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Gala Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Helix School

Development Manager

San Rafael, CA

$200K/yr

Be an active member of the Gala Committee, managing pledges, invitations, and overseeing the Gala marketing projects with the Marketing & Communications Manager * Form and lead the Paths to ...

The Helix School

Development Manager

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Be an active member of the Gala Committee, managing pledges, invitations, and overseeing the Gala marketing projects with the Marketing & Communications Manager * Form and lead the Paths to ...

The Helix School

Development Manager

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$85K/yr

Be an active member of the Gala Committee, managing pledges, invitations, and overseeing the Gala marketing projects with the Marketing & Communications Manager * Form and lead the Paths to ...

WOWK-TV

PPR Sports Videographer

San Diego, CA

$18/hr

PPR Sports Videographer Temporary/Seasonal position from the beginning of the HS Football season to Silver Pigskin Gala (mid-August to December) Job Info: The Prep Pigskin Report has become a ...

Tribune Media

PPR Sports Videographer

San Diego, CA

$18/hr

PPR Sports Videographer Temporary/Seasonal position from the beginning of the HS Football season to Silver Pigskin Gala (mid-August to December) Job Info: The Prep Pigskin Report has become a ...

WOWK-TV

Content Creator - Red Jacket

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$17.75/hr

You must be available every Friday night from mid-August to the Silver Pigskin Gala in December. Our PPR Red Jacket Content Creators will be laser-focused on telling stories that matter most to ...

Tribune Media

Content Creator - Red Jacket

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$17.75/hr

You must be available every Friday night from mid-August to the Silver Pigskin Gala in December. Our PPR Red Jacket Content Creators will be laser-focused on telling stories that matter most to ...

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Gala information

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How much do gala jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for gala in California is $20.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a gala?

Gala jobs typically refer to roles involved in the planning, coordination, and execution of gala events, which are formal social gatherings or fundraising events. These positions can include event coordinators, planners, fundraising managers, decorators, and catering staff. Individuals in these roles are responsible for managing logistics, overseeing event themes, securing venues, arranging entertainment, and ensuring the event runs smoothly. Gala job requirements vary but often include strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills, as well as experience in event management or hospitality.

What are some common challenges faced by event coordinators working on galas, and how can they be managed effectively?

Event coordinators managing galas often encounter challenges such as tight timelines, balancing multiple vendor relationships, and ensuring seamless guest experiences. These events typically involve high-profile guests and complex logistics, requiring strong organizational and communication skills. Proactively creating detailed timelines, maintaining clear channels of communication with all stakeholders, and having contingency plans in place can help manage these challenges effectively. Collaboration with a dedicated team and thorough pre-event walkthroughs also contribute to a successful gala execution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a gala event coordinator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Gala Event Coordinator, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in event planning, often supported by a degree in hospitality or related fields. Familiarity with event management software, budgeting tools, and vendor management systems is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and leadership help ensure smooth coordination among teams and stakeholders. These skills are crucial for executing successful, memorable events that meet client goals and expectations.

What is the difference between Gala vs Event Coordinator?

AspectGalaEvent Coordinator
Primary RoleOrganizing large-scale, formal events like galas and fundraisersPlanning and executing various types of events, including corporate, social, and community events
CredentialsOften requires event planning experience, sometimes certifications like CMPSimilar credentials; experience and certifications like CMP are common
Work EnvironmentHigh-profile venues, formal settings, often during evening hoursVaried settings, flexible hours, including daytime and evenings
Industry UsageUsed mainly in nonprofit, hospitality, and event planning sectors for large eventsWidely used across corporate, nonprofit, and social event planning

While both roles involve event planning, a Gala typically refers to organizing large, formal, and often fundraising events, whereas an Event Coordinator handles a broader range of events with varied formats and sizes. The Gala role is more specialized in high-profile, formal occasions, often requiring specific experience and credentials.

What are popular job titles related to Gala jobs in California?

For Gala jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Gala jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Gala jobs in California are:

Gala jobs near you
Infographic showing various Gala job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,791 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Gala Manager

Boys and Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley

San Jose, CA • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley is seeking an experienced, relationship-driven Gala Manager to lead the strategy, planning, execution, and growth of our signature annual fundraising event - the Youth of the Year Gala.
This role goes beyond hosting an exceptional event; it focuses on using the Youth of the Year Gala as a powerful fundraising and relationship-building strategy. The Gala Manager will oversee every aspect of the Gala, including volunteer leadership, sponsorship development, guest experience, event production, donor stewardship, and post-event engagement to strengthen lifelong relationships and convert event supporters into year-round organizational supporters.
Working closely with the Resource Development team, executive leadership, board members, and volunteer committees, this role will recruit influential community leaders, build corporate and philanthropic partnerships, and develop strategies that grow revenue, deepen donor engagement, and increase the organization's visibility in Silicon Valley.
Responsibilities
Gala Strategy & Production
  • Lead the planning, execution, and continuous improvement of BGCSV's signature Gala, ensuring an exceptional experience for sponsors, donors, volunteers, and guests.
  • Develop and manage the annual Gala work plan, production timeline, budget, and revenue goals.
  • Oversee all event logistics, including venue management, production, program flow, auction, registration, volunteer coordination, and guest experience.
  • Evaluate event performance and implement strategies that improve fundraising results, guest satisfaction, and operational efficiency.

Revenue Generation
  • Develop and execute sponsorship strategies that grow partnerships and event revenue.
  • Build and maintain a robust pipeline of prospective sponsors and event supporters.
  • Collaborate with Resource Development staff, executive leadership, and board members to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward sponsors and major donors.
  • Recruit and engage C-suite executives and corporate leaders to increase sponsorship, volunteer leadership, and long-term organizational support.

Volunteer Leadership
  • Recruit, develop, and manage executive volunteer leadership, committee members, and event volunteers.
  • Support committee members in opening doors to new sponsors, donors, and community leaders.
  • Foster meaningful volunteer engagement that extends beyond the Gala.

Donor Engagement & Stewardship
  • Design intentional donor journeys before, during, and after the Gala that strengthen relationships with attendees.
  • Develop and execute strategies to convert Gala sponsors, guests, and donors into year-round supporters through intentional cultivation, stewardship, and meaningful post-event engagement.
  • Partner closely with the Director of Philanthropy and the Resource Development team to ensure timely follow-up, coordinated donor moves management, and long-term relationship building following the Gala.
  • Collaborate with marketing to develop stewardship communications and compelling impact stories that keep sponsors and donors connected throughout the year.

Relationship Management
  • Cultivate relationships with corporate executives, philanthropists, community leaders, and volunteers to expand the organization's network of supporters.
  • Represent Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley at community events, donor meetings, networking opportunities, and stewardship activities.

Financial Management
  • Monitor event budgets, expenses, and revenue performance to ensure financial goals are achieved.
  • Conduct ROI analysis across sponsorships, auction, fund-a-need, guest experience, and event components, implementing improvements that maximize fundraising outcomes.
  • Ensure compliance with organizational policies, procedures, and legal requirements in all event-related activities.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience.
  • Minimum of three years of progressively responsible fundraising or special event experience, preferably in a nonprofit environment.
  • Proven success in planning and executing large-scale fundraising events with demonstrated revenue growth and achievement of ambitious fundraising goals.
  • Experience securing corporate sponsorships and cultivating relationships with major donors, volunteers, and community leaders.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience in recruiting, managing, and inspiring volunteer committees.
  • Strong relationship-building, communication, and presentation skills with the ability to engage executives, philanthropists, volunteers, and board members.
  • Demonstrated development and sales competencies, including customer focus, strategic thinking, relationship management, results orientation, networking, and initiative.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, CRM systems, and online fundraising platforms.
  • Team player who thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends as required for meetings and events.
  • Must possess reliable transportation for work-related travel.
  • Must successfully complete a Criminal History Check and FBI Fingerprint Clearance.

Physical Requirements
  • Frequent standing and walking.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in person and by phone.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds of event supplies and materials.

Equal Employment Opportunity & Fair Chance Notice
Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
Pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act, we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment. Any required criminal history check and FBI fingerprint clearance referenced above will be conducted only after a conditional offer of employment has been made, and any conviction history will be considered on an individualized basis in relation to the specific duties of the role.
BGCSV will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Applicants requiring accommodation during the application or interview process should contact Human Resources.
Salary Description
$70,000-$90,000

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