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Event Operations Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Event Operations information

See Iowa salary details

$19.7K

$56.4K

$85.9K

How much do event operations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 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 does an event operations do?

An event operations professional manages the planning, coordination, and execution of events to ensure they run smoothly. This role involves tasks such as logistics management, vendor coordination, setup and breakdown, and troubleshooting on-site issues, often requiring strong organizational and communication skills. They may also use tools like event management software and work flexible hours depending on the event schedule.

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:

Infographic showing various Event Operations job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,411 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

RAGBRAI Ride Operations

Gannett Co., Inc.

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Gannett rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 76 rated media


Job description

|Current USA TODAY Co. Employees- Please ensure you are using our abbreviated process on the internal Careers site by logging into Dayforce through MyApps|
USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a diversified media company with expansive reach at the national and local level dedicated to empowering and enriching communities. We seek to inspire, inform, and connect audiences as a sustainable, growth focused media and digital marketing solutions company. Through our trusted brands, including the USA TODAY NETWORK, comprised of the national publication, USA TODAY, and local media organizations, including our network of local properties, in the United States, and Newsquest, a wholly-owned subsidiary operating in the United Kingdom, we provide essential journalism, local content, and digital experiences to audiences and businesses. We deliver high-quality, trusted content with a commitment to balanced, unbiased journalism, where and when consumers want to engage. Our digital marketing solutions brand, LocaliQ, supports small and medium-sized businesses with innovative digital marketing products and solutions. USA TODAY Co. open roles are featured on various external job boards. When applying to a position at USA TODAY Co., you should be completing an application on USA TODAY Co. Careers via Dayforce. Job postings directing you to complete an application on other external sites may not be valid. If you are a California resident, you acknowledge that by applying for a job with us, this California Job Applicant Privacy Notice will apply to our collection, use, and disclosure of your personal information. To connect with us, visit www.usatodayco.com
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
USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a proud equal opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a diverse workforce. As such, we will consider all qualified applicants for employment and do not discriminate in connection with employment decisions on the basis of an applicant or employee's race, color, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, citizenship status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, marital status, personal appearance (including height and weight), sexual orientation, family responsibilities, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy status (including childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), education, genetic characteristics or information, political affiliation, military or veteran status or other classifications protected by applicable federal, state and local laws in the jurisdictions where USA TODAY Co. employs employees. In addition, USA TODAY Co., Inc. will provide applicants who require a reasonable accommodation, as a result of an applicant's disability or religion, to complete this employment application and/or any other process in connection with an individuals' application for employment with USA TODAY Co., Inc. Applicants who require such accommodation should contact USA TODAY Co., Inc.'s Recruitment Department at Recruit@usatodayco.com. Applicants must be authorized to work in the applicable location. Applications from outside these regions will be removed from our system after submission.

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