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Special Event Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Special Event Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17 - $19.44/hr

Special Events Set-up Associate PEOPLE MANAGER: No FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt PAY GRADE: 201 PAY RANGE ... Help direct event attendees in case of an emergency * Perform minor repairs on event equipment as ...

The Special Event Supervisor opens/closes the SWT park and ride facility/fairground area they are ... Direct passengers from the parking ramp or fairgrounds to the bus boarding area. * Assist ...

Special Event Personnel

Ronks, PA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

... and special offerings. Event Staff serve the company and its guests by fulfilling a variety of ... Direct traffic and/or the parking of vehicles. Greet guests as they enter the event and respective ...

$80 - $100/hr

National Director, Special Events, Galas & Gatherings Regular Full Time Atlanta, GA, US 3 days ago ... This role is critical in aligning event strategies with the Arthritis Foundation's mission to drive ...

Support the Senior Director in strategic initiatives, special projects, and other duties as ... Strong knowledge of the event/hospitality industry; familiarity with the Nashville market is a plus.

Showing results 21-40

Special Event Director information

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$32.5K

$78.2K

$140K

How much do special event director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for special event director in the United States is $78,224.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,000.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a special event director do?

A Special Event Director is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing events such as corporate functions, weddings, festivals, and fundraisers. They manage all aspects of an event, including budgeting, venue selection, vendor negotiations, logistics, and staff supervision. Their goal is to ensure each event runs smoothly, meets client expectations, and achieves its objectives. Special Event Directors must have strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills to handle unexpected challenges and deliver memorable experiences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a special event director?

To thrive as a Special Event Director, you need strong organizational skills, project management expertise, and experience in event planning, often backed by a degree in hospitality, marketing, or a related field. Familiarity with event management software, budgeting tools, and logistics platforms is typically required, along with relevant certifications like CMP (Certified Meeting Professional). Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities set top candidates apart in coordinating teams and engaging clients. These skills ensure seamless event execution, client satisfaction, and the ability to handle complex, high-pressure situations.

What are some common challenges faced by special event directors when coordinating large-scale events?

Special Event Directors often face challenges such as managing tight deadlines, coordinating with multiple vendors and stakeholders, and adapting to last-minute changes. Ensuring seamless communication among team members and maintaining a clear vision under pressure are crucial for successful event execution. Additionally, balancing budget constraints while delivering a memorable experience requires strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

What is the difference between Special Event Director vs Event Coordinator?

AspectSpecial Event DirectorEvent Coordinator
CredentialsExperience in event planning, sometimes certifications like CMP or CSEPSimilar credentials, often entry-level certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentLeads large-scale events, manages teams, oversees budgetsAssists with planning, coordinates logistics, supports event execution
Employer & IndustryEvent planning companies, corporations, nonprofitsEvent planning firms, venues, corporate clients

The Special Event Director typically oversees large events, managing teams and budgets, while the Event Coordinator supports the planning process and handles logistics. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in scope and responsibility.

What cities are hiring for Special Event Director jobs?

Cities with the most Special Event Director job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Special Event jobs?

The most popular types of Special Event jobs are:

What states have the most Special Event Director jobs?

States with the most job openings for Special Event Director jobs include:

Infographic showing various Special Event Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,224 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Special Event Associate

The Salvation Army

Chicago, IL • On-site

$17 - $19.44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

600th of 786 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

THE SALVATION ARMY

NORTH & CENTRAL ILLINOIS DIVISION

Ray and Joan Kroc Corp Community Center

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: Special Events Set-up Associate

PEOPLE MANAGER: No

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

PAY GRADE: 201

PAY RANGE: $17.00-19.44

WHO WE ARE

At The Salvation Army, we are dedicated to Doing the Most Good. We are made up of thousands of officers, soldiers, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners working together to holistically meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of our most vulnerable neighbors

KROC CENTER CHICAGO VISION: Kroc Center Chicago is a community center where families, individuals and relationships thrive in the name of Jesus.

JOB SUMMARY

Special Events Setup Associate to help manage the logistics of our events. The responsibilities include setting up and breaking down event venues, ensuring all event elements are in place, coordinating with event vendors, and ensuring the safety and cleanliness of the event site. Our ideal candidates are detail-oriented, physically fit, and able to work efficiently under pressure. They should have experience working in fast-paced environments and be able to work both independently and as part of a team.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Areas of responsibility include but are not limited to the following:

  • Assemble, set up and break down event equipment such as stages, tables, chairs decorations and lighting.
  • Coordinate with event coordinators to understand event details and requirements.
  • Ensure all setup tasks are completed on time and to the specification of the event planner
  • Maintain a clean and safe environment before during and after use and report any damages as needed
  • Assist with loading and unloading event materials and equipment
  • Follow all safety guidelines to ensure the safety of staff and event attendees.
  • Help direct event attendees in case of an emergency
  • Perform minor repairs on event equipment as needed
  • Assist in inventory management and control or event materials and equipment.

OTHER DUTIES

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Experience: Basic understanding of event logistics and setup procedures is beneficials. Familiarity with safety guideline and regulations.

Skills/Abilities:

  • Physical stamina and strength: Ability to lift and move heavy equipment and materials.
  • Attention to detail: Ensuring all elements of the event setup are correctly placed and functioning.
  • Time management: Completing tasks efficiently within tight deadlines.
  • Problem-solving: Addressing any issues that arise during setup or breakdown.
  • Communication: Effectively coordinating with team members and event coordinators.
  • Safety awareness: Understanding and following safety protocols to prevent accidents.
  • Abilities:
  • Teamwork: Working collaboratively with other crew members to achieve common goals.
  • Adaptability: Adjusting to changing event requirements and environments.
  • Manual dexterity: Handling tools and equipment with precision.
  • Reliability: Being dependable and punctual for all scheduled shifts.
  • Customer service: Interacting politely and professionally with event attendees and clients.
  • A willingness to promote the mission of The Salvation Army.

JOB LIMITATIONS

  • This individual will adhere to all policies and procedures in carrying out the responsibilities of this position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Heavy lifting: Frequently lifting and moving heavy equipment, furniture, and materials as needed.
  • Standing and walking: Long periods of standing and walking, often on uneven surfaces.
  • Bending and stooping: Regularly bending, stooping, and reaching to set up and dismantle event elements.
  • Climbing: Occasionally climbing ladders to hang decorations or set up lighting.
  • Manual dexterity: Handling tools and equipment with precision.
  • Endurance: Working long hours, sometimes in adverse weather conditions.
  • Pushing and pulling: Moving carts and equipment to and from event locations.

COMPETENCIES

  1. Maintain positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in a manner that fosters and maintains positive relationships with co-workers and supervisors.
  2. Resolve conflicts in a positive manner.
  3. Treat staff, clients, and visitors with courtesy.
  4. Respect others' property and person.
  5. Use professional and appropriate communication to and about co-workers, supervisors and subordinates.
  6. Support the Mission of The Salvation Army by treating every donor, contact and colleague with respect and dignity, and without discrimination of any kind.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES

This individual will be evaluated on how effectively the outcomes of this position are achieved as well as the timeliness, accuracy, and completeness of accomplishing assigned goals.

DOING THE MOST GOOD

Do you want to use your skills and talents to make a lasting difference in the world? The Salvation Army is the fourth largest charity in the United States and is an international organization based on Biblical principles created to help people in need. We are mission-driven, diverse, collaborative, and focused on positive results for people. Join us in making a difference.

The Salvation Army offers a competitive benefit package for eligible employees which may include the following medical, dental, vision, hearing, disability and life insurance, flexible spending accounts, 403(b) retirement accounts, a company-funded defined contribution (pension) plan and generous time off policies.

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for this position, please contact the Human Resources department.

The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer Minority/Female/Veterans/Disabled. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.


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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US