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Special Events Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arlington County, VA

Special Events Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$75K - $116K/yr

The Special Events Manager leads the planning, execution, and post-event review process, working closely with applicants and County departments to ensure successful event delivery. This position ...

CH Premier Jewelers

Be Seen First

Special Events Manager

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Special Events Manager Responsibilities: · The Special Events Manager is responsible for organizing in store activations, pop-ups, and offsite events. · Partner with boutique management and brand ...

Flecha Restaurant

Special Events Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$70K - $78K/yr

Flecha Cantina is seeking a driven, detail-oriented Special Events Manager to own and grow our private events program across all locations. This is a high-visibility, revenue-generating role built ...

Flecha Cantina

Special Events Manager

Chappaqua, NY · On-site

$70K - $78K/yr

Flecha Cantina is seeking a driven, detail-oriented Special Events Manager to own and grow our private events program across all locations. This is a high-visibility, revenue-generating role built ...

Harvest Hosts

Special Events Manager, Escapade

Vail, CO · Remote

$50K - $55K/yr

The Position We are seeking an organized, detail-oriented, and community-driven Special Events Manager to lead the planning, coordination, and execution of large events such as Escapade. This role is ...

Harvest Hosts

Special Events Manager, Escapade

Vail, CO · On-site +1

$50K - $55K/yr

The Position We are seeking an organized, detail-oriented, and community-driven Special Events Manager to lead the planning, coordination, and execution of large events such as Escapade. This role is ...

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How much do special events manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for special events 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 Events Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Special Events Manager, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in event planning, often supported by a relevant degree or certification in hospitality or event management. Familiarity with event management software, budgeting tools, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems is commonly required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure that events are executed smoothly, client expectations are met, and unforeseen challenges are effectively managed.

What does a Special Events Manager do?

A Special Events Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing events such as conferences, fundraisers, corporate gatherings, or social functions. They handle logistics like venue selection, budgeting, vendor coordination, and on-site management to ensure the event runs smoothly. Special Events Managers often work closely with clients to understand their vision and objectives, and they oversee every detail from initial concept to post-event evaluation. Their role requires strong organization, communication, and problem-solving skills.

What Does a Special Events Manager Do?

A special events manager coordinates special events, like weddings and corporate events. Your responsibilities include helping clients plan every facet of an event, scheduling staff and third-party vendors to prepare for and work at the event, and managing logistical details such as venue capacity, parking, seating, and other relevant issues.

What are some common challenges faced by Special Events Managers, and how can they be addressed?

Special Events Managers often encounter challenges such as last-minute changes, tight deadlines, and coordinating with multiple vendors or stakeholders. Successfully managing these situations requires strong organizational skills, clear communication, and flexibility. Building strong relationships with vendors and having contingency plans in place can help mitigate unexpected issues. Regular team meetings and detailed checklists are also effective ways to ensure everyone is aligned and tasks are completed on schedule.
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Special Events Manager jobs near you

Special Events Manager

Arlington County, VA

Arlington, VA • On-site

$75K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Description
MPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Are you an organized, solutions-oriented professional who excels at managing complex operations? The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is seeking a Special Events Manager to oversee the County-wide special events program, managing more than 250 event applications annually. This role coordinates permits for events ranging from community gatherings and trail runs to major events such as the Arlington County Fair and Marine Corps Marathon.
The Special Events Manager leads the planning, execution, and post-event review process, working closely with applicants and County departments to ensure successful event delivery. This position chairs an interdepartmental committee representing public safety, transportation, zoning, public works, and other key functions to support Arlington's diverse community events, cultural celebrations, and tourism initiatives.
Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities:
  • Serving as the primary liaison between event organizers and Arlington County, providing guidance on special event requirements and permitting processes;
  • Managing the review and approval process for more than 250 special event applications annually through a centralized permitting system;
  • Leading the County's interdepartmental special events committee, coordinating reviews, approvals, compliance, timelines, and communications;
  • Facilitating planning, logistics, safety, and post-event meetings with applicants, County staff, and community stakeholders;
  • Representing Arlington County during event planning and execution, ensuring compliance and addressing operational issues;
  • Maintaining and enhancing special event resources, including applications, checklists, guidance materials, website content, and regulatory updates;
  • Overseeing event billing, invoicing, fee reduction requests, payment processing, and related financial coordination;
  • Supporting incident response and problem-solving for permitted events, including safety concerns, emergencies, and changing operational conditions; and
  • Performing other job-related duties as assigned.

The successful candidate will have:
  • Strong organizational skills and can work collaboratively to manage multiple events, deadlines, and meetings;
  • Effective customer service and communications skills to clearly explain processes and address issues across diverse communities;
  • Technical proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 programs (i.e., Sharepoint, Dynamics, Word, Excel, PowerPoint), website updates, and Customer Relationship Managers (CRM) systems; and
  • Ability to build and maintain strong relationships.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in event/hospitality management, business administration, events management, recreation management, communications or related field; and
  • Some experience planning and coordinating events, recreation programming and planning, communications, or related field.

Substitution: Additional years of directly related experience can substitute for the education requirement.
Desirables: Preference may be given to candidates with a Master's Degree in a related field and experience in one or more of the following:
  • Hospitality management, community organizing, or public information;
  • Project or organizational management;
  • Crisis or emergency response management;
  • Park or facility management; and
  • Community engagement for urban planning.

Special Requirements
Resume Requirement: A complete application will include an attached resume which highlights how your background and experience align with the qualifications for this position.
Background Check: A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted. It may include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You may be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.
Additional Information
Work Hours: Monday - Friday, core hours are 9:00am - 5:00 p.m., with a flexible work schedule and teleworking opportunities. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for special events, meetings, and emergencies requiring communication or on-site response.
The official job title is DPR Events Coordinator.
For more information on Arlington County's generous benefits and retirement plan, click here.
Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Click here to learn more about our commitment.
Your responses to the supplemental questionnaire are considered part of the selection process and required for this position. Please do not give "see resume" as a response to the questions. Incomplete applications may not be considered.
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