Share
If you’ve Googled “event planner job description,” chances are you’ve seen the same thing over and over again:
A block of buzzwords. A laundry list of duties. Zero insight into what actually makes someone great at the job.
And that’s the problem.
Most job descriptions don’t attract high-performing candidates — they repel them. Why? Because the best event planners aren’t looking for a checklist. They want to know what they’re stepping into. Who they’ll be working with. Why it matters. And what success actually looks like.
But when your job post sounds like it was copied from a government form, the most qualified candidates scroll right past.
Before we dive in, we recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ — especially if you’ve been relying on templates that aren’t converting. In it, we explain why generic job descriptions fail and how small changes in tone, structure, and transparency can dramatically improve the quality of applicants you attract.
The good news? Writing a great event planner job description doesn’t require you to be a copywriter or HR expert. You just need a better format — and a little intention behind it.
In this article, we’ll walk you through:
- What the role of an event planner really involves
- Two high-converting job post examples (one for experienced candidates, one for entry-level)
- A breakdown of why those posts work
- Common mistakes to avoid
- And a ready-to-use copy-paste version you can tailor in minutes
If you want your next event hire to be someone who actually delivers, this is where it starts.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What An Event Planner Actually Does - Their Roles
An event planner is more than someone who books venues and orders catering.
They’re the person who takes a vision — whether it’s a corporate retreat, a product launch, or a community fundraiser — and turns it into a smooth, memorable experience. They juggle moving parts, vendors, timelines, budgets, and last-minute surprises, all while keeping clients calm and guests impressed.
In short: they’re part producer, part project manager, part problem-solver — with a talent for making chaos look like choreography.
What makes a great event planner isn’t just technical skill. It’s emotional intelligence. It’s grace under pressure. It’s anticipating problems before they happen. And it’s caring deeply about the little details most people overlook.
That’s why your job description needs to reflect more than just tasks. It should attract someone who’s organized but flexible, confident but collaborative, creative but grounded in logistics.
In the next section, we’ll show you two sample job posts — one designed for experienced candidates, and one for people with potential you’re willing to train.
Two Great Event Planner Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.”
✅ Job Description for Experienced Event Planner
📌 Job Title:
Event Planner for High-Impact Corporate & Private Events | Thrive Events – Los Angeles, CA
💼 Full-Time | Hybrid (3 Days On-Site) | $65,000–$80,000/year + Performance Bonuses
🕒 Schedule:
Monday–Friday | Occasional evenings/weekends for major events
🎥 Meet Your Future Team
(Insert Loom or YouTube video of the Founder or Hiring Manager)
“We’re not just looking for someone to plan events. We’re looking for someone to own the experience — from first idea to final applause. If you’re detail-obsessed, thrive under pressure, and love the art of bringing people together, you’ll love it here.”
👋 Who We Are
Thrive Events is a boutique agency based in Los Angeles that produces premium events for tech startups, VCs, creative agencies, and lifestyle brands. From intimate investor dinners to multi-day leadership retreats, our events are known for their storytelling, hospitality, and meticulous execution.
We’ve worked with brands like Notion, Headspace, and Sweetgreen. We believe in planning with empathy, delivering with precision, and creating moments that people actually remember.
We’re a small, passionate team that works fast, communicates clearly, and treats every event like it matters—because it does.
🛠️ What You’ll Be Doing
As our lead event planner, you’ll own the planning and execution of high-end events across our client portfolio. You’ll manage timelines, budgets, vendors, and client expectations—ensuring smooth execution every step of the way. Your day-to-day will include:
- Creating and managing event timelines, budgets, and logistics
- Sourcing venues and vendors (AV, catering, design, security, etc.)
- Leading client meetings and weekly updates
- Producing run-of-show documents and floorplans
- Overseeing setup, strike, and day-of coordination
- Managing post-event wrap-ups and client reports
✅ What We’re Looking For
- 3+ years of professional event planning experience (agency or in-house)
- Excellent communication and organizational skills
- Comfortable owning multiple projects at once
- Creative thinker with strong attention to detail
- Experience with tools like Google Workspace, Asana, or HoneyBook
- Bonus if you’ve managed virtual or hybrid events
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This is the role for someone who wants ownership, autonomy, and visibility. You’ll work directly with decision-makers, lead marquee events, and be part of a team that values creative thinking and follow-through.
If you love turning a vague idea into a beautiful, impactful experience — and have the stamina to see it through — we’d love to meet you.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary + bonuses tied to event performance
- Health, dental & vision insurance (after 60 days)
- 15 paid days off + 8 paid holidays
- Hybrid schedule (with 3 on-site days)
- Quarterly offsites + monthly creative days
- Access to design and production tools (Canva Pro, Monday.com, etc.)
- Career growth path into Senior Producer or Director of Events
🤝 Our Hiring Process
We use WorkScreen to evaluate candidates fairly and efficiently. After you apply, you’ll complete a short skill-based evaluation. From there:
- Step 1: Review of your WorkScreen application
- Step 2: 30-minute Zoom interview
- Step 3: Paid take-home task or mock run-of-show
- Step 4: Final interview with the founder
We promise to keep you updated at every step.
📥 How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen:
👉[application link]
✅ Job Description for Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Event Planner
📌 Job Title:
Event Planning Assistant (No Experience Needed – Training Provided) | Rise & Gather Events – Atlanta, GA
💼 Full-Time | In-Person | $18–$22/hour + Promotion Path
🕒 Schedule:
Monday–Friday | 9 AM – 5 PM | Some evening/weekend event support
🎥 Meet the Team
(Insert Loom or YouTube video from the Operations Manager)
“We’re excited to welcome someone who’s just getting started. You’ll learn fast, gain real responsibility, and help us bring beautiful events to life—all while being supported every step of the way.”
👋 Who We Are
Rise & Gather Events is an Atlanta-based creative studio that plans soulful, story-driven events—from nonprofit galas to product launches and lifestyle experiences. We believe great events are built on trust, intention, and incredible teamwork.
Our work has been featured in Event Marketer, BizBash, and Design Milk. We’re a values-driven team that treats every event like a collaboration—not just a checklist.
🛠️ What You’ll Be Doing
You’ll assist our senior planners in bringing client events to life, from ideation through execution. If you’re a natural multitasker who loves being behind the scenes, this is for you. You’ll:
- Help manage project checklists, calendars, and task boards
- Communicate with vendors, venues, and clients
- Assist with setup, signage, and on-site event flow
- Attend site visits and help prepare for walkthroughs
- Create post-event reports and help with wrap-ups
- Learn to write timelines, budgets, and run-of-show documents
✅ What We’re Looking For
- High school diploma or equivalent
- A love for organizing, planning, and helping others
- Good communicator and quick learner
- Comfortable with tools like Google Docs or Notion
- Must be available for occasional evening/weekend events
✨ Nice to Have:
- Any event, hospitality, or volunteer experience
- Familiarity with Trello, Canva, or Airtable
Even if you don’t check every box — apply. We care more about energy and attitude than perfection.
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You won’t be grabbing coffee. You’ll be gaining real event experience and working directly with clients, vendors, and creative teams. We’re hiring for long-term potential—not just to fill a seat.
We’ll teach you everything we know. You’ll grow fast, take on more responsibility, and build a real career in the events industry.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Paid onboarding and training program
- Promotion path to Associate Event Planner within 6–12 months
- Paid time off (after 90 days)
- Flexible hours for school or family needs
- Monthly team lunches + occasional out-of-state events
- Access to event planning tools and local mentorship network
- Attendance at industry events and training sessions
🤝 Our Hiring Process
We use WorkScreen to make hiring fair and focused on real skills. After applying, you’ll complete a short evaluation. From there:
- Step 1: Review of your WorkScreen application
- Step 2: Phone interview
- Step 3: Paid shadow shift at a live event (2–3 hours)
- Step 4: Final debrief and offer
You’ll hear back from us either way.
📥 How to Apply
Apply now via WorkScreen:
👉 [application link]
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Breakdown of Why These Event Planner Job Posts Work
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Purpose-Driven
Both titles go beyond generic labels.
- “Event Planner for High-Impact Corporate & Private Events” immediately signals the type of events and the seniority level.
- “Event Planning Assistant (No Experience Needed – Training Provided)” makes it crystal clear that entry-level applicants are welcome — this widens the talent pool and encourages motivated but less experienced candidates to apply.
This level of clarity filters in the right people and filters out the wrong ones.
✅ 2. The Video Adds a Human Touch
Instead of hiding behind job boards, these posts invite candidates to meet the team right away. A short Loom or YouTube video:
- Builds trust and shows there are real humans behind the brand
- Helps candidates connect emotionally to the voice, tone, and energy of the team
- Makes your post stand out instantly compared to 99% of static listings
This is especially impactful for mission-driven or small teams.
✅ 3. The “Who We Are” Section Feels Real
Rather than using bland company boilerplate, the About section speaks directly to candidates:
- It names specific clients and project types
- It captures the company’s vibe, values, and work style
- It tells a mini story of who they are and what they care about
This helps candidates visualize what it would feel like to work there — not just what they’d be doing.
✅ 4. The Responsibilities Go Beyond Tasks — They Show Purpose
Instead of listing “event coordination” or “vendor outreach,” the job posts explain why each responsibility matters:
“You’ll manage post-event wrap-ups and client reports…” (This signals follow-through and client success.)
“You’ll help us bring client events to life…” (This connects task to mission.)
This approach helps candidates understand impact, not just activity.
✅ 5. The Requirements Are Thoughtful — Not Gatekeeping
In both versions, the requirements are split into must-haves and nice-to-haves. This makes the post more inclusive and welcoming.
The entry-level version is especially strong here — it invites people with passion and potential, not just polished resumes.
This helps attract hungry, values-aligned applicants who may be overlooked elsewhere.
✅ 6. Perks & Benefits Are Clearly Listed (and Realistic)
Each job post has its own Perks & Benefits section — not buried inside a paragraph.
- PTO, flexible hours, mentorship, growth path — they’re all spelled out
- Even lower-comp roles (like the assistant) show that the company values its team
Transparency here builds trust and shows the company is serious about employee experience.
✅ 7. The “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section Sells the Opportunity
These sections are well-written pitches.
They speak to:
- Growth opportunities
- Ownership and autonomy
- The kind of impact someone will have
They answer the question top candidates always ask: “Why should I care about this role?”
✅ 8. The Hiring Process Is Clear and Respectful
Instead of the generic “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted,” both posts explain:
- What tool is used (WorkScreen)
- What the steps are
- What to expect at each phase
- How soon candidates will hear back
This shows respect, builds credibility, and sets a positive tone from the start.
✅ 9. The Call to Action Is Motivating
“Apply now via WorkScreen” is clear, friendly, and action-oriented. It’s not a cold request — it feels like an invitation.
Plus, using a platform like WorkScreen signals that the company is committed to skill-based hiring, not just resume scanning.
Example of a Bad Event Planner Job Description (And Why It Fails)
📌 Job Title:
Event Coordinator
🏢 Company:
Confidential Company
💼 Full-Time | Location: New York, NY
Job Summary
We are looking for a detail-oriented Event Coordinator to manage and organize events for our company. The candidate will be responsible for planning logistics, coordinating vendors, and overseeing execution. The goal is to ensure events are successful and meet objectives.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate all event logistics
- Handle vendor and venue communications
- Manage budgets and timelines
- Ensure smooth execution on event day
- Prepare post-event reports
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Communications, or related field
- 2–3 years of experience in event planning
- Strong organizational skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication
- Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send a resume and cover letter to events@confidentialco.com. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
🧨 Why This Job Post Falls Short
❌ 1. The Job Title Is Vague and Uninspiring
“Event Coordinator” is a generic title that says nothing about the nature of the events or the company. It doesn’t clarify who the role is for, what kind of events they’d manage, or why the work matters.
❌ 2. There’s No Introduction or Hook
The post jumps straight into logistics without providing any context about the company, the team, or the mission behind the events. It lacks personality, purpose, or energy.
❌ 3. No Company Identity or Culture
The “About Us” section is missing entirely. There’s no indication of:
- What the company does
- What the work environment is like
- What kind of people succeed there
This makes the post feel anonymous and forgettable.
❌ 4. Responsibilities Are Overly Broad
Each task is listed generically:
“Coordinate all event logistics”
“Ensure smooth execution”
These could apply to any event role at any company. There’s no insight into tools, team collaboration, event types, or expectations.
❌ 5. No Perks or Benefits Mentioned
The post offers nothing in return. No salary range. No time off. No growth opportunities. No flexibility. This signals either disorganization or a lack of investment in team well-being — either way, it’s a red flag for top talent.
❌ 6. The Application Process Feels Cold
“Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted” is impersonal and discouraging.
There’s no timeline, no hiring steps, and no explanation of what to expect.
❌ 7. No Reason to Be Excited
Nowhere in this post does the company give the reader a reason to care. It treats hiring like a transaction — not a partnership. And in today’s hiring landscape, that’s a fast way to lose great candidates.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Description Stand Out
Even a well-structured job post can get overlooked if it misses a few key signals that today’s candidates care about. Here are bonus elements you can add to elevate your job description — and attract thoughtful, high-quality applicants.
✅ 1. Include a Security & Privacy Notice
With job scams on the rise, candidates are increasingly cautious about where they apply. A short statement like this builds immediate trust:
IMPORTANT: We take the security and privacy of applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information at any point in the hiring process.
This simple line shows professionalism and reassures candidates that your company is legitimate and respectful.
✅ 2. Mention Paid Time Off or Flex Days
Even in entry-level roles, candidates care about work-life balance. Adding a clear perk like this signals that you respect their need for rest and personal time:
Enjoy up to 15 days of paid time off, plus 8 paid holidays each year. We believe time to recharge is essential to doing great work.
If you offer flexible time off, use that as a selling point too. Even a few extra days can improve response quality.
✅ 3. Highlight Training, Mentorship, or Career Growth
Candidates want to know they’re not walking into a dead-end role. If you offer training or development, mention it clearly:
We invest in your growth. You’ll receive one-on-one mentorship, access to event planning courses, and a clear path to promotion within 6–12 months.
This is especially helpful in roles where you’re open to hiring for potential rather than polished experience.
✅ 4. Use a Loom or Video from the Hiring Manager
Don’t underestimate how powerful it is to put a face to the name. A short 30–60 second Loom video that says:
- Who you are
- What the role is
- Why you’re excited to hire for it
…can increase response rates and instantly build emotional connection. It shows your team is real, approachable, and proud of your culture.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
✅ 5. Add What to Expect in the First 30–90 Days
Top candidates don’t just want to know what they’ll be doing — they want to know how success is measured. A simple section like this adds clarity:
In your first 90 days, you’ll:
– Shadow 3–5 live events
– Lead a project meeting with a senior planner
– Create your first event run-of-show
– Complete internal training on client communication
This helps candidates visualize themselves succeeding — which increases their motivation to apply.
Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?
These days, it seems like every hiring platform — from Workable to Manatal — offers AI-generated job descriptions. Just type in a title, click a button, and boom: instant post.
But here’s the truth:
AI can help you write faster, but it can’t care about your brand, your team, or the kind of person you actually want to hire.
If you rely on AI alone, you’ll end up with a job post that sounds like everyone else’s: generic, vague, and forgettable.
❌ The Wrong Way to Use AI
If you prompt a chatbot with:
“Write me a job description for an Event Planner at a marketing company.”
You’ll probably get something like:
“We are looking for a detail-oriented event planner to coordinate and execute all company events…”
It’s technically correct — but emotionally empty.
It doesn’t reflect your culture.
It doesn’t show your values.
It doesn’t stand out.
And worst of all?
It attracts the wrong kind of candidates: people who are applying to any job, not your job.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI
AI works best when you give it raw ingredients — and let it help you shape or polish your ideas. Here’s how to prompt it well:
🔧 Try This Prompt:
“Help me write a job post for our company, Thrive Events. We’re hiring a full-time Event Planner to help manage high-end client events (product launches, leadership retreats, etc).
Our culture is creative, fast-paced, and detail-obsessed, and we value people who take ownership and think proactively.
We offer $65K–$80K salary, quarterly bonuses, 15 days PTO, hybrid schedule, and mentorship from senior producers.
Our hiring process includes a skills test through WorkScreen, followed by two interviews.
I’ve written these notes to guide the tone and focus: [paste notes here]
Now that’s something AI can work with.
🧠 Final Tip:
Use AI as a second brain, not a substitute for your own.
Let it reword, reorganize, or sharpen your message — but you need to bring the clarity, values, and voice.
A great job description starts with you.
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Copy-Paste Job Description Templates
We get it — sometimes you just need to move fast. Maybe you’ve already read this full guide and understand what a strong job post looks like… but you still want a solid foundation you can copy, paste, and tailor to your brand in minutes.
That’s exactly what this section is for.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Job Description (With “Why This Role Is a Great Fit”)
📌 Job Title:
Event Planner | [Company Name] – [City, State or Remote]
💼 Full-Time | [Hybrid/Remote/On-Site] | $[Salary Range] + Bonuses
🎥 Meet Your Future Team
(Insert Loom or YouTube video here)
“If you love creating meaningful experiences and have a knack for managing details without losing the big picture, this could be a great fit. We’re excited to meet someone who sees events not just as tasks, but as moments that matter.”
👋 Who We Are
[Company Name] is a [describe your company type — e.g., boutique event agency, in-house brand team, nonprofit organization] that creates [describe event types — e.g., product launches, internal conferences, community events] that feel intentional, polished, and memorable.
We care about collaboration, clear communication, and sweating the details — because we know that behind every great event is a planner who made it all look effortless (even though it wasn’t).
🛠️ What You’ll Be Doing
- Plan and execute a variety of in-person and/or virtual events
- Manage timelines, budgets, and vendor communication
- Develop run-of-show documents and contingency plans
- Oversee day-of logistics and team coordination
- Deliver post-event wrap-ups and client satisfaction checks
✅ What We’re Looking For
- [X+] years of experience in event planning or production
- Confident communicator and creative problem-solver
- Comfortable with project management tools like [e.g., Trello, Asana, Notion]
- Experience handling multiple events at once
- Bonus if you’ve worked on hybrid or international events
🌟 Why This Rol4e Is a Great Fit
If you’re looking for more ownership, more autonomy, and more creative range — this role delivers. You’ll work closely with clients, get support from a nimble team, and own events from ideation through execution.
We’re not here to micromanage. We’re here to collaborate — and build experiences people remember.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary + performance bonuses
- paid vacation days + [holiday policy]
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- [Remote/hybrid/in-office] flexibility
- Access to industry tools, trainings, or conferences
- [Any unique team perks like offsites, creative days, or stipends]
🤝 Our Hiring Process
We use WorkScreen to evaluate candidates based on real-world skills, not just resumes. After applying, you’ll complete a short task or simulation. If shortlisted, you’ll go through two rounds of interviews, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.
📥 How to Apply
Apply now via WorkScreen:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen link here]
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format (No Culture Pitch)
📌 Job Title:
Event Planner
Location: [City, State or Remote]
Employment Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $[Salary Range] + Benefits
🎥 Meet the Team
(Insert Loom or video link here)
“We’re hiring someone who thrives under pressure, loves timelines, and knows how to bring order to chaos. If that’s you, we’d love to hear from you.”
About the Company
[Company Name] is a [brief description: e.g., creative studio, SaaS company, nonprofit org] with a growing need for events that connect, engage, and inspire. From internal team events to client-facing activations, we’re looking for someone who can own the planning process and elevate the experience.
Job Brief
We’re seeking an Event Planner to join our team and manage the end-to-end execution of physical and/or virtual events. This role will report to [department or title] and work cross-functionally with marketing, operations, and external partners.
Responsibilities
- Develop event concepts in collaboration with internal stakeholders
- Create detailed project timelines, checklists, and budgets
- Book venues, vendors, and coordinate contracts
- Oversee setup, run-of-show, and teardown logistics
- Conduct post-event reporting and feedback analysis
- Communicate updates with leadership and support teams
Requirements
- [X+] years of experience planning events professionally
- Strong attention to detail and multitasking ability
- Ability to remain calm and responsive under pressure
- Proficient in event planning software and communication tools
- Willingness to work evenings or weekends as needed
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive base salary + bonus opportunities
- days paid time off + [X] paid holidays
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Flexible work options depending on event season
- Budget for professional development or certifications
- Company equipment and planning tools provided
Application Process
We use WorkScreen to streamline hiring and ensure a fair evaluation process. After applying, you’ll complete a short event-planning task. If selected, we’ll invite you to a virtual interview. All candidates will be contacted once a final decision is made.
📥 How to Apply
👉 Apply now via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step
Once you’ve written a thoughtful, clear, and engaging job description, the next challenge is filtering the noise — and quickly identifying who’s actually qualified.
That’s where WorkScreen comes in.
Instead of spending hours reviewing resumes or trying to decode cover letters, WorkScreen helps you:
✅ Quickly Spot Top Talent
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Assess Real-World Ability in One Click
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✅ Eliminate Low-Effort or AI-Generated Applications
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
✅ Save Time and Avoid Costly Hiring Mistakes
Every unqualified interview is time you’ll never get back. Every bad hire sets you (and your team) back months. WorkScreen helps you make faster, smarter, data-backed hiring decisions — without the manual legwork.
Ready to Hire Smarter?
Start by writing a job post you’re proud of.
Then let WorkScreen do the rest.
👉 Create a job post at WorkScreen.io and start evaluating your applicants the modern way — fairly, efficiently, and based on what actually matters.
Event Planner Job Description - Frequently Asked Questions
While the terms are often used interchangeably, there’s a subtle distinction:
- Event Planners typically focus on the preparation and design phase — selecting venues, booking vendors, managing budgets, and coordinating timelines. They’re responsible for ensuring everything is ready before the big day.
- Event Managers are more involved in on-site execution — managing staff, solving real-time issues, and making sure everything runs smoothly during the event itself.
In smaller teams, one person may do both. In larger organizations, these roles are often split.
Beyond organizational skills, great event planners tend to have:
- Strong communication – to liaise with vendors, clients, and internal teams
- Problem-solving ability – events rarely go 100% to plan
- Grace under pressure – calm and clear-headed in fast-paced environments
- Attention to detail – from timelines to signage to guest flow
- Creativity and flexibility – to handle curveballs and tailor experiences
- Tech fluency – basic familiarity with tools like Google Drive, Trello, Canva, or CRM/event software is a big plus
Soft skills matter just as much as experience — especially in roles where personality impacts client experience.
In the U.S., the average base salary for an event planner is around $50,000 to $65,000/year, according to data from Glassdoor, Payscale, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
However, this can vary widely based on:
- Location (urban centers like NYC or SF tend to pay more)
- Experience level
- Industry (corporate and agency roles often pay more than nonprofit)
- Scope of responsibility (someone handling strategy, client relationships, and budgeting may earn more than someone focused on logistics alone)
Freelancers and contract planners may also charge by event or by project, ranging from $500 to $10,000+ depending on complexity.
Some warning signs to watch out for:
- Vague descriptions of past work (“I’ve done a lot of events” without specifics)
- No understanding of budget management
- Over-focus on creativity with no mention of logistics
- Poor time management or last-minute communication
- Inflexibility — unwilling to adapt under pressure
Using skill assessments through tools like WorkScreen can help you identify strengths and gaps early on — before you commit to an interview.
