Event Coordinator Salary in Chattanooga, TN
Event Coordinators in Chattanooga, TN, in 2026, earn approximately $17.21 per hour, which translates to about $688.40 per week, $2,983.07 per month, and $35,796.80 per year.
The demand for Event Coordinators in Chattanooga is growing positively at about 8% per year, indicating strong job prospects and increasing opportunities within the event planning and hospitality industries in this area.
How Much Does an Event Coordinator Make in Chattanooga, TN?
The salary of an Event Coordinator in Chattanooga varies based on experience and skills. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.14 | $605.60 | $2,616.53 | $31,398.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.21 | $688.40 | $2,983.07 | $35,796.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.57 | $782.80 | $3,391.07 | $40,705.60 |
Do Event Coordinators in Chattanooga Earn Tips?
Event Coordinators generally do not earn tips as their role primarily involves organizational and planning responsibilities behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is typically salary-based without additional tipping.
Event Coordinator Salary in Chattanooga vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Coordinators earn an average of around $21.77 per hour, which equates to approximately $45,281.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Event Coordinators in Chattanooga earn less, with an hourly rate of $17.21 and an annual salary of $35,796.80. This difference may reflect the lower cost of living in Chattanooga and regional market variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chattanooga for Event Coordinators
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay for Event Coordinators, including:
- Downtown Chattanooga: $18.50 per hour
- North Shore: $18.00 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods could offer higher salaries compared to the broader Chattanooga area.
What Influences an Event Coordinator’s Salary in Chattanooga?
Several factors strongly impact how much an Event Coordinator can earn in Chattanooga:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced coordinators with proven skills in event management and logistics tend to command higher salaries.
- Industry and Type of Events: Coordinators working for corporate clients or large-scale events often earn more than those managing smaller, local gatherings.
- Education and Certifications: Holding relevant credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can boost earnings significantly.
- Networking and Reputation: Strong industry connections and a history of successful events can lead to better job offers and higher pay.
How To Become an Event Coordinator in Chattanooga
Becoming an Event Coordinator in Chattanooga involves several key steps:
- Education: Pursue programs like the Event Planning Certificate at Chattanooga State Community College, which covers budgeting, marketing, and logistics essentials.
- Degree Options: Enrolling in Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga provides a comprehensive bachelor's education including event management courses.
- Certifications: Obtaining recognized certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) demonstrates professional expertise and can improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Event Coordinators in Chattanooga
Several major organizations in Chattanooga frequently seek qualified Event Coordinators, including:
- Unum
- Chattanooga Golf and Country Club
- The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
Establishments That Event Coordinators in Chattanooga Work At
Event Coordinators find opportunities across a variety of establishments such as:
- Hotels and Resorts: These venues often host weddings, conferences, and social events, typically offering higher salaries due to scale and complexity.
- Country Clubs and Golf Courses: Coordinating private events and tournaments here usually involves specialized skills and can come with competitive pay.
- Corporate Firms and Convention Centers: Managing large-scale professional events may offer robust compensation packages.
- Nonprofits and Community Organizations: Though these roles may offer modest pay, they provide valuable experience and community engagement opportunities.
The type of establishment has a direct impact on salary, with corporate and specialized venues generally providing better compensation than smaller or nonprofit entities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chattanooga for Event Coordinators
If you're interested in careers similar to Event Coordination, here are a few related roles you might consider:
These include Event Manager, Event Planner, and Event Coordinator roles, which involve various aspects of planning, organizing, and managing events with differing scopes and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Coordinators in Chattanooga
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is crucial for Event Coordinators to ensure compliance and proper handling of earnings.
- Visit the official website of the State of Tennessee for information on state labor laws, minimum wage requirements, and employment regulations.
- For federal labor law guidance and workplace standards, the U.S. Department of Labor’s official website is a valuable resource.