ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Special Events Planner Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

AEG

Director of Hospitality & Events

Del Valle, TX · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

We are seeking a dynamic and energetic Director of Hospitality and Special Events to lead our ... Oversee all aspects of event planning, including all front of house operations * Lead the ...

City of Leander

Recreation Manager

Leander, TX · On-site

$83.80K - $100.57K/yr

... planning, organization, and supervision of recreation and educational programs including aquatics, athletics, special interest classes, active adult / senior programs, and special events, while ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsSpecial Events Planner JobsSpecial Events Planner Jobs in Austin, TX

Special Events Planner information

See Austin, TX salary details

$13

$30

$43

How much do special events planner jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for special events planner in Austin, TX is $30.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.85 and $35.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Special Events Planner, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and experience in event coordination, often supported by a degree in hospitality or a related field. Familiarity with event management software like Cvent, budgeting tools, and vendor management systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, creativity, and problem-solving skills help professionals stand out when managing client expectations and responding to last-minute changes. These skills and qualities are essential to deliver seamless, memorable events that meet client goals and run smoothly under pressure.

What are some common challenges a Special Events Planner faces when coordinating large-scale events, and how are they typically addressed?

Special Events Planners often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines, handling last-minute changes, and coordinating with multiple vendors and stakeholders. Effective organization, clear communication, and contingency planning are key strategies used to overcome these obstacles. Planners typically develop detailed timelines, maintain strong vendor relationships, and create backup plans to ensure events run smoothly even when unexpected issues arise. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are essential to adapting quickly and delivering successful events.

What does a Special Events Planner do?

A Special Events Planner is responsible for organizing and coordinating all aspects of events such as corporate meetings, weddings, fundraisers, and parties. Their duties include budgeting, selecting venues, securing vendors, arranging logistics, and ensuring that events run smoothly from start to finish. They collaborate with clients to understand their vision, manage timelines, and handle any issues that arise during the planning process. Successful Special Events Planners are detail-oriented, creative, and skilled in communication and negotiation.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Special Events Planners can earn around $3,000 a month through freelance or full-time roles, especially with experience and strong organizational skills. Other jobs that typically pay this amount without a degree include sales representatives, administrative assistants, and certain skilled trades like HVAC technicians or delivery drivers, which often require certifications or on-the-job training.

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

AspectSpecial Events PlannerEvent Coordinator
CredentialsOften requires experience in event planning, certifications like CMP or CSEP are commonMay require similar experience but less emphasis on certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks on planning and designing large or complex events, often with a longer lead timeHandles day-of event logistics, setup, and coordination
Employer & IndustryUsed in hospitality, corporate, nonprofit, and wedding industriesCommonly employed in similar settings, focusing on execution
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare roles to understand planning scope and responsibilitiesOften compared to understand on-the-ground event execution

In summary, Special Events Planners focus on the overall design and planning of events, requiring specific credentials and long-term coordination. Event Coordinators handle the logistics and execution on the event day, often working closely with planners. Both roles are essential in the event industry but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Special Events Planner jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Special Events Planner job openings:
Special Events Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Events Planner job openings in Austin, TX as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,779 per year, or $30.2 per hour.
Director Sales Special Events - Southwest

Director Sales Special Events - Southwest

AEG Worldwide

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Anschutz Entertainment Group rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

For more than 20 years, AEG has played a pivotal role in transforming sports and live entertainment. Annually, we host more than 160 million guests, promote more than 10,000 shows and present more than 22,000 events around the world. We are committed to innovation, artistry, and community, and leverage the power of our 300+ venues, leading sports franchises, marquee music brands, integrated entertainment districts, premier ticketing platform and global sponsorship activations, to create memorable moments that give the world reason to cheer.
Our business is interwoven with the human mind and heart, and we strive to build a diverse and inclusive company that reflects the artists, athletes, and fans that we host; reach beyond traditional boundaries to support the communities in which we operate; and minimize our impact on the environment by adopting sustainable practices throughout our business operations.
If you want to be challenged to up your game and make a difference, then join us in giving the world reason to cheer!
Job SummaryThe Director Sales-Special Events is responsible for the sales of special events, local special event marketing and networking to grow the special event business, and meeting sales goals. In addition, the Director of Special Events will execute special event contracts and letter agreements.
Essential Functions
  • Network, research and cold call potential clients to create new business opportunities. Manage client relationships. Create event proposals and budgets. Collect event deposits and contract signatures once event(s) are confirmed.
  • Advance event details for confirmed events and serve as contact person for event related issues. Ensure that all steps are taken to guarantee the event is executed successfully. Collect vendor quotes and finalized contracts.
  • Trains and manages special event staff; including bar, wait and security personnel. Ensure that special events staff is adhering to company policy regarding rentals and special event execution. Be available to advise or make recommendations on any issues that may arise in the event process.
  • Follows up with clients to ensure event meet client's expectations, place holds for future dates/show if event could become reoccurring.
  • Promotes upcoming events and availability to potential, existing and past clients. Respond to inquiries on availability, pricing and locations. Negotiate deal terms and pricing.
  • Prepares contracts and letter agreements once proposals are accepted. Submit budget and change orders.
  • Creates competitive pricing models that drive the maximum revenue possible for the venue. Track sales and devise plans to reach annual goals.
  • Develops strategic collateral materials, online marketing and other strategic tools to generate activity.

Required Qualifications
  • BA/BS Degree (4-year) (Advanced Degree Preferred)
    • Advanced Degree in Sales, Marketing, or a related field preferred
  • 6-8 years
    • Of related work experience
    • Prior experience working in music venues preferredf
  • Computer savvy and proficient in MS Office Professional Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel)
  • Must be self-motivated and have a professional and calm demeanor
  • Excellent interpersonal, as well as written and verbal communication skills
  • Extensive experience in sales with an ability to create and foster working relationships with clients
  • Exceptional customer service skills
  • Management experience
  • Strong organization, project management and decision making skills
  • Must be able to work flexible schedule, including nights, weekends and holidays
  • Previous experience in event planning and execution with ability to manage and delegate tasks

Payscale: $71,477.46 - $97,469.08
Bonus: This position is not eligible for a bonus under the current bonus plan requirements. This position is eligible for commission under the current commission plan requirements.
Benefits: Full-time: We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes: medical, dental and vision insurance, paid holidays, vacation and sick time, company paid basic life insurance, voluntary life insurance, parental leave, 401k Plan (with a current employer match of 3%), flexible spending and health savings account options, and wellness offerings.
AEG reserves the right to change or modify the employee's job description whether orally or in writing, at any time during the employment relationship. AEG may require an employee to perform duties outside their normal description.
AEG's policy is to hire the most qualified applicants, and we comply with all applicable federal, state and local employment laws in making hiring and employee decisions. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of race, color, marital status, disability, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected status recognized by applicable federal, state or local law.
Employer does not offer work visa sponsorship for this position.

Apply