ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Independent Event Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maritz

ESN Event Strategist - Independent Contractor

$124K - $160K/yr

These independent event strategists, located throughout the 50 U.S. states and District of Columbia, design and implement meeting and incentive solutions for our customers across industries in key ...

Maritz

$112K - $145K/yr

These independent event strategists, located throughout the 50 U.S. states and District of Columbia, design and implement meeting and incentive solutions for our customers across industries in key ...

R. Jack Balthazar, Inc

Design Associate

Vernon, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Jack Balthazar is a full-service event design + build firm serving high-end agencies and independent producers. With in-house floral, carpentry, and fabrication teams, we design and produce inspired ...

EverCommerce

EverPro- Events Manager (Remote, US)

Troubleshoot basic A/V and technical issues independently Event Logistics and Administrative Support * Coordinate travel and lodging arrangements when needed for speakers or internal staff * Arrange ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsIndependent Event Jobs

Independent Event information

See salary details

$11

$20

$29

How much do independent event jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent event in the United States is $20.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Independent Event Planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Event Planner, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in project management, often supported by a degree in hospitality, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with event management software (such as Cvent or Eventbrite), budgeting tools, and vendor management systems is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, creativity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you stand out in this client-facing role. These skills ensure efficient event execution, client satisfaction, and the ability to handle unexpected challenges smoothly.

What is the difference between Independent Event vs Event Coordinator?

AspectIndependent EventEvent Coordinator
CredentialsVaries; often no formal certification requiredTypically requires event planning certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentSelf-managed, often freelance or small-scaleEmployed by organizations, managing multiple events
Industry UsageUsed across various industries for individual eventsCommonly employed in hospitality, corporate, and nonprofit sectors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding independent event planningLooking for professional event planning services

While an Independent Event refers to a single, self-managed event often organized by individuals or small teams, an Event Coordinator is a professional responsible for planning and executing multiple events for clients or organizations. The key difference lies in the level of professionalism, credentials, and work environment, with Event Coordinators typically working within organizations and requiring specific skills and certifications.

What are independent event planners?

Independent event planners are professionals who organize and coordinate various types of events—such as weddings, corporate meetings, parties, and conferences—on a freelance or self-employed basis. Unlike planners who work for event planning companies, independent event planners operate their own businesses and manage all aspects of event logistics, budgeting, vendor coordination, and client communication. They offer personalized services tailored to the specific needs and preferences of their clients, often handling multiple events at once. This role requires strong organizational, negotiation, and communication skills.

What are the main challenges faced by independent event planners, and how can they be managed effectively?

Independent event planners often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as client communication, vendor coordination, budgeting, and on-site event management. Common challenges include managing tight deadlines, handling unexpected changes, and ensuring client satisfaction with limited resources. To manage these effectively, it's essential to develop strong organizational skills, build a reliable network of vendors, and maintain clear, proactive communication with clients. Leveraging event management software and creating detailed contingency plans can also help address these challenges and ensure successful events.
More about Independent Event jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Event jobs? Cities with the most Independent Event job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Independent Event jobs? The most popular types of Independent Event jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Independent Event jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Event jobs are:
Independent Event jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Event job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,843 per year, or $20.6 per hour.
ESN Event Strategist - Independent Contractor

ESN Event Strategist - Independent Contractor

Maritz

Remote

$124K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

EXCITED TO GROW YOUR CAREER? WE'RE GLAD YOU'RE HERE!
First ... what is it? The ESN is a team of entrepreneurially focused sales and account managers supporting the Maritz brand with sourcing and other event services. These independent event strategists, located throughout the 50 U.S. states and District of Columbia, design and implement meeting and incentive solutions for our customers across industries in key markets around the world.
The following states/territories/countries are excluded for residence: California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, Puerto Rico, and any countries outside of the US.
We offer a business opportunity for experienced hospitality sales and meeting-planning professionals seeking the independence and rewards of running your own business, while at the same time offering innovative solutions for your customers. You succeed by tapping into the rich resources of our organization. Discovering what works, what differentiates, and what does not work is essential to accelerating your personal objectives. Every step of the way, you have someone ready to respond and help you stay on track, while also giving you the independence you desire.
Sure, you need compelling products and services, but how can you succeed without tools and resources that truly set you apart? A quick glance at our https://maritz.com/solutions/business-events/ website will show you that we have solutions for almost anyone who conducts meetings with 10 or more people. What differentiates you from day one? You work for yourself, but to achieve financial success you need to sell and retain your accounts. Traditional tasks include:
  • New account identification, development, and solicitation.
  • Initiation, compilation, and presentation of site selection recommendations to prospective clients.
  • Sales proposal development, presentation, and client negotiations.
  • Initiation and negotiation of applicable hotel and meeting facility contracts.
  • Account management and administration.

This is a commission based, independent contractor opportunity!
Top 3 Reasons to Join the ESN Team at Maritz
Realize your dream of work/life balance and achieve your financial goals.
  • Be your own boss ... Control your own destiny!
  • Foundation of success with a network that has been in place close to 25 years.
  • Uncapped potential to earn.
  • Regular reporting support on individual metrics.
  • Bi-weekly individual commission payments.

Truly differentiate yourself from the competition.
  • Align yourself with the preeminent full-service events leader in the industry.
  • Increase your effectiveness with proprietary benchmarking tools for effective sourcing, personalized sales materials, and CRM analytics.
  • Open doors to expanded services as the opportunity arises.

Power at your fingertips.
  • 9.7K Events Contracted
  • 4.5M+ Room Nights
  • $1B+ Room Spend
  • 2K+ Clients

What do I need to do to be considered?
  • Step one, apply!
  • Have a minimum of five years of experience in sales, preferably within the hospitality business. Seasoned and successful sales professionals in other industries are also encouraged to apply.
  • Proof of LLC or Business License. Experience in hotel buying, as well as strong knowledge of program/event budget maintenance preferred.
  • Knowledge of travel supplier operations, overall capabilities/range of services preferred.
  • Sales pipeline with detailed list of prospects to be added to the company CRM upon joining the ESN preferred.
  • Proven negotiation skills and prior successful experience in developing and maintaining key client and supplier relationships.
  • Knowledge of U.S. domestic and/or international hotels and destinations preferred.

Our most successful Event Strategists commit to their business completely. However, we respect your independent opportunity and do allow you to pursue other interests. Our only exclusion is to not represent any organizations that provide competing solutions.
Want to learn more?
Gary Schirmacher, CMP
Senior Consultant, Talent Acquisition
gary.schirmacher@maritz.com
Maritz offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, 401k, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, and more! Part-time employees may qualify for medical, 401k, and paid time off depending on total hours worked. View all details at www.MaritzBenefits.com.
Maritz will only employ applicants who have authorization to work permanently in the U.S. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Those who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future are not eligible for hire. No calls or agencies please.
Maritz is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace free of any discrimination or harassment. If you have a disability and are having difficulty accessing or using this website to apply for a position, you can request help by calling 1-636-827-9761 or by sending an email to peopleanddevelopment@maritz.com

Apply