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Event Planner Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Grainger Businesses

Event Planner

Lake Forest, IL · Hybrid

$67K - $112K/yr

Responsible for meeting/event planning and execution of small meetings and tradeshows, from the point of assignment through onsite program management, if necessary. * Responsible for managing the ...

New

Thornton Township

Event Planner

South Holland, IL · On-site

We are seeking a creative and detail-oriented Event Planner to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for coordinating all aspects of events, from initial concept to execution ...

Grainger Businesses

Event Planner

Lake Forest, IL · Hybrid

$67K - $112K/yr

Responsible for meeting/event planning and execution of small meetings and tradeshows, from the point of assignment through onsite program management, if necessary. * Responsible for managing the ...

Conagra Brands

Meeting & Event Planner

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$82K - $120K/yr

Reporting to the Manager, Meeting & Event Planning within our Customer Leadership Organization (Sales), you will lead the planning and execution of customer meetings, trade shows, industry ...

New

CONAGRA

Meeting & Event Planner

Chicago, IL · On-site

$82K - $120K/yr

Reporting to the Manager, Meeting & Event Planning within our Customer Leadership Organization (Sales), you will lead the planning and execution of customer meetings, trade shows, industry ...

New

In-The-Parks.org

Be Seen First

Now Hiring: Part-Time Event Planner & Sponsorship Coordinator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$500 - $2.0K/wk

Event Planner & Sponsorship Coordinator Location: Ravenswood Neighborhood, Chicago, IL Organization: Local Community Recreation Center Compensation $600 per week base pay 20% commission on event ...

Luxe Media, LLC

Event planning volunteer/Intern

Chicago, IL

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

The position of Event Planner will be responsible for coordinating activities of staff and convention personnel to make arrangements for group meetings and conventions. The Event Planners will be ...

Hasana, Inc.

Event planning volunteer/Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

The position of Event Planner will be responsible for coordinating activities of staff and convention personnel to make arrangements for group meetings and conventions. The Event Planners will be ...

Luxe Media, LLC

Event planning volunteer/Intern

Chicago, IL

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

The position of Event Planner will be responsible for coordinating activities of staff and convention personnel to make arrangements for group meetings and conventions. The Event Planners will be ...

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Event Planner information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$31

$45

How much do event planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for event planner in Chicago, IL is $31.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $36.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an event planner do?

An Event Planner is someone who coordinates all aspects of an event to meet the needs and budget of the hosting organization. Whether they work within the organization or are employed by an outside event planning company, they ensure all events achieve the desired image, message, and purpose. An Event Planner can involved in organizing parties, conferences, exhibits, concerts, or anything else that involves a large amount of people gathering for recreation or work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an event planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Event Planner, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in coordinating logistics, often supported by a degree in hospitality, marketing, or a related field. Familiarity with event management software, budgeting tools, and vendor management systems is commonly required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving abilities, and creativity help professionals stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering seamless, memorable events that meet client objectives and adapt to unexpected challenges.

What are some common challenges event planners face when coordinating large-scale events, and how can they be managed?

Event Planners often encounter challenges such as last-minute changes, vendor coordination, and managing tight budgets for large-scale events. Effective communication, detailed planning, and maintaining strong relationships with vendors are key to overcoming these issues. Utilizing event management software and creating contingency plans can help address unexpected problems, ensuring that the event runs smoothly. Staying organized and adaptable allows Event Planners to handle challenges professionally and deliver successful events.

What is the difference between Event Planner vs Event Coordinator?

AspectEvent PlannerEvent Coordinator
CredentialsOften requires certifications like CMP or CSEPMay not require formal certifications, but experience is valued
Work EnvironmentWorks on planning and designing events from start to finishFocuses on executing and managing event details on the event day
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across corporate, social, and nonprofit sectorsCommonly employed in similar sectors, often as a supporting role

While both roles are essential in event management, the Event Planner primarily handles the overall planning and design of events, including budgeting and vendor coordination. The Event Coordinator focuses on executing the event plan, managing logistics, and ensuring everything runs smoothly on the event day. Both roles require strong organizational skills, but the Event Planner typically has a broader scope and strategic responsibilities.

How do you become an event planner?

To become an event planner, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in customer service, hospitality, or related fields. Many pursue a bachelor's degree in hospitality management, marketing, or a related area, and developing skills in organization, communication, and time management is essential. Certification programs are also available to enhance credibility and knowledge in event planning.

Is being an event planner a good career?

Event planning is a dynamic career that involves coordinating logistics, managing budgets, and working with clients to organize events such as weddings, conferences, and parties. Success in this field often requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle stressful situations, with many professionals working flexible hours including evenings and weekends.

What is the work of an event planner?

An event planner coordinates and manages all aspects of planning events such as weddings, conferences, and parties. They handle tasks including venue selection, budgeting, vendor coordination, and timeline management to ensure the event runs smoothly. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential for success in this role.
More about Event Planner jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Event Planner jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Event Planner jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Event Planner jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Event Planner jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Event Planner jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Event Planner jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Event Planner jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Event Planner job openings:

Event Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Event Planner job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $65,245 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Event Planner

Lake Forest, IL • Hybrid

Grainger Businesses
Office Administration and Facilities Support Services • 10K+ employees

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 182 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 366 rated logistics

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Grainger Businessesexternal

$67K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

 

Work Location Type: Hybrid  

Req Number  333925

About Grainger

W.W. Grainger, Inc. is a leading broad line distributor with operations primarily in North America and Japan. At Grainger, We Keep the World Working® by serving more than 4.6 million customers worldwide with maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) products and value-added solutions delivered through innovative technology and deep customer expertise. Known for its commitment to service and purpose-driven culture, the Company reported 2025 revenue of $17.9 billion. For more information, visit www.grainger.com.  

Compensation

The anticipated base pay compensation range for this position is $67,300.00 – $112,200.00. This role is eligible for an incentive target of up to 5 % or $ , based on the achievement of individual and company performance objectives in accordance with the current terms of the incentive program which are subject to change.

Rewards and Benefits

With benefits starting on day one, our programs provide choice and flexibility to meet team members' individual needs, including:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans with coverage starting on day one of employment and 6 free sessions each year with a licensed therapist to support your emotional wellbeing.
  • 18 paid time off (PTO) days annually for full-time employees (accrual prorated based on employment start date) and 6 company holidays per year.
  • 6% company contribution to a 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan each pay period, no employee contribution required.
  • Employee discounts, tuition reimbursement, student loan refinancing and free access to financial counseling, education, and tools.
  • Maternity support programs, nursing benefits, and up to 14 weeks paid leave for birth parents and up to 4 weeks paid leave for non-birth parents.

For additional information and details regarding Grainger’s benefits, please click on the link below:

https://experience100.ehr.com/grainger/Home/Tools-Resources/Key-Resources/New-Hire

Grainger Benefits

The pay range provided above is not a guarantee of compensation.  The range reflects the potential base pay for this role at the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual base pay compensation will depend, in part, on factors such as geographic work location and relevant experience and skills.   

The anticipated compensation range described above is subject to change and the compensation ultimately paid may be higher or lower than the range described above. 

Grainger reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion at any time, consistent with applicable law.

Position Details
Assists and supports Senior Meeting Planners and Director on large, complex event logistics. Support and/or plan and execute events that are committed to through the SSGP (Supplier Strategic Growth Program), small meetings/events that come through the SMM process (Strategic Meeting Management), and tradeshows. Serve as expert in logistics management and in managing various areas of execution of meetings, events and tradeshows.


You Will
  • Responsible for meeting/event planning and execution of small meetings and tradeshows, from the point of assignment through onsite program management, if necessary.
  • Responsible for managing the event’s budget and keeping stakeholders informed throughout the planning and execution phases.
  • Provides on-site program assistance if needed; oversee all arranged details of program (i.e. attend pre-con, advance all functions, verify room set-ups, review banquet checks/master bill, handle VIP needs, assist in handing out documents).
  • Monitors and review supplier billing and ensure timely payment and reconciliation.
  • Supports Senior Meeting planners on large, strategic events by organizing all major event logistics including, but not limited to, registration, air travel, room block management, transportation, food/beverage, offsite events, event communications, onsite event support, reporting, invoice review and reconciliation and other event related projects.
  • Responsible for managing internal and external partnerships (i.e. suppliers) and provides a consistent, consultative approach to various planning tasks
  • Partners with suppliers to negotiate, collaborating on solutions and creating new options to enhance attendee experience.
  • Creates communications to attendees, suppliers and internal parties.
You Have
  • Bachelor's Degree in a related field such as hospitality/tourism, communications, or event management.
  • 3+ years corporate or private event planning experience.
  • Experience with event planning systems and platforms.
  • Experience working independently with limited supervision.
  • Experience managing projects from inception to completion with keen attention to details and timelines.

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible work environment that includes both providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities during the application and hiring process as well as throughout the course of one’s employment, should you need a reasonable accommodation during the application and selection process, including, but not limited to use of our website, any part of the application, interview or hiring process, please advise us so that we can provide appropriate assistance.

#LI-YF1 

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About Grainger

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Grainger is a leading broad line distributor with operations primarily in North America, Japan and the United Kingdom. We achieve our purpose, We Keep the World Working®, by serving more than 4.5 million customers with a wide range of products that keep their operations running and their people safe. Grainger also delivers services and solutions, such as technical support and inventory management, to save customers time and money. We're looking for passionate people who can move our company forward. As one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For, we have a welcoming workplace where you can build a career for yourself while fulfilling our purpose to keep the world working. We embrace new ways of thinking and recognize everyone is an individual. Find your way with Grainger today.

Industry

Office administration and facilities support services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lake Forest, IL, US

Year founded

1927

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