  • Review, interpret and communicate with other management staff on complex event documents to forecast staffing and equipment needs for all arena and convention events
  • Responsible for the coordination and communication of a complex department schedule to ensure proper facility coverage, monitoring labor costs
  • Oversee and monitor changeover and housekeeping crews, providing team support
  • Maintain a healthy & safe work environment in accordance with company, local, state, federal and OSHA regulations / laws
  • Report unsafe working conditions, injuries, employee concerns, or escalated situations to management
  • Represent the company with temporary agencies, contractors, and vendors in a professional manner
  • Communicate with temporary agencies on staffing; schedule and monitor on-site labor
  • Interview applicants for part-time Building Attendant, independently make hiring decisions and onboard
  • Coach, evaluate, mentor employees to correct deficiencies; present / discuss discipline procedures timely
  • Partner with Operations leaders and Human Resources as needed.    
  • Suspend employees, recommend employees for termination, and deliver termination as required
  • Manage DNR (Do Not Return) situations with temporary staff members and agency as required
  • Provide & oversee training for all Operations employees and temporary workers
  • Responsible for understanding, comply with, and supervise employees within parameters of any Collective Bargaining Agreement
  • Maintain positive, professional relations with any Union representatives
  • Coordinate / lead staff training and safety programs
  • Maintains departmental equipment, notifying management when repairs are needed
  • Ensure staff is working safely, monitoring any approved restrictions / reasonable accommodations
  • Participate in the development and administration of the Operations budget; forecast additional funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies; monitor and approve expenditures; and implement adjustments as necessary within assigned responsibilities. Provide recommendations / improvements
  • Coordinate / collaborate on events with Event Managers, Food Services, A/V, I.T., Engineering, etc.
  • Maintain superior interpersonal relations with vendors, contractors, employees, management and temporary employees
  • Work on-site, maintain excellent attendance, and contribute to a safe & healthy work environment
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Bachelor's Degree in facility management, event management, or related field; experience will be considered in lieu of education
  • 3-5 years of experience in an operations/facility position in an arena, convention center, public facility or similar environment; with knowledge of setup/housekeeping and event coordination
  • Proficient computer skills in a Windows format
  • Experience with MS Word, Excel, Outlook, internet-based programs, and basic typing skills preferred
  • Ability to effectively be available via a company-provided cell phone, email, text
  • Ability to effectively lead a large team in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
  • Knowledge of OSHA and other local / state / federal safety standards / requirements
  • Forklift certification or ability to acquire within 90 days of employment
  • Possess superior interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills
  • Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, professionally in-person and in-writing
  • Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently and with a team
  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Ability to work an event-driven schedule, including shifts of 8 hours or more on varying days, nights, weekends and holidays
Strengthened by our Differences. United to Make a Difference

At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis ("protected class") including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.

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