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Event Planning Manager Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Supply Management Planner

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Performs supply management planning activities within a defined framework * Communicates daily with ... Support stakeholder engagement by arranging meetings, actions, and events * Participate in training ...

Employee Experience Coordinator

Sumner, IA · On-site

$19.75 - $25.75/hr

Event Planning and Employee Engagement * Plan, coordinate, and execute a variety of internal events ... Track completion of training and follow up with employees, supervisors, and managers as needed.

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 ...

Guide platform architecture, infrastructure planning, deployment strategies, upgrades, performance ... impact commercial events * 10+ years of experience in Technical Account Management, Solution ...

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Showing results 1-20

Event Planning Manager information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$20.2K

$74.2K

$140K

How much do event planning manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for event planning manager in Waterloo, IA is $74,218.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,200.00 and $88,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an event planning manager do?

An Event Planning Manager is responsible for organizing and coordinating all aspects of events, such as conferences, weddings, corporate meetings, and parties. They work with clients to understand their vision, manage budgets, select venues, coordinate vendors, and oversee logistics before and during the event. Their goal is to ensure that events run smoothly and meet the client's expectations, often handling unexpected issues as they arise. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an event planning manager?

To thrive as an Event Planning Manager, you need strong organizational abilities, project management experience, and a background in hospitality or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with event management software like Cvent or Social Tables, budgeting tools, and CRM systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills help you build strong client relationships and manage unexpected challenges. These competencies ensure seamless event execution, client satisfaction, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations effectively.

What are some typical challenges an event planning manager faces when coordinating large-scale events?

Event Planning Managers often encounter challenges such as managing tight timelines, coordinating multiple vendors, and adapting to last-minute changes or unforeseen circumstances. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential, as you'll regularly collaborate with clients, suppliers, and internal teams to keep everyone aligned. Additionally, balancing client expectations with budget constraints is a common aspect of the role, requiring creative problem-solving and negotiation skills to deliver a successful event.

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

AspectEvent Planning ManagerEvent Coordinator
CredentialsOften requires experience in event management, certifications like CMP or CSEP beneficialTypically requires basic event planning experience, certifications are optional
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple events, manages teams, works with vendors and clientsAssists in executing event details, works closely with the planning team
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in corporate, nonprofit, and hospitality sectors for leadership rolesCommon in event planning companies, hotels, and venues for support roles

The main difference is that an Event Planning Manager oversees the entire event planning process, manages teams, and handles higher-level responsibilities, while an Event Coordinator focuses on executing specific event tasks and supporting the planning process. Both roles require strong organizational skills, but the manager position involves more strategic oversight.

Is an event planning manager a good career?

An event planning manager oversees the organization and execution of events, requiring strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. The role can be rewarding with opportunities for creativity and leadership, but it often involves long hours, high stress, and working on weekends or evenings. Job prospects depend on industry demand and experience levels, with certifications like CMP enhancing career advancement.

What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Event Planning Manager jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Event Planning Manager job openings:

Title Event Setup Houseman | Part-Time | Waterloo Convention Center

Waterloo, IA

Iowa Events Center
Real Estate • 11 - 50 employees

$14 - $16/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Event Setup Houseman | Part-Time | Waterloo Convention Center
Location US-IA-Waterloo
Job Post Information* : Posted Date 2 months ago(6/23/2026 5:10 PM)
Job ID 2026-32661
Location Name Waterloo Convention Center
Category Operations
Type Regular Part-Time
Location : Location US-IA-Waterloo
Job Post Information* : External Company Name Oak View Group
Job Post Information* : External Company URL https://www.oakviewgroup.com/
Location : Postal Code 50701
Location : Address 200 W. 4th St.
Job Post Information* : Post End Date 9/25/2026
Oak View Group

Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, with a platform spanning venue development and end-to-end capabilities across venue management, hospitality, and sponsorship sales. Founded in 2015, the company serves a collection of seven world-class owned venues and a client roster of the most iconic arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions, spanning four continents. 

Position Summary

Under direct supervision from an Event Services Supervisor, Event Setup Housemen perform event setup and teardown, housekeeping, and light maintenance tasks as assigned. 

This role pays an hourly rate of $14.00-$16.00

Benefits for Part-Time roles: 401(k) Savings Plan, 401(k) matching.

This position will remain open until September 25, 2026.

About the Venue

The Waterloo Convention Center opened as the Conway Civic Center in the 1970s. A hotel and parking ramp were connected to the facility via skywalk in the 1980's. In 1987 the center was rededicated and named in honor of Waterloo's own 5 Sullivan Brothers. In 2021, as a part of a multi-million dollar transformation to meet the needs of today's event planner, the center was renamed the Waterloo Convention Center, reflecting pride in the community and the transformation of the center.

Responsibilities
  • Sets up tables, chairs, staging, dance floors, and other equipment according to the room diagrams and event resumes
  • Tears down equipment and supplies after events are over
  • Maintains cleanliness in the event spaces, including hallways and other common areas
  • Keeps service corridors and storage areas clean, organized, and unobstructed
  • Empties trash and operates various types of cleaning equipment
  • Reads and understands room diagrams and event resumes in order to set event spaces accordingly
  • Interacts with other staff and event planners, and responds quickly to needs and requests
  • Other duties as assigned by management
Qualifications
  • Must have high school diploma or equivalent GED
  • Must be able to read and understand room diagrams and event resumes
  • Must be available to work flexible hours and days including early morning, days, evenings, overnight, weekends and holidays
  • Must be able to stand and walk for long periods of time and lift heavy objects
  • Previous experience with event changovers/setup a plus
Strengthened by our Differences. United to Make a Difference

At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis ("protected class") including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.

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