Event Coordinator Salary in Des Moines, IA
Event Coordinators in Des Moines, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $19.81 per hour, which translates to about $792.40 per week, $3,433.73 per month, and $41,204.80 per year.
The job market for Event Coordinators is growing positively at a rate of 8% per year, indicating increased demand for professionals skilled in organizing and managing various types of events in the Des Moines region.
How Much Does an Event Coordinator Make in Des Moines, IA?
The salary of an Event Coordinator in Des Moines depends on factors such as experience and the type of events coordinated. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels to provide a clearer picture.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.32 | $652.80 | $2,825.60 | $33,753.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.81 | $792.40 | $3,433.73 | $41,204.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.05 | $962.00 | $4,162.13 | $49,984.00 |
Do Event Coordinators in Des Moines Earn Tips?
Event Coordinators typically do not earn tips as their roles focus on planning and managing events rather than direct customer service at the event. Their income primarily comes from their salary or hourly wage.
Event Coordinator Salary in Des Moines vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Coordinators earn an average of about $21.76 per hour, which equates to roughly $45,260.80 annually.
Comparing this to Des Moines, Event Coordinators earn slightly less at $19.81 per hour and $41,204.80 per year. This difference may be influenced by local economic factors, cost of living, and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Event Coordinators
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Event Coordinators:
- Downtown Des Moines: $20.50 per hour
- West Des Moines: $21.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to West Des Moines might find higher pay opportunities compared to downtown, but both areas provide solid wages for Event Coordinators.
What Influences a Event Coordinator’s Salary in Des Moines?
Several key factors impact the salary of an Event Coordinator in the Des Moines area:
- Experience Level: Coordinators with more years in event planning typically command higher wages due to refined skills and industry knowledge.
- Event Type and Size: Managing larger, corporate, or high-profile events can lead to higher pay compared to smaller social gatherings.
- Education and Certifications: Holding certifications like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can lead to salary increases.
- Employer Type: Working for large companies, convention centers, or specialized event firms often pays more than smaller agencies or freelance coordinating.
- Skill Set: Strong organizational, negotiation, and multitasking skills improve coordination effectiveness and salary potential.
How To Become a Event Coordinator in Des Moines
Interested in pursuing a career as an Event Coordinator in Des Moines? Here are several key steps to help you begin:
- Complete Relevant Education: Enroll in programs like the Event Management Certificate at Des Moines Area Community College for comprehensive event planning training including budgeting and logistics.
- Consider a Degree Program: A bachelor's degree in hospitality or event management, such as the Hospitality Management Program at Iowa State University, provides a strong foundation covering courses on hospitality law and venue management.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) demonstrate advanced expertise and can enhance job opportunities.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level roles in event companies offer valuable hands-on learning experiences.
Top Employers Hiring Event Coordinators in Des Moines
The following prominent organizations in Des Moines frequently seek skilled Event Coordinators:
- Principal Financial Group
- Meredith Corporation
- Nationwide Insurance
- Wells Fargo
Establishments That Event Coordinators in Des Moines Work At
Event Coordinators in Des Moines find employment in a variety of settings, which influence their salary potential:
- Corporate Offices and Financial Institutions: These often hold large events requiring professional coordination, offering competitive salaries.
- Convention Centers and Hotels: Coordinating conferences or weddings can provide steady work and vary in pay depending on the event scale.
- Event Planning Firms: Working for specialized companies may include diverse event types and potentially higher earnings based on client caliber.
- Non-Profit Organizations and Community Centers: Often offer unique events with occasional positions that might pay less but provide meaningful experiences.
The type of establishment can significantly impact salary with corporate and large venue coordinators typically earning more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Event Coordinators
If you're interested in careers similar to Event Coordinators, consider the following related roles, which involve overlapping skills and responsibilities:
These include Event Manager, Event Planner, and Concierge roles, all of which share coordination, planning, or hospitality skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Coordinators in Des Moines
Understanding labor laws and taxes is important for Event Coordinators to manage their careers effectively in Des Moines.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for guidance on workers' rights and regulations.
- The State of Iowa's workforce development agency provides valuable resources on employment standards specific to Iowa.
- For local regulations and resources, refer to the City of Des Moines official website.