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Special Event Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Green Mtn. Concert Services

Event Manager

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

... high-profile special events, venues, and educational institutions across the Northeast. GMCS ... Summary The Event Manager is responsible for the event security operations of the GMCS events ...

Racine Country Club

Event Manager

Racine, WI · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Events Manager Are you a hospitality professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has a ... Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by Club leadership. Qualifications ...

The Woodruff Arts Center

Event Coordinator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required 3-5 years of experience in the entertainment or hospitality industry working in special event or concert management Knowledge of special event ...

Racine Country Club

Event Manager

Racine, WI · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Events Manager Are you a hospitality professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has a ... Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by Club leadership. Qualifications ...

Racine Country Club

Event Manager

Racine, WI · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Events Manager Are you a hospitality professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has a ... Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by Club leadership. Qualifications ...

Racine Country Club

Event Manager

Racine, WI · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Events Manager Are you a hospitality professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has a ... Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by Club leadership. Qualifications ...

Racine Country Club

Event Manager

Racine, WI · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Events Manager Are you a hospitality professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has a ... Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by Club leadership. Qualifications ...

Racine Country Club

Event Manager

Racine, WI · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Events Manager Are you a hospitality professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has a ... Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by Club leadership. Qualifications ...

Racine Country Club

Event Manager

Racine, WI · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Events Manager Are you a hospitality professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has a ... Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by Club leadership. Qualifications ...

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Special Event Manager information

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$24.5K

$55.9K

$90K

How much do special event manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for special event manager in the United States is $55,892.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $66,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Special Event Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Special Event Manager, you need strong organizational skills, experience in event planning, and often a degree in hospitality or a related field. Familiarity with event management software, budgeting tools, and project management systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities help you excel when coordinating teams and managing client expectations. These skills are crucial for ensuring seamless event execution, client satisfaction, and the ability to handle unexpected challenges.

What are some common challenges Special Event Managers face when coordinating large-scale events, and how can they be addressed?

Special Event Managers often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines, coordinating with multiple vendors, and adapting to last-minute changes. Effective communication and detailed planning are essential to prevent misunderstandings and ensure all stakeholders are aligned. Building strong relationships with reliable vendors and maintaining a flexible mindset can help address unexpected issues swiftly. Leveraging event management software and checklists also aids in tracking progress and managing logistics efficiently.

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

AspectSpecial Event ManagerEvent Coordinator
CredentialsRelevant experience, certifications like CMP or CSEP often preferredSimilar credentials, often entry-level certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentLeads planning and oversees large or complex eventsAssists in planning, coordinating logistics, and executing events
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in corporate, nonprofit, and hospitality sectors for high-profile eventsCommon across various sectors for supporting event execution
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched for comparing responsibilities, skills, and salariesCompared for entry-level roles and support functions

In summary, a Special Event Manager typically oversees the entire planning and execution of large or complex events, requiring more experience and certifications. An Event Coordinator usually supports the planning process, handling logistics and day-to-day tasks. Both roles are essential in the event industry but differ in scope and responsibility.

What does a Special Event Manager do?

A Special Event Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing events such as conferences, weddings, corporate gatherings, and community functions. They coordinate all aspects of the event, including budgeting, venue selection, vendor management, logistics, and staffing. Special Event Managers work closely with clients to understand their vision and ensure the event runs smoothly from start to finish. Their goal is to create memorable experiences while managing details and solving any issues that arise during the planning and execution phases.
More about Special Event Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Special Event Manager jobs? Cities with the most Special Event Manager 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 Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Special Event Manager jobs include:
Special Event Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Event Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,892 per year, or $26.9 per hour.
Special Events Coordinator Senior

Special Events Coordinator Senior

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY • On-site

$43K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

University Of Kentucky rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Job Title Special Events Coordinator Senior Requisition Number RE54966 Working Title Special Event Manager Department Name 3DH41:Aux Services - University Events Work Location Lexington, KY Grade Level 44 Salary Range $43,805-70,075/year Type of Position Staff Position Time Status Full-Time Required Education

BA

Click here for more information about equivalencies: https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies Required Related Experience

4 yrs

Required License/Registration/Certification
None
Physical Requirements
Lift, push, and pull objects up to 50 pounds, sitting for long periods of time, walking across campus, climbing stairs,
Shift
Monday-Friday 8:00 AM-5:00 PM, additional hours may be needed to meet departmental needs
Job Summary
The University of Kentucky is seeking a Special Event Manager to serve as the operational lead for two of the University's signature programs: Commencement and the College Business Management Institute (CBMI) Conference. This position is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing large-scale events and conferences, managing logistics, stakeholder communications, vendor relationships, registration processes, and on-site operations. The manager collaborates with university departments, external partners, and event committees to ensure seamless event experiences for students, faculty, staff, and conference attendees.
In addition, the position supports university-wide event and reservation management, develops and maintains operational procedures and documentation, oversees special projects, and contributes to continuous process improvement initiatives.
The ideal candidate will possess strong project management, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver exceptional event experiences in a fast-paced environment.
What You Will Do
  • Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of the University's Commencement ceremonies and the College Business Management Institute (CBMI) Conference
  • Develop comprehensive event plans, timelines and operational logistics for large-scale events and conferences
  • Coordinate with university departments, vendors, sponsors, and external partners to ensure successful event delivery
  • Manage event registration processes, attendee communications, and customer service before, during, and after events
  • Oversee on-site event operations, troubleshoot issues, and ensure a seamless experience for all participants
  • Support university-wide event scheduling and reservation management processes
  • Lead special projects and contribute to continuous process improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency
  • Foster strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders while delivering exceptional customer service

What You Will Bring
  • Experience in event management, conference planning, project management, hospitality, or a related field
  • Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple complex events simultaneously
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills
  • Experience coordinating vendors, contracts, logistics, and event operations
  • Strong problem-solving abilities
  • High attention to detail with a commitment to delivering exceptional event experiences
  • Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities while maintaining a high level of professionalism

What Is In It for You
  • Meaningful impact: Lead two of the University's most visible and celebrated signature events
  • Dynamic work: Coordinate a wide variety of conferences, ceremonies, and special projects that engage the campus community
  • Professional growth: Expand your expertise in event management, project leadership, and strategic operations
  • Collaborative environment: Work alongside dedicated campus partners and leadership to deliver memorable experiences
  • Variety and challenge: Every event presents new opportunities to innovate, solve problems, and make a lasting impact
  • Comprehensive benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and opportunities for career development at the University of Kentucky

You will join at an exciting time when your leadership, creativity, and operational expertise will have a direct and lasting impact on some of the University's most important events.
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No Preferred Education/Experience
Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Communications, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in event management, conference services, or a related role, ideally within a higher education or similar setting.
Deadline to Apply 07/13/2026 Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

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About University of Kentucky

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Kentucky (UK), the state's flagship university, was founded in 1865 and its beautiful, sprawling campus, nestled in downtown Lexington, now covers over 900 acres and is home to more than 30,000 students and approximately 13,500 employees. The trees and beautifully manicured greenspaces are a source of pride for the university and combine to create an impressive oasis amidst the busy cityscape that surrounds it.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lexington, KY, US

Year founded

1865

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