Event Coordinator Salary in Portland, ME
Event Coordinators in Portland, ME, in 2025, earn approximately $23.67 per hour, which translates to about $946.80 per week, $4,102.80 per month, and $49,233.60 per year.
The demand for Event Coordinators in Portland is growing positively at about 8% per year, reflecting an increasing need for skilled professionals to organize and manage events in this vibrant city.
How Much Does an Event Coordinator Make in Portland, ME?
The salary of an Event Coordinator in Portland can vary depending on experience and the type of events handled. Here's a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.12 | $764.80 | $3,301.87 | $39,782.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.67 | $946.80 | $4,102.80 | $49,233.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.30 | $1,172.00 | $5,058.67 | $60,944.00 |
Do Event Coordinators in Portland Earn Tips?
Event Coordinators generally do not earn tips as their compensation is typically salary-based or hourly wages without direct gratuities from clients or event guests.
Event Coordinator Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Coordinators earn an average of around $21.52 per hour, translating to about $44,761.60 per year.
When compared to the national average, Event Coordinators in Portland earn slightly more, at about $23.67 per hour and $49,233.60 annually, which may reflect local market demand and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Event Coordinators
Nearby areas offer varying pay scales for Event Coordinators:
- New Gloucester: $28.10 per hour
- South Portland: $24.09 per hour
Those willing to commute to New Gloucester could potentially earn significantly higher wages compared to Portland itself.
What Influences an Event Coordinator’s Salary in Portland?
Several key factors affect an Event Coordinator's salary in Portland, ME:
- Experience and Expertise: Coordinators with extensive experience or a specialization in particular event types tend to command higher salaries.
- Event Size and Complexity: Managing large-scale, high-profile events often results in increased pay compared to simpler, smaller events.
- Type of Employer: Event Coordinators working for large venues, corporations, or specialized event planning firms typically earn more than those at smaller agencies or non-profit organizations.
- Certifications and Education: Holding industry-recognized certifications or relevant degrees can boost earning potential.
- Networking and Local Demand: Strong local networks and a robust market for events in Portland help skilled Coordinators negotiate better compensation.
How To Become an Event Coordinator in Portland
Starting a career as an Event Coordinator in Portland, ME, involves several steps to build the necessary skills and credentials.
Consider pursuing targeted education programs such as the Event Planning Certificate at University of Southern Maine, which offers comprehensive training in logistics, budgeting, and marketing.
Associate degree programs like Hospitality and Tourism Management at Southern Maine Community College also provide relevant coursework in hospitality management and customer service.
Obtaining professional certifications can further enhance your profile. Popular certifications include the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) by the Events Industry Council and the Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) by the Society of Government Meeting Professionals, especially useful for Coordinators working with government events.
Gaining real-world experience through internships or entry-level positions is equally important to develop practical skills in event coordination.
Top Employers Hiring Event Coordinators in Portland
Several prominent employers in Portland, ME, actively seek skilled Event Coordinators:
- Maine Medical Center
- University of Southern Maine
- Unum
Establishments That Event Coordinators in Portland Work At
Event Coordinators in Portland typically work in a variety of establishments including:
- Hotels and Conference Centers: These venues offer opportunities to manage a range of events from weddings to corporate gatherings, often providing competitive salaries.
- Non-Profit Organizations: Coordinators manage fundraising and community events, where compensation may be moderate but the role is impactful.
- Corporate Event Planners: Companies hosting product launches or meetings frequently employ Coordinators who can earn higher wages based on event scale and budget.
- Specialty Event Planning Firms: These provide tailored event solutions and often pay more due to the expertise required.
Different settings influence salary levels depending on the complexity and prestige of events, with corporate and large hotel environments generally offering the highest earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Event Coordinators
If you're interested in careers related to Event Coordination, consider exploring these roles:
These include Event Planner, Event Manager, and Event Coordinator itself, reflecting a spectrum of responsibilities within the event management field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Coordinators in Portland
Event Coordinators should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Maine to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Visit the official Maine government website for comprehensive state labor regulations including minimum wage and work hour guidelines.
- For overarching federal labor laws and related information, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website.