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Senior Event Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Senior Protocol Officer

Springfield, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Desired completion of formal training in protocol or event management (e.g., The Protocol School of ... senior leadership, foreign dignitaries, diplomats, foreign military personnel, legislative, and ...

InstantServe LLC

senior IA Analyst

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

Review, monitor, and report information being sent to the Security Event Management (SEM) for irregular or suspicious activity. * Create work orders for relevant IAVM notices and vulnerability ...

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Senior Event Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$22.3K

$117.2K

$208.2K

How much do senior event manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior event manager in Virginia is $117,244.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,800.00 and $143,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior event manager do?

A Senior Event Manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of large-scale events, such as conferences, corporate meetings, weddings, or festivals. They are responsible for managing event budgets, negotiating with vendors, supervising event staff, and ensuring all logistics run smoothly. Additionally, they often handle client communications, troubleshoot issues in real time, and ensure that every event meets the client’s objectives and expectations. Their expertise is crucial for delivering memorable and successful events.

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

AspectSenior Event ManagerEvent Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in hospitality, marketing, or related field; experience in event managementHigh school diploma or equivalent; some experience or training in event planning
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages large-scale events, oversees budgetsAssists with event setup, coordination, and logistics
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in corporate, hospitality, and event planning companies for senior rolesCommon entry-level or supporting role in similar industries

The main difference is that a Senior Event Manager oversees entire event projects, manages teams, and handles budgets, while an Event Coordinator supports the planning and logistics of events. The Senior Event Manager has more responsibilities, experience requirements, and leadership duties.

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

To thrive as a Senior Event Manager, you need extensive experience in event planning, budget management, and vendor coordination, typically supported by a degree in hospitality, marketing, or a related field. Familiarity with event management software (such as Cvent or Eventbrite), project management tools, and relevant certifications (like CMP) is common in the industry. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills distinguish top performers, enabling them to manage teams and client relationships effectively. These skills and qualifications are crucial for executing seamless, large-scale events that meet client goals and deliver memorable attendee experiences.

What are some typical challenges a senior event manager faces when coordinating large-scale events?

Senior Event Managers often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines, balancing client expectations with budget constraints, and overseeing multiple vendors simultaneously. Effective communication and proactive problem-solving are crucial, as unforeseen issues—like last-minute changes or technical glitches—can arise. Success in the role requires strong organizational skills, the ability to delegate tasks within a team, and adaptability to shifting priorities, especially when handling complex or high-profile events.
What are the most commonly searched types of Senior Event jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Senior Event jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Event Manager jobs in Virginia? For Senior Event Manager jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Event Manager jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Event Manager jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Event Manager jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Event Manager job openings:
Senior Event Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Event Manager job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,244 per year, or $56.4 per hour.

Senior Protocol Officer

SAIC

Springfield, VA • On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 223 rated it services

Job description

Job Description
Description
SAIC® is a premier Fortune 500® mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, civilian and intelligence markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Protocol Officer who will serve as a principal advisor and the lead planner for all matters of official protocol, ceremony, and diplomatic etiquette. This position operates with a high degree of autonomy and is responsible for flawlessly planning and executing high-level visits, ceremonies, and special events involving senior leadership, foreign dignitaries, and other distinguished visitors. The Senior Protocol Officer provides expert guidance to ensure all interactions adhere to international norms, cultural sensitivities, and established precedents, thereby upholding the reputation and dignity of the organization on a global stage. This role requires strategic foresight, exceptional diplomatic tact, and the ability to manage complex logistics under pressure.
Work will be performed at the customer site in Springfield, VA.
The hiring of this position is contingent upon contract award. Anticipated award is fall of 2026.
Responsibilities will include the following:
  • Serve as the primary subject matter expert and principal advisor to senior leadership on all protocol-related matters, including order of precedence, flag etiquette, forms of address, and cultural customs.
  • Lead the comprehensive planning, coordination, and execution of distinguished visitor engagements, including creating detailed itineraries, arranging secure transportation, lodging, and official entertainment.
  • Direct all aspects of official ceremonies, conferences, and formal events, overseeing everything from venue selection and seating arrangements to scriptwriting and sequence of events.
  • Function as the primary liaison with foreign embassies, government agencies, military counterparts, and other external organizations to coordinate visits and events.
  • Manage the organization's official gift program, including the selection, procurement, and presentation of appropriate gifts for foreign and domestic counterparts.
  • Develop and maintain the organization's official protocol policies and provide training to staff and leadership to ensure consistent application.
  • Oversee crisis management from a protocol perspective, adapting plans quickly and discreetly in response to unexpected schedule changes or diplomatic incidents.
  • Manage the protocol office budget, resources, and supervise junior protocol staff, interns, or volunteers.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications include:
  • Active TS/SCI is REQUIRED.
  • Willing and able to obtain a Polygraph.
  • Education: A minimum of a Master's degree in Business, Political Science, International Relations, Public Administration, or a related field. In lieu of a master's degree, the candidate must have 15+ years of direct protocol experience. Desired completion of formal training in protocol or event management (e.g., The Protocol School of Washington, George Washington University Event Management Program, or equivalent program).
  • Experience: A minimum of 10 years of dedicated, full-time experience in a protocol- focused role within a diplomatic, military, government, or international corporate environment.
  • Leadership: Demonstrated experience leading the planning and execution of large-scale, high-visibility events (e.g., summits, state dinners, formal military ceremonies).
  • Advisory Role: Proven experience serving as a direct protocol advisor to Flag Officers, Ambassadors, Cabinet-level officials, or C-suite executives.
  • Demonstrated experience planning, coordinating, and executing communication and event planning related functions for senior leadership, foreign dignitaries, diplomats, foreign military personnel, legislative, and government officials.
  • Demonstrated experience in providing on-site logistical support for events including site preparation.
Desired Qualifications include:
  • Language Skills: Proficiency in one or more foreign languages.
  • Formal Training: Completion of a recognized protocol officer training course (e.g., from the Protocol School of Washington, George Washington University Event Management Program, or a similar institution).

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
Overview
SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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