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Temporary Event Manager Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Catering Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Catering Manager Salary: $80,000 - $85,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Become part of Restaurant ... Direct, brief, and coach regular, union, and temporary staff during events, ensuring clear ...

Catering Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $850K/yr

Catering Manager Salary: $80,000 - $85,0000 Other Forms of Compensation: Become part of Restaurant ... Direct, brief, and coach regular, union, and temporary staff during events, ensuring clear ...

TEMP-General Cleaner- Kaiser Capitol Hill - Washington, DC Job Summary: PMM Companies is seeking a ... Manager. * Assist with setting up and cleaning up after events or meetings. * Follow established ...

Showing results 41-60

Temporary Event Manager information

See Washington salary details

$30K

$71.1K

$113.8K

How much do temporary event manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for temporary event manager in Washington is $71,052.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $84,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary event manager?

Temporary Event Managers are professionals hired on a short-term or contract basis to plan, coordinate, and oversee events such as conferences, festivals, corporate functions, or weddings. They are responsible for managing event logistics, vendors, budgets, and ensuring the event runs smoothly. These roles often require flexibility, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under pressure, as events usually have strict deadlines and unique challenges. Temporary Event Managers may work independently or as part of a larger team, depending on the size and complexity of the event.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Event Manager, you need strong organizational abilities, problem-solving skills, and experience in event planning, often supported by a relevant degree or certification in event management. Familiarity with event management software, budgeting tools, and registration platforms is typically required. Excellent communication, adaptability, and leadership are standout soft skills for coordinating teams and handling unexpected challenges. These skills ensure seamless event execution, client satisfaction, and the ability to respond effectively in fast-paced, dynamic environments.

What are some common challenges faced by temporary event managers, and how can they be addressed?

Temporary Event Managers often face challenges such as quickly adapting to new teams, managing tight deadlines, and coordinating logistics in unfamiliar venues. To overcome these challenges, it's important to be highly organized, maintain open communication with all stakeholders, and remain flexible in problem-solving. Building strong relationships with vendors and on-site staff early on can also help ensure smoother event execution and address issues proactively.

What is the difference between Temporary Event Manager vs Event Coordinator?

AspectTemporary Event ManagerEvent Coordinator
CredentialsRelevant experience, certifications like CMP or CSEP often preferredSimilar credentials, often entry-level or related certifications
Work EnvironmentTemporary, project-based, fast-paced eventsLonger-term planning, multiple events or ongoing projects
Employer & Industry UsageEvent planning companies, corporate clients, festivalsEvent venues, nonprofits, corporate event teams

Temporary Event Managers focus on short-term, project-specific event execution, often requiring quick adaptation and specialized skills. Event Coordinators handle broader planning and logistics over longer periods, supporting multiple events. Both roles require strong organizational skills, but their scope and duration differ significantly.

Are temporary event managers in high demand?

Temporary event managers are in moderate demand, especially during peak seasons and for large-scale events such as conferences, festivals, and corporate gatherings. Employers seek candidates with strong organizational skills, experience in event planning, and the ability to work flexible hours, making these roles competitive but available for qualified professionals.

How to become a temporary event manager with no experience?

To become a temporary event manager with no experience, start by gaining basic organizational and communication skills through volunteering or assisting with small events. Consider obtaining relevant certifications such as event planning or hospitality courses, and seek entry-level roles or internships to build practical experience in event coordination and management. Familiarity with event management tools and the ability to work under pressure are also valuable.

What are popular job titles related to Temporary Event Manager jobs in Washington?

For Temporary Event Manager jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Temporary Event Manager jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Temporary Event Manager jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Temporary Event Manager jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Temporary Event Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Temporary Event Manager job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,052 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

Catering Manager

Restaurant Associates

Washington, DC • On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Restaurant Associates rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 239 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 68 rated caterers


Job description

Position Title: Catering Manager 

Salary: $80,000 - $85,000

Other Forms of Compensation:  

Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry’s leading provider of dining and event catering for some of the nation's most prestigious museums, performing arts centers and corporations! Voted Glassdoor's Employee Choice AwardsBest Places to Work, This is R/A !

Job Summary
Restaurant Associates is seeking experienced, service-focused Catering Managers to support the World Bank Group’s Washington, D.C. campus. Reporting to the Director of Catering, this role partners closely with catering leadership, culinary teams, and campus stakeholders to plan and execute meetings, conferences, executive functions, and high-profile events in a fast-paced, international setting.
 
This position offers a primarily Monday–Friday schedule with most holidays off, along with occasional early mornings, evenings, or weekends based on event needs and major meeting periods.
 
Key Responsibilities
  • Manage assigned events from initial planning through execution, including billing, documentation, and post-event follow-up to ensure accuracy and client satisfaction
  • Maintain detailed and accurate banquet event orders, including timelines, guest counts, menus, dietary needs, staffing plans, equipment, and service requirements
  • Serve as the on-site operational lead, coordinating event setup, culinary timing, service execution, breakdown, and real-time adjustments
  • Build and maintain responsive, professional communication with clients, meeting organizers, and internal partners throughout the event lifecycle
  • Partner with catering leadership, culinary teams, and campus service groups to ensure seamless coordination across multiple events and locations
  • Direct, brief, and coach regular, union, and temporary staff during events, ensuring clear expectations, service standards, and effective execution
  • Develop event-specific staffing plans that align labor with guest counts, service style, complexity, and financial goals
  • Monitor event costs, including labor, food, and equipment, while accurately capturing billable items and changes
  • Use EMS and related systems to support scheduling, planning, reporting, invoicing, and recordkeeping
  • Anticipate operational challenges, resolve routine service issues, and escalate more complex concerns related to client experience, safety, or execution
  • Uphold Restaurant Associates standards for hospitality, presentation, food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety
  • Support large-scale meetings, tastings, training initiatives, and continuous improvement efforts
What We’re Looking For
  • Experience in catering, banquets, conference services, or event operations within a hospitality or foodservice environment
  • Proven ability to manage multiple events simultaneously while maintaining strong attention to detail and meeting deadlines
  • Hands-on leadership experience directing event teams and managing live event execution
  • Working knowledge of event logistics, staffing, service flow, setup, breakdown, and billing processes
  • Strong client-service mindset with effective communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
  • Comfort using event management systems and Microsoft Office tools
  • Ability to stay composed, adaptable, and solution-oriented in a high-volume, time-sensitive environment
  • Flexibility to support early mornings, evenings, weekends, or extended hours when required
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in high-volume, corporate, or complex catering environments
  • Familiarity working with union teams or on-call/temporary staffing models
  • Experience supporting executive, VIP, diplomatic, or international events
  • Knowledge of EMS, Tripleseat, CaterTrax, Delphi, or similar systems
  • Relevant certifications (e.g., ServSafe, responsible alcohol service) or willingness to obtain
  • Additional language skills or experience supporting a diverse client base
 

Apply to Restaurant Associates today!

Restaurant Associates is a member of Compass Group USA

Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story

  

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. 

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Associates at Restaurant Associates are offered many fantastic benefits.

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Personal Leave

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Restaurant Associates maintains a drug-free workplace.

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_RA.pdf

Req ID:  1545494

Restaurant Associates 

Michael Abbey 

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What Restaurant Associates employees say

Pay

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Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Restaurant Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

A chef-driven company with a mission to deliver hospitality excellence. Since the very beginning, we’ve delivered culinary quality and innovation coupled with unparalleled hospitality to some of the most recognizable companies, institutions, and brands in the world. At R/A, food is inspiration. Our reputation is built on our ability to continuously evolve and innovate. Our work goes beyond the excellence of our food and hospitality. It extends to industry-best wellness and sustainability practices and a commitment to integrating human-centered technology.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US