1

Special Events Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Special Events Associate information

See California salary details

$11

$19

$25

How much do special events associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for special events associate in California is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a special events associate?

Special Events Associates are professionals who assist in the planning, coordination, and execution of events such as conferences, fundraisers, weddings, corporate meetings, and community functions. They support event managers by handling logistics, communicating with vendors, setting up venues, and ensuring that all event details run smoothly. Their role may also include tasks like managing guest lists, overseeing event timelines, and providing on-site support during the event. This position requires strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

What is the difference between Special Events Associate vs Event Coordinator?

AspectSpecial Events AssociateEvent Coordinator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer associate degreeHigh school diploma; some roles prefer associate or bachelor's degree in hospitality or related field
Work EnvironmentEvent venues, hotels, nonprofit organizations, corporate settingsEvent venues, hotels, corporate offices, nonprofit organizations
ResponsibilitiesAssist with event setup, vendor coordination, guest managementPlan, organize, and oversee event logistics from start to finish

Special Events Associates typically support event planning and execution, focusing on assisting with various tasks. Event Coordinators take on more responsibility for planning and managing entire events. Both roles often work in similar environments and require comparable credentials, but the Event Coordinator role involves more leadership and decision-making.

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

To thrive as a Special Events Associate, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and experience in event planning or hospitality, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with event management software, budgeting tools, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills set top candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure smooth event execution, client satisfaction, and the ability to handle unexpected challenges efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by special events associates during large-scale events and how can they be addressed?

Special Events Associates often encounter challenges such as last-minute changes, coordinating multiple vendors, and managing tight timelines during large-scale events. To address these, it’s important to maintain clear communication with all stakeholders, anticipate potential issues by having contingency plans, and stay organized with detailed checklists. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are crucial, as is the ability to remain calm under pressure while ensuring the event runs smoothly.
What are the most commonly searched types of Special Events jobs in California? The most popular types of Special Events jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Special Events Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Special Events Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Special Events Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,209 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Associate Director of Meetings and Special Events

Marriott

Half Moon Bay, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Marriott International rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,183 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 108 rated hotels


Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Assists in leading meetings and special events. Position assists in the development and implementation of departmental strategies and ensures implementation of the brand service strategy and brand initiatives. The position has responsibility for executing all property events with a seamless turnover from sales to operations and back to sales. Helps ensure the team meets the brand's target customer needs, employee satisfaction, and focuses on growing event revenues and maximizing the financial performance of the department.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

Education and Experience

High school diploma or GED; 4 years experience in event management, food and beverage, sales and marketing, or related professional area.

OR

2-year degree from an accredited university in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or related major; 2 years experience in event management, food and beverage, sales and marketing, or related professional area.

CORE WORK ACTIVITIES

Assisting in Managing Meetings and Special Events Operations and Budgets

Researches and analyzes new products, pricing and services of competition.

Works with direct reports to review scheduled events and troubleshoot potential challenges/conflicts.

Ensures the property is apprised of all groups that will impact property operations.

Ensures meeting space and corresponding heart of the house areas are cleaned and maintained.

Ensures furniture and equipment is maintained and inventory levels are kept in accordance to corporate guidelines.

Leads the execution of brand service initiatives in event management areas.

Develops an event management strategy that is aligned with the company's business strategy and leads its execution.

Conduct daily walk-through of banquet floor to ensure client satisfaction and quality standards.

Assisting in Leading Meetings and Special Events Teams

Holds event management team accountable for desired service behaviors related to product and service delivery.

Communicates a clear and consistent message regarding departmental goals to produce desired results.

Assists in execution of departmental goals in game plans.

Ensures brand and regional business initiatives are implemented and communicates follow-up actions to team as necessary.

Managing Profitability

Encourages calculated risk-taking to generate incremental revenue and deliver excellent guest service.

Develops working relationships with outside vendors and establishes prices and service agreements to enhance the event experience and to increase additional revenue opportunities for the property.

Assists in creating and achieving the annual banquet budget.

Focuses on building the property's top line revenue by supporting the execution of the annual Meetings & Special Events Marketing Plan, and providing leadership to the team on post-contractual upselling efforts.

Partners with sales team to ensure pricing and space allocations are in line with property guidelines for maximizing revenue opportunities.

Ensuring Exceptional Customer Service

Creates an atmosphere in all event management operations areas that meets or exceeds guest expectations.

Consult with customers in order to determine objectives and requirements for events such as meetings, conferences, and conventions.

Review customer service data to identify service failures and provide guidance on problem resolution.

Conducting Human Resources Activities

Works with Human Resources to ensure compliance with all local, state and federal (OSHA, Health Department) regulations.

Reviews property specific event operations annually and makes appropriate adjustments.

Reviews staffing levels to ensure that guest service and operational needs are met.

Communicates and ensures departmental and property emergency procedures are executed when necessary.

Ensures that regular, ongoing communication is happening in all areas of event operations (e.g., BEO meetings, pre-event briefings, staff meetings, food and beverage team, culinary team).

Ensures performance feedback is timely through the standard feedback processes

At Marriott International, we are dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer, welcoming all and providing access to opportunity. We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated.Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our associates. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or other basis protected by applicable law. Marriott International considers for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with applicable federal, state and local law.

At more than 100 award-winning properties worldwide, The Ritz-Carlton Ladies and Gentlemen create experiences so exceptional that long after a guest stays with us, the experience stays with them. Attracting the world's top hospitality professionals who curate lifelong memories, we believe that everyone succeeds when they are empowered to be creative, thoughtful and compassionate.


Every day, we set the standard for rare and special luxury service the world over and pride ourselves on delivering excellence in the care and comfort of our guests.

Your role will be to ensure that the "Gold Standards" of The Ritz-Carlton are delivered graciously and thoughtfully every day. The Gold Standards are the foundation of The Ritz-Carlton and are what guides us each day to be better than the next. It is this foundation and our belief that our culture drives success by which The Ritz Carlton has earned the reputation as a global brand leader in luxury hospitality. As part of our team, you will learn and exemplify the Gold Standards, such as our Employee Promise, Credo and our Service Values. And our promise to you is that we offer the chance to be proud of the work you do and who you work with.

In joining The Ritz-Carlton, you join a portfolio of brands with Marriott International. Be where you can do your best work, begin your purpose, belong to an amazing global team, and become the best version of you.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Marriott International employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom