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Special Events Associate Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Ability to carefully follow direction with care to all details and department standards paying special attention to * Banquet Event Orders and Pull Sheets to ensure accuracy of all event set ups.

Development Associate

Worcester, MA · On-site

$20.19 - $23.56/hr

Position Summary: The Development Associate is a critical member of the Development Team ... Support the development of donor communications, including special appeals, mailings, and event ...

Front Desk Associate (Contractor)

Boston, MA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Front Desk Associate Your mission as a Front Desk Associate, is to serve as the face of the Summer ... Support Club Events and Daily Operations: Assist with tournaments, special events, and ...

Sales Associate

Boston, MA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Overview: We're looking for Sales Associates to join our team in Boston! This role is perfect for ... Help facilitate in-store beading appointments, parties, and special events-making every visit extra ...

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Showing results 1-20

Special Events Associate information

See Massachusetts salary details

$13

$21

$27

How much do special events associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for special events associate in Massachusetts is $21.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $25.48 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Special Events jobs in Massachusetts?

The most popular types of Special Events jobs in Massachusetts are:

Infographic showing various Special Events Associate job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,602 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Senior Events Planning Associate

Cambridge, MA • On-site

MIT Human Resources
Human Resource Programs Administration • 1 - 10 employees

$20 - $23/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

SENIOR EVENTS PLANNING ASSOCIATE, Office of the President (part-time, 50%), to coordinate administrative functions of Gray House related to VIP and high-profile events and event planning; plan, organize, and execute the events and social activities at Gray House working with the President’s Office, President’s Spouse, Gray House Manager, other departments, caterers, A/V, and outside vendors; request proposals from Executive Chef and caterers; work with catering representatives on menu planning, event details, and staffing needs; schedule special requirements and orders, such as room set-up/take-down, musicians, flowers, and rentals (linens, glassware, equipment); prepare guest lists and design and produce electronic invitations; ensure seating charts are approved and create nametags, place cards, and menu cards; conduct pre-event house check and post-event debrief and note lessons learned; review expenses and process payments; input necessary information into event database and generate data for financial reporting and analysis of events; serve as back-up to the Gray House Manager for the overall operations of Gray House.
The full job description is available here: Senior Events Planning Associate


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About MIT Human Resources

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Our mission is to advance a vibrant and diverse work community where individuals and groups thrive and contribute to MIT's excellence. We offer Support, Services, and Programs to enhance your work life. We're here to help. MIT is committed to helping employees achieve a healthy balance between their careers and the full lives they lead off-campus. Explore all of MIT's Work & Life resources, including MyLife Services, which provides 24/7 access to a network of experts available to help with life’s challenges.

Industry

Human resource programs administration

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

2014