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Sports Event Management Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Sports Event Management information

See Iowa salary details

$24.9K

$58.9K

$94.4K

How much do sports event management jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for sports event management in Iowa is $58,924.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,300.00 and $70,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sports event management?

Sports event management involves planning, organizing, and executing sporting events of all sizes, from local competitions to international tournaments. Professionals in this field handle logistics such as venue selection, scheduling, marketing, sponsorship, ticket sales, and coordination with athletes, teams, and officials. The goal is to ensure that events run smoothly, safely, and provide a positive experience for participants and spectators. Careers in sports event management can range from working with sports teams and leagues to employment with venues or event planning agencies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in sports event management?

To excel in Sports Event Management, you need expertise in event planning, budgeting, logistics, and a relevant degree such as sports management or hospitality. Familiarity with event management software, ticketing platforms, and safety compliance certifications is commonly required. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help professionals coordinate teams and manage unexpected challenges. These capabilities are vital for ensuring seamless event execution, attendee satisfaction, and the overall success of sporting events.

What are some common challenges faced in sports event management, and how can professionals effectively address them?

Sports event managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating logistics for large crowds, ensuring safety and security, managing multiple vendors, and handling last-minute changes. Effective communication, detailed planning, and adaptability are crucial for overcoming these obstacles. Building strong relationships with stakeholders, using project management tools, and having contingency plans in place help ensure the event runs smoothly. Collaboration with team members and clear delegation of responsibilities also play a key role in successfully managing sports events.

What is the difference between Sports Event Management vs Sports Marketing?

AspectSports Event ManagementSports Marketing
Required CredentialsEvent planning certifications, degree in sports management or related fieldsMarketing certifications, degrees in marketing or communications
Work EnvironmentEvent venues, stadiums, sports organizationsAdvertising agencies, sports brands, media companies
Employer & Industry UsageSports teams, event organizers, stadiumsSports brands, media outlets, sponsorship firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Sports Event Management focuses on planning, organizing, and executing sports events, ensuring smooth operations. Sports Marketing involves promoting sports teams, events, or brands to increase visibility and engagement. While both roles are integral to the sports industry, they differ in focus: event management centers on logistics, whereas marketing emphasizes promotion and branding.

What careers can I do with sports event management?

With sports event management skills, you can pursue careers such as sports event coordinator, facility manager, marketing and sponsorship manager, operations director, or sports marketing specialist. These roles involve planning, organizing, and executing sporting events, often requiring skills in logistics, communication, and familiarity with event management tools. Certifications like the Certified Sports Event Executive (CSEE) can enhance job prospects.

What does a sports event management do in sports?

A sports event management professional plans, coordinates, and oversees all aspects of sporting events, including logistics, scheduling, vendor coordination, and ensuring safety protocols. They work with teams, venues, and stakeholders to deliver successful events and often use project management skills and industry-specific tools. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sports Event Management jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Sports Event Management jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Sports Event Management jobs in Iowa?

For Sports Event Management jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sports Event Management jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Sports Event Management jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Sports Event Management jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Sports Event Management job openings:

Infographic showing various Sports Event Management job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,924 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Spring & Summer Event Management Internship

Iowa Sports Foundation

Ames, IA โ€ข On-site

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Company Description

The Iowa Sports Foundation (ISF) provides sports, recreation, health, and wellness opportunities for Iowans of all abilities. Comprising the Iowa Games, Live Healthy Iowa, Adaptive Sports Iowa, Iowa Senior Games, and the Iowa Corporate Games, ISF has been offering events and programs that benefit participants of all ages and abilities for over 30 years. The foundation's most well-known brand is the Iowa Games, which, along with other events, draws thousands of participants annually. ISF is powered by a dedicated 33-member board that ensures the success and growth of its programs.


Role Description

Spring & Summer Event Management Internship: Mid- January โ€“ July 31 (starting and ending dates negotiable) | Full-time (30 + hours per week, hours flexible in Winter/Spring months), located in Ames, IA. The intern will assist in planning, organizing, and managing the Winter Iowa Games, Iowa Senior Games, Summer Iowa Games, and Des Moines Corporate Games. Responsibilities include event planning, coordination, execution, and post-event evaluation. The intern will also be involved in marketing efforts and communications, ensuring successful outreach and promotion of the events. Additional tasks include training and supervising volunteers and staff, and assisting with logistical arrangements.


Qualifications

  • Skills in Event Planning and Event Management
  • Strong Communication and Marketing skills
  • Experience with Training and supervising volunteers and staff
  • Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities
  • Ability to work on-site in Ankeny, IA, and manage time effectively
  • Passion for sports and recreational activities is desirable
  • Pursuing or holding a degree in Event Management, Sports Management, Marketing, or a related field


Other Perks:

Paid stipend

Paid mileage for any travel to and from events

Have fun while building your resume

Meet new people and network with Des Moines area businesses


Deadline: Open until filled


How to apply: 

Email a resume, cover letter and contact information for three references. Please indicate which internship and semester you are applying for in the subject line of your email.


Submit to: 

TJ Schnurr / Sports & Competitions Coordinator

tj.schnurr@iowasportsfoundation.org

888.777.8881 x 711