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Event Operations Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

gannett

RAGBRAI Ride Operations

Des Moines, IA · Remote

$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 ...

Holmes Murphy

Sr. Event Manager

Waukee, IA · On-site

Lead onsite event operations and troubleshoot issues as they arise. * Identify new venues, destinations, and creative attendee experiences. * Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure ...

Holmes Murphy

Sr. Event Manager

Waukee, IA · On-site

Lead onsite event operations and troubleshoot issues as they arise. * Identify new venues, destinations, and creative attendee experiences. * Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure ...

Holmes Murphy

Sr. Event Manager

Waukee, IA

Lead onsite event operations and troubleshoot issues as they arise. * Identify new venues, destinations, and creative attendee experiences. * Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure ...

HMA Group Holdings, LLC

Sr. Event Manager

Waukee, IA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Lead onsite event operations and troubleshoot issues as they arise. * Identify new venues, destinations, and creative attendee experiences. * Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure ...

Yourcaptive

Sr. Event Manager

Waukee, IA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Lead onsite event operations and troubleshoot issues as they arise.* Identify new venues, destinations, and creative attendee experiences.* Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure successful ...

Holmes Murphy Partnership

Sr. Event Manager

Waukee, IA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Lead onsite event operations and troubleshoot issues as they arise.* Identify new venues, destinations, and creative attendee experiences.* Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure successful ...

Gannett Co., Inc.

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 ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsEvent Operations JobsEvent Operations Jobs in Iowa

Event Operations information

See Iowa salary details

$19.7K

$56.4K

$85.9K

How much do event operations jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an event operations professional?

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 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 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 event operations jobs?

Event operations jobs involve planning, coordinating, and managing the logistics of events such as conferences, concerts, or festivals. Roles may include tasks like venue setup, vendor coordination, scheduling, and ensuring smooth execution, often requiring organizational skills and familiarity with event management tools. These jobs can vary in schedule and may require on-site presence during events.

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:

Event Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Event Operations job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,411 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

RAGBRAI Ride Operations

Des Moines, IA • Remote

gannett
Media and Telecom • 10K+ employees
Learn more about gannettexternal

$45K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Gannett rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 78 rated media

Job description

RAGBRAI is the world’s largest and longest running annual bicycle ride in the world. Each year, we welcome over 20,000 riders and participants from all 50 states and more than 20 countries. RAGBRAI is focused on showcasing small town Iowa and the communities that have graciously hosted us for more than 52 years.

Role Summary:

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 that emphasizes the participant's experience. This position will assist towns in their preparations by identifying and assigning Campground spaces, overseeing a crew of 70+ people and participating in advance travel meetings. 

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Plan, produce, and execute operational components for assigned events from contract execution through post-event closeout.
  • Partake in advance travel meetings to assist towns in their preparations, including identifying and assigning campground spaces, working with Public Works departments and shower vendors to identify best locations and placing various RAGBRAI accommodations.
  • Oversee the Charter program and serve as the primary liaison between Charters, Overnight Towns, and RAGBRAI.
  • Manage the RAGBRAI Crew, a group of 70+ individuals that assist with operations during the ride, which includes assigning positions, interviewing and hiring candidates, communicating pre-event logistics, and processing all payments.
  • Reserve all rental vehicles for the week of RAGBRAI and the Route Inspection in June.
  • Collect and track necessary documentation from host communities to process financial payments as part of the RAGBRAI Give Back program.
  • Actively work alongside RAGBRAI Staff to project, track and adhere to annual budget(s)
  • Assist RAGBRAI Creative Director in creation and implementation of Overnight Town maps using the Google MYMAPS software.
  • Support RAGBRAI staff in planning and execution of various annual events, including the Route Annuoncement Party, Overnight & Pass-Through Town Meeting, Route Inspection, and Fall Ride. 
  • During the week of RAGBRAI, cmmand the RAGBRAI Information Tent and provide customer service to all participants.
  • Other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications: 

  • Des Moines, IA based- requires in-office participation
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Event Management, Sports & Recreation Management or similar field preferred
  • 1-3+ years of experience in Event Operations or a similar field.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with an emphasis towards participant experience
  • Effective organization and time management skills
  • Strong leadership abilities and initiative
  • Quick decision-making and problem-solving abilities
  • Reliant, self-paced worker that can proactively strategize on future responsibilities
  • Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment
  • Passionate and enthusiastic for the event and / or cycling industry

#LI-REMOTE
#LOCALiQ
#LI-LL

The annualized base salary for this role will range between $45,000, and $50,000. Base compensation is reflective of many factors, including, but not limited to, the market in which one lives/works, individual education level, skills, certifications and experience. Note: variable compensation is not reflected in these figures and based on the role, may be applicable

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