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Event Planning Intern Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Events Intern

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $15.50/hr

Events Intern Gain hands-on event experience while supporting animals in need. The Animal Rescue ... This unpaid internship provides hands-on experience in nonprofit event planning, fundraising ...

Clinical Pharmacist Intern

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

... planning and organizing clinical services (vaccination clinics, health screenings) * Assist in ... This includes a normal schedule of working hours, but also includes being available in the event of ...

Social Media Intern

Altoona, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

... events and behind-the-scenes experiences Free training opportunities Potential for future paid ... Every workout, every day follows a strategic 8-week training cycle that is meticulously planned and ...

Intern (Unpaid)

Independence, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Assisting with program management, facility operations, and event planning. * Finance & Human Resources: Learning the internal operations that keep our municipality running. What We Value We are ...

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Event Planning Intern information

See Iowa salary details

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How much do event planning intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for event planning intern in Iowa is $16.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a demand for event planning interns?

Demand for event planning interns is generally steady, especially during peak seasons such as holidays and wedding seasons. Many organizations seek interns to assist with event coordination, logistics, and client communication, making it a viable entry-level opportunity for those developing skills in project management and vendor relations.

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

To secure an event planning intern position with no experience, focus on developing organizational and communication skills, and consider volunteering or assisting with events to build relevant experience. Highlight any related coursework, extracurricular activities, or transferable skills in your application, and demonstrate enthusiasm for the field. Some employers may also value certifications like event planning courses or project management training.

What is the difference between Event Planning Intern vs Event Coordinator?

AspectEvent Planning InternEvent Coordinator
CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in hospitality, event management, or related fieldsOften requires experience in event planning, sometimes certifications like CMP or CSEP
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, assisting with tasks under supervisionFull-time role managing events independently or with a team
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in hospitality, nonprofit, corporate sectors for entry-level rolesUsed across industries for professional event management

The main difference is that an Event Planning Intern is an entry-level position focused on learning and assisting, while an Event Coordinator is a more experienced role responsible for planning and executing events independently.

How to gain experience as an event planning intern?

To gain experience as an event planning intern, seek internships or volunteer opportunities that allow you to assist with event coordination, logistics, and vendor communication. Developing skills in organization, communication, and using tools like event management software can enhance your qualifications and prepare you for a full-time role.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an event planning intern expect during their internship?

As an Event Planning Intern, you can expect to support a variety of projects such as coordinating event logistics, assisting with vendor communications, managing guest lists, and helping with event setup and teardown. Interns often work closely with event coordinators and other team members, gaining hands-on experience in both the planning and execution phases. The role provides opportunities to develop organizational and communication skills, and interns may also be given ownership of smaller tasks or projects to help build confidence and professional experience.

What does an event planning intern do?

An Event Planning Intern assists event coordinators and managers in organizing, preparing, and executing various events such as conferences, weddings, corporate meetings, and parties. Their responsibilities often include researching venues, contacting vendors, helping with event promotion, coordinating logistics, and providing on-site support during events. This role offers hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn about project management, budgeting, and client relations in the event industry.

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

To thrive as an Event Planning Intern, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a foundational understanding of event coordination, often backed by coursework in hospitality or communications. Familiarity with event management software, Microsoft Office Suite, and scheduling tools is highly beneficial. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you manage logistics and adapt to changing circumstances. These skills are crucial for executing successful events and supporting senior planners in a fast-paced environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Event Planning jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Event Planning jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Event Planning Intern jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Event Planning Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Event Planning Intern job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,924 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Events Intern

Animal Rescue League Of Iowa

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$12.75 - $15.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago


Animal Rescue League of Iowa rating

3.3

Company rating: 3.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

755th of 761 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Events Intern

Gain hands-on event experience while supporting animals in need.

The Animal Rescue League of Iowa is seeking an enthusiastic and organized Events Intern to support our Events team. This unpaid internship provides hands-on experience in nonprofit event planning, fundraising, marketing, community engagement, and donor support while contributing to events that raise awareness and critical support for animals in our care.

This is a great opportunity for someone interested in events, nonprofit work, fundraising, marketing, communications, hospitality, or community engagement who wants to build professional skills in a mission-driven environment.

Schedule
  • Unpaid internship
  • Flexible schedule based on availability and event needs
  • Evening and weekend availability required for some events
  • Internships are available year-round
  • Work may take place at ARL locations and occasionally off-site at event venues
About the Animal Rescue League of Iowa

The Animal Rescue League of Iowa is Iowa’s largest nonprofit animal welfare organization, helping animals and the people who love them through sheltering, adoption, veterinary care, animal services, community programs, and pet support resources. Across multiple locations and programs in the Des Moines metro, the ARL works every day to provide compassionate care, practical support, and trusted resources for animals and families in our community.

What You’ll Do
  • Support the planning, preparation, and execution of ARL events.
  • Assist with event logistics, timelines, supplies, setup, and tear-down.
  • Help recruit donations for auctions, raffles, and event needs.
  • Assist with event pages, ticketing software, registrations, and attendee information.
  • Create or support content for social media, the ARL website, and event promotion.
  • Help develop marketing and social media plans to encourage community participation.
  • Assist with scheduling rentals, birthday parties, and other event-related activities.
  • Communicate with local businesses, sponsors, donors, and community partners.
  • Learn creative fundraising strategies that support nonprofit events and animal welfare.
What We’re Looking For
  • Interest in event planning, fundraising, marketing, nonprofit work, or community engagement.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Creativity, flexibility, and willingness to help with a variety of projects.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners.
  • Comfort working in a fast-paced environment where priorities may shift.
  • Dependable, professional, and open to learning.
  • Availability for some evenings and weekends based on event needs.
Internship Experience

This internship is designed as an opportunity for professional development, learning, and skill building. Events Interns gain exposure to nonprofit event planning, fundraising, marketing, donor engagement, community partnerships, and the behind-the-scenes work that helps make mission-driven events successful.

This is an unpaid internship and should not be viewed as paid employment.

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

This internship may involve sitting, standing, walking, event setup and tear-down, moving supplies, and supporting events in both indoor and outdoor settings. Work may take place at ARL locations and off-site event venues.

The role may involve exposure to animals, animal dander, moderate noise, outdoor weather conditions, and busy event environments while following established safety procedures.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to participate in the internship experience.

Why Join the ARL?

As an Events Intern, you will help support events that raise awareness and critical resources for animals in need. Your work will contribute to meaningful community experiences while helping fund programs and services that support animals and the people who love them.

If you are enthusiastic, organized, and excited to gain hands-on event experience in a mission-driven nonprofit environment, we would love to have you join our team.

The Animal Rescue League of Iowa is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state law. Applicants are encouraged to discuss potential accommodations as needed.


What Animal Rescue League of Iowa employees say

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