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Special Event Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

M Culinary Concepts

Special Event Coordinator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

This role provides planning, administrative, client, and onsite support to our Special Events team while offering the opportunity to grow into independently managing assigned clients and smaller ...

City of New York

Special Event Coordinator

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

The Special Event Coordinator is responsible for providing support to the lead event planners in the development, logistical management, and production of large-scale special events throughout the ...

BCD Travel

Senior Event Planner

Manhattan, NY · On-site

At BCD Meetings & Events (BCD M&E), we provide more than meeting and event planning services: we ... be a part of something special, can rise to our standards and love to bring their unique ...

BCD

Senior Event Planner

Manhattan, NY

At BCD Meetings & Events (BCD M&E), we provide more than meeting and event planning services: we ... be a part of something special, can rise to our standards and love to bring their unique ...

BCD Travel

Senior Event Planner

Manhattan, NY · On-site

At BCD Meetings & Events (BCD M&E), we provide more than meeting and event planning services: we ... be a part of something special, can rise to our standards and love to bring their unique ...

University of Arizona

Events Planner

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Events Planner Posting Number req26779 Department Humanities Administration Department Website Link ... Oversee all aspects of annual, scheduled events and other special events from conception through ...

AEG

Manager, Special Event Sales

Nashville, TN · On-site

As the Manager, Special Events Sales at GEODIS Park, home of Nashville SC, you will play a critical ... Build relationships with local event planners, corporate planners, and decision-makers to promote ...

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Special Event Planner information

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How much do special event planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for special event planner in the United States is $30.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $35.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a special event planner?

Special Event Planners are professionals who organize and coordinate events such as weddings, corporate meetings, conferences, galas, and other large gatherings. They handle all aspects of event planning, including budgeting, venue selection, vendor management, logistics, and on-the-day coordination to ensure everything runs smoothly. Their goal is to create memorable experiences tailored to their clients' needs and preferences. Special Event Planners often work with a variety of clients and must be skilled in communication, organization, and problem-solving.

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

To thrive as a Special Event Planner, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and experience in project management, often supported by a relevant degree or certification in event planning or hospitality. Familiarity with event management software, budgeting tools, and vendor management systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, creativity, and problem-solving skills help you stand out in this client-facing role. These skills and qualities are crucial for executing seamless events, maintaining client satisfaction, and managing complex logistics under tight deadlines.

What are some common challenges faced by special event planners and how can they be effectively managed?

Special Event Planners often face challenges such as managing last-minute changes, coordinating with multiple vendors, and staying within budget constraints. Effective communication, detailed timelines, and contingency plans are essential for overcoming these obstacles. Building strong relationships with trusted vendors and maintaining flexibility can help ensure events run smoothly, even when unexpected issues arise. Additionally, leveraging event management software can aid in organization and streamline collaboration with team members.

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

AspectSpecial Event PlannerEvent Coordinator
CredentialsOften requires certifications like CMP or CSEPMay not require formal certifications
Work EnvironmentFocuses on planning and designing large or complex eventsHandles logistics and execution of events
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in hospitality, corporate, and nonprofit sectors for high-profile eventsCommon in various industries for managing event details
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare to understand planning scope and credentialsOften searched for event execution roles

While both roles involve event management, Special Event Planners focus on designing and coordinating large, complex events often requiring certifications, whereas Event Coordinators handle the logistics and execution of events, typically with less emphasis on formal credentials.

Is there a demand for special event planners?

The demand for special event planners remains steady, especially as organizations, corporations, and individuals continue to host events such as weddings, conferences, and celebrations. Success in this field often requires strong organizational skills, creativity, and familiarity with event management tools, with job opportunities typically available through various event planning companies and freelance work.

What kind of special event planners make the most money?

Experienced corporate event planners and those specializing in high-profile or luxury events tend to earn the highest salaries. Skills in budgeting, vendor management, and certification in event planning can also contribute to higher earnings, especially when working with large clients or in affluent markets.
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What are popular job titles related to Special Event Planner jobs?

For Special Event Planner jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Special Event Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Event Planner 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 $63,335 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Special Event Coordinator

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

M Culinary Concepts
Convention and Trade Show Organizers • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about M Culinary Conceptsexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Special Events Coordinator

M Culinary Concepts is seeking an organized, energetic, and hospitality-minded Special Events Coordinator to join our dynamic team. As an award-winning catering company based in Phoenix, AZ, we believe our people are the foundation of our success.

About the Role

We're looking for a Special Events Coordinator who loves bringing details together, working with people, and being part of creating incredible events. This role provides planning, administrative, client, and onsite support to our Special Events team while offering the opportunity to grow into independently managing assigned clients and smaller events.

If you're highly organized, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and want to build your career in catering and special events, we'd love to meet you.

What You'll Do

As our Special Events Coordinator, you'll play an important role in helping our events come together from planning through execution by:

  • Creating and updating BEOs, menus, guest counts, service details, dietary information, equipment, and other event information
  • Preparing client-facing menus, signage, event binders, and other event materials
  • Keeping event files, spreadsheets, trackers, and planning documents organized and accurate
  • Coordinating meetings and site visits and tracking important decisions, action items, and deadlines
  • Working closely with Culinary, Operations, Marketing, Finance, and Project Management to ensure event details are aligned
  • Serving as the main point of contact for assigned clients and communicating event details, menus, deadlines, and enhancements
  • Independently coordinating smaller events as assigned
  • Tracking client agreements, deposits, payments, guest counts, and other required information
  • Providing onsite event support and helping troubleshoot day-of-event needs
  • Helping improve department templates, checklists, trackers, and processes

We're Looking For Someone Who Is

  • Passionate about hospitality and creating exceptional experiences
  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail
  • A great communicator who enjoys working with both clients and internal teams
  • Able to manage multiple projects, details, and deadlines at once
  • Proactive and comfortable taking ownership of responsibilities
  • A problem solver who can adapt when plans change
  • Positive, approachable, and committed to excellent customer service
  • Comfortable working independently while knowing when to ask questions or escalate concerns
  • A true team player who enjoys collaborating across departments

M Culinary Concepts: Where Food is Fun!

At M Culinary Concepts, we're a passionate team dedicated to creating exceptional food and beverage experiences while fostering an engaging workplace. Guided by our core values - Inspiring Passion, Service to Others, Humbly Confident, and Making Huge Fun - we believe in working hard, supporting one another, and celebrating our successes together. If you thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced culture, you'll fit right in.

The Perks You Deserve:

As an employee-owner, you'll enjoy a sweet benefits package including medical, dental, vision insurance, a 401(k) match, and daily grab-and-go lunches made by our amazing chefs! Plus, you'll stay connected with our internal app and experience the ownership spirit that makes M Culinary so special.

What We Need From You:

  • Experience in catering, hospitality, food & beverage, special events, or a related environment preferred
  • Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong customer service and hospitality mindset
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams
  • Experience with Caterease, Canva, or similar event planning/design systems preferred
  • Ability to work independently and take increasing ownership of assigned clients and events
  • Flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and extended event days as needed
  • Willingness to travel for events as neededAbility to lift 20+ lbs. and work on your feet for extended periods

Ready to Join the M Culinary Concepts Team?

If you're passionate about events, hospitality, and creating experiences that surpass expectations - and you're looking for an opportunity to grow your career while being part of an incredible team - we'd love to hear from you!

Apply today using our quick and mobile-friendly application.

Apply