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Event Planning Assistant Jobs in Sycamore, IL (NOW HIRING)

AEG

Event Presentation Assistant

Rockford, IL · On-site

$15/hr

The Rockford IceHogs are looking for an enthusiastic person to assist the Event Presentation Manager in creating the best possible experience for our fans. The duties of this position extend from ...

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Event Planning Assistant information

See Sycamore, IL salary details

$10

$19

$28

How much do event planning assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for event planning assistant in Sycamore, IL is $19.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $22.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an event planning assistant do?

An Event Planning Assistant supports event planners and coordinators in organizing and executing events, such as conferences, weddings, and corporate meetings. Their responsibilities may include managing guest lists, coordinating with vendors, assisting with event setup and teardown, and handling administrative tasks like scheduling and correspondence. They play a vital role in ensuring events run smoothly by handling logistics and providing on-site support. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and flexibility are important qualities for this position. Event Planning Assistants often gain hands-on experience in the industry, which can lead to more advanced event management roles.

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

To thrive as an Event Planning Assistant, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and a background in hospitality, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with event management software, Microsoft Office Suite, and basic budgeting tools is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to multitask under pressure will set you apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring events run smoothly, client expectations are met, and logistical challenges are managed efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by event planning assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Event Planning Assistants often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, last-minute changes, and coordination with multiple vendors and stakeholders. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and adaptability are crucial for managing these challenges. Proactively creating detailed checklists, maintaining open lines of communication with the team, and being prepared with backup plans can help ensure events run smoothly, even when unexpected issues arise.

How to become an event planning assistant?

To become an event planning assistant, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong organizational and communication skills, and experience with event coordination or customer service. Gaining familiarity with event management software and obtaining certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) can enhance prospects. Entry-level roles often require the ability to work flexible hours and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

How to get a job in event planning with no experience?

Entry-level event planning assistants often start by gaining relevant skills such as organization, communication, and time management through volunteering, internships, or coursework. Building a portfolio of small events or assisting experienced planners can also help demonstrate capability to employers, even without formal experience.

What cities near Sycamore, IL are hiring for Event Planning Assistant jobs?

Cities near Sycamore, IL with the most Event Planning Assistant job openings:

Event Planning Assistant jobs near you

Assistant Director of Conference Planning

Luggage Forward

Saint Charles, IL • On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Assistant Director of Conference Planning

Q Center St Charles, IL

Assistant Director of Conference Planning

Q Center St Charles, IL 10 hours ago See who Q Center has hired for this role

Save Q Center is looking for an Assistant Director of Conference Planning to join our team! This position does require a 45 hour work week. The salary range for this position is $85,000 - $100,000

Position Summary

The Assistant Director of Conference Planning supports the Director of Conference Planning by providing leadership and operational oversight for assigned conference programs and daily departmental functions. This role focuses on execution excellence, client satisfaction, cross-department coordination, and team support. The Assistant Director plays a critical role in ensuring accurate event planning, seamless on-site execution, and consistent delivery of Q Center service standards.

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field required
  • Minimum six (6) years of progressive hospitality management experience within a full-service hotel, resort, or comparable hospitality environment
  • Director-level experience required
  • Minimum five (5) years of supervisory or leadership experience required, previous director-level experience preferred
  • Proficiency with event planning systems, software, and diagramming tools
  • Proven track record of managing complex events, budgets, and departmental teams

Physical requirements:

  • Regular movement throughout the property to oversee operational areas
  • Ability to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally and up to 10 pounds frequently
  • Extended hours may be required based on business demands

Knowledge, Skills & Competencies:

  • Strong executive presence with the ability to influence across all levels of the organization
  • Outstanding verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong listening, problem solving, and conflict resolution abilities
  • Ability to manage multiple, complex events simultaneously
  • Strategic thinking with operational and financial insight
  • Strong client-service orientation and commitment to exceptional guest experiences
  • High level of professionalism, integrity, and accountability

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategic Partnership

  • Align objectives with operational goals and Q Center's mission and vision
  • Provide leadership insight on client service trends, operational opportunities, and service improvements
  • Communicate organizational directives, operational priorities, and service standards
  • Represent Q Center professionally with clients, guests, and vendors

Conference Planning Operations & Compliance

  • Provide strategic oversight of daily Conference planning operations, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, operational standards, and client expectations
  • Ensure departmental procedures, workflows, and documentation are compliance with internal SOPs, company policies, and regulatory requirements. including the creation, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of SOPs for new or updated procedures.
  • Monitor scheduling, space utilization, and resource allocation to maximize efficiency and support seamless event delivery
  • Maintain active onsite presence to ensure seamless program execution and client satisfaction
  • Consistently exceed service standards to strengthen client relationships, elevate event outcomes, and ensure business and long-term loyalty
  • Lead Q Center key accounts, developing detailed event specifications, diagrams, timeliness, and addendums for high level, complex programs
  • Create and distribute accurate Banquet Event Orders, group resumes, and floor plans
  • Maintain complete and accurate event files in Delphi, Opera and diagramming systems
  • Track and communicate changes in real time and update documentation in accordance with established Standard Operating Procedures deadlines
  • Present assigned programs at operational meetings
  • Ensure compliance with purchase orders processes and financial documentation standards

Profitability & Performance Optimization

  • Develop strategies to improve operational efficiency and service delivery within Conference Planning
  • Support initiatives that improve client satisfaction, retention, and repeat business
  • Assist with post-event billing and invoice accuracy
  • Partner with department leaders to ensure Conference Planning operations contribute positively to overall property performance and profitability

Operational Excellence & Process Improvement

  • Review, analyze, and improve departmental procedures to enhance efficiency and client satisfaction
  • Implement tools and workflows to streamline conference planning operations
  • Coordinate across departments to ensure smooth execution
  • Monitor key performance indicators and event metrics to drive continuous improvement

Leadership & Talent Development

  • Lead, develop, and manage Conference Planning managers and coordinator
  • Recruit, interview, and hire staff in accordance with company standards
  • Coordinate and assist with onboarding and training of Conference Planning managers and coordinator
  • Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching and mentorship
  • Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and service excellence

Vendor & Contract Management

  • Monitor third-party performance and contractual obligations
  • Ensure vendor services support operational needs while maintaining fiscal responsibility

Other Duties as Assigned

  • Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support Q Center's operational and strategic objectives

Work Environment This position operates within a professional hospitality environment and requires regular interaction with executive leadership, department heads, associates, clients, vendors, and external partners. The Assistant Director of Conference Planning must maintain a visible presence throughout the property and actively engage in operational oversight, client interactions, and event execution to ensure seamless program delivery and exceptional service standards.

Seniority level

Director

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Business Development and Sales

Industries

Hospitality

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