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Sports Event Planner Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Sports Event Planner information

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$12

$28

$41

How much do sports event planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports event planner in Iowa is $28.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a sports event planner do?

A Sports Event Planner is responsible for organizing and coordinating all aspects of sporting events, such as tournaments, matches, and fundraisers. Their duties include selecting venues, managing budgets, coordinating with vendors, securing permits, and handling logistics like transportation and accommodations. They also oversee event promotion and ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day of the event. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports event planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sports Event Planner, you need expertise in event management, budgeting, and logistics, often supported by a degree in event planning, sports management, or a related field. Familiarity with project management software, ticketing platforms, and event registration systems is typically required. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in coordinating multiple stakeholders and managing high-pressure situations. These skills ensure seamless event execution, positive attendee experiences, and successful outcomes for sporting events.

What are some of the main challenges sports event planners face when coordinating large-scale events?

Sports Event Planners often encounter challenges such as managing tight timelines, coordinating with multiple vendors and stakeholders, and adapting to unforeseen changes like weather disruptions or last-minute schedule adjustments. Ensuring smooth communication among security, logistics, marketing, and venue teams is crucial. Additionally, balancing the expectations of sponsors, athletes, and attendees while maintaining budget constraints requires strong organizational and negotiation skills.

What is the difference between Sports Event Planner vs Sports Marketing Coordinator?

AspectSports Event PlannerSports Marketing Coordinator
Primary FocusPlanning and executing sports eventsPromoting sports teams, events, and brands
Required SkillsEvent management, logistics, budgetingMarketing strategies, branding, communication
Work EnvironmentEvent venues, sports facilitiesAdvertising agencies, media outlets
Common EmployersSports teams, event companiesSports brands, marketing firms

While both roles operate within the sports industry, Sports Event Planners focus on organizing and managing sports events, ensuring smooth execution. Sports Marketing Coordinators concentrate on promoting sports entities and engaging audiences through marketing campaigns. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right career path in the sports industry.

Is being a sports event planner a good career?

A sports event planner coordinates and manages sporting events, requiring strong organizational, communication, and negotiation skills. The role often involves working long hours, managing budgets, and handling logistics, with job prospects influenced by the sports industry’s growth and event demand.

Is there a demand for sports event planners?

Sports event planners are in demand due to the growing popularity of sporting events and the need for professional coordination. The role requires strong organizational skills, knowledge of event management software, and the ability to handle logistics for large-scale events, which are increasingly sought after in the industry.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sports Event Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sports Event Planner job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,489 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Spring & Summer Event Management Internship

Iowa Sports Foundation

Ames, IA • On-site

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

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 – 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

Apply