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Event Planner Job Description 2024

An Event Planner (sometimes referred to as an Event Organizer) is responsible for planning, designing and organizing events. This can include selecting venues, creating themes, managing budgets and coordinating with vendors. 

We’ve created six Event Planner job descriptions you can use to find the most qualified applicants to organize your particular type of event.

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1. Event Planner Job Description Template

Use our example job description for an Event Planner to create your job listing and outline the relevant responsibilities, skills and qualifications for the role. 

This template can be used for various event planning roles, whether for in-house positions at hotels and event organizing companies or for freelance work. Download the PDF or Word version to customize it based on your specific needs.

Event Planner Job Overview

Get This Job Description

[Client/Company Name] is hiring a detail-oriented and dynamic Event Planner to join our team in [Location]. In this role, you’ll be responsible for planning and coordinating corporate events that vary in size and scope throughout the year, delivering memorable experiences for clients and attendees alike. 

From the initial planning stages to the final execution, you will play a pivotal role in creating events that align with client objectives and company standards, ensuring each occasion is flawlessly managed.

Salary: $60,000–$65,000 per year

Benefits: 401(k) with 5% company match, paid time off and sick days, career growth opportunities, flexible spending account, health savings account, quarterly performance-based bonus, employee discounts, commuter benefits

Schedule: This full-time position typically follows standard business hours with occasional evenings and weekends required, depending on event schedules.

Responsibilities

  • Schedule and coordinate meetings with clients and vendors to discuss event details and expectations
  • Build a professional network, negotiate contracts with vendors and suppliers and secure favorable terms
  • Track and meet critical event preparation milestones, ensuring each phase of planning stays on schedule
  • Supervise on-site event activities and manage event staff to guarantee a seamless experience
  • Provide exceptional customer service, addressing client needs and concerns promptly and effectively

Experience and Skills

  • At least two years of experience in event planning or a related field
  • Proven ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with strong organizational, communication and time management skills
  • Creativity, problem-solving aptitude and an eye for detail to deliver high-quality events
  • Familiarity with industry trends, popular venues and reputable suppliers
  • Proficiency with relevant event management software and tools
  • Foreign language proficiency is a plus.

Education and Certifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in business, project management, hospitality or a related discipline is highly preferred.
  • Certification in event planning or project management is also a plus.
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2. Wedding Planner Job Description Template

This Wedding Planner job description template can be used to craft a job listing that highlights the essential responsibilities, skills and qualifications for a successful career in wedding planning.

Wedding Planner Job Overview

[Client/Company Name] is looking for an experienced and creative Wedding Planner to join our team in [Location]. In this role, you will oversee the entire wedding planning process, from early consultations to day-of coordination, ensuring that every event is seamless, memorable and tailored to meet each couple’s vision. 

Working with diverse clients, you’ll be responsible for turning dreams into reality and managing all the details that create unforgettable wedding celebrations.

Salary: $60,000–$70,000 per year
Benefits: 401(k) with 5% company match, paid time off and sick days, career growth opportunities, flexible spending account, health savings account, quarterly performance-based bonus, employee discounts, commuter benefits
Schedule: [Full-time, part-time or project-based]

Responsibilities

  • Schedule consultations with couples to understand their wedding vision, preferences and budget
  • Build a network of trusted vendors and negotiate contracts to secure services at favorable terms
  • Plan and coordinate the logistics of wedding ceremonies and receptions, ensuring all aspects align with client expectations
  • Manage wedding day activities, providing on-site coordination and directing staff for seamless event execution
  • Offer personalized support to clients, addressing last-minute changes, concerns and requests professionally

Experience and Skills

  • At least two years of experience in wedding or event planning, with a portfolio of successful events
  • Exceptional communication organizational and time management skills to handle multiple weddings simultaneously
  • Creativity and problem-solving skills, with a strong eye for detail to deliver high-quality, memorable events
  • Knowledge of wedding industry trends, popular venues and reliable suppliers
  • Proficiency in wedding planning and management software
  • Foreign language proficiency is a plus.

Education and Certifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in event management, hospitality, business or a related field is preferred.
  • Certification in wedding planning or event planning is highly preferred.

3. Event Designer Job Description Template

Although “Event Designer” and “Event Planner” are often used interchangeably, they’re not always the same. Event design focuses mainly on crafting the visual and thematic elements of an event. 

In some cases, however, an Event Planner may also serve as the Event Designer, especially in smaller or more personalized projects. This template is ideal for roles requiring expertise in customized themes, elaborate floral designs and other highly tailored aesthetics.

Event Designer Job Overview

[Client/Company Name] is searching for a creative and detail-oriented Event Designer to join our team in [Location]. In this role, you’ll be responsible for designing visually captivating and thematically cohesive events, ensuring every detail aligns with the client’s vision. 

From conceptual development through to execution, you’ll create immersive experiences that leave lasting impressions, working closely with Event Planners and Managers, vendors and other specialists to bring the design vision to life.

Salary: $65,000–$75,000 per year
Benefits: 401(k) with 5% company match, paid time off and sick days, career growth opportunities, flexible spending account, health savings account, quarterly performance-based bonus, employee discounts, commuter benefits
Schedule: [Full-time, part-time or project-based]

Responsibilities

  • Meet with clients to discuss their vision, theme and design preferences for the event
  • Develop and present design concepts, including mood boards, sketches and digital renderings, that align with client expectations
  • Collaborate with vendors and secure contracts with florists, decorators and other suppliers to bring the design concept to life
  • Oversee on-site setup and ensure the event design is executed seamlessly and accurately
  • Work alongside Event Planners and other team members to align the event’s logistics and visual elements, delivering an immersive experience

Experience and Skills

  • At least three years of experience in event design or a related creative field
  • Strong creative vision with excellent organizational and time management skills to manage multiple design projects simultaneously
  • Proficiency with design software, such as Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp and other CAD tools
  • A deep understanding of industry trends, including floral design, lighting, decor and custom theming
  • Strong communication skills to clearly convey design ideas to clients and collaborate with team members

Education and Certifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in design, fine arts, event management or a related field is preferred.
  • Certification in event design or floral design is a plus.

4. Party Planner Job Description Template

Another Event Planner subtype is the Party Planner, who specializes in creating unique experiences tailored to their clients’ preferences.

Use this Party Planner job description template to attract qualified candidates to plan and execute memorable festivities that range from small private gatherings to large-scale celebrations. 

Party Planner Job Overview

[Client/Company Name] is looking for an enthusiastic and organized Party Planner to join our team in [Location]. In this role, you’ll oversee the planning and coordination of various parties and social events, ensuring each one is customized to meet clients’ unique preferences. 

From initial concept development to final execution, you’ll be responsible for making every celebration unforgettable, handling all aspects of event logistics and design.

Salary: $55,000–$65,000 per year
Benefits: 401(k) with 5% company match, paid time off and sick days, career growth opportunities, flexible spending account, health savings account, quarterly performance-based bonus, employee discounts, commuter benefits
Schedule: [Full-time, part-time or project-based]

Responsibilities

  • Meet with clients to discuss their ideas, themes and preferences for the party
  • Plan and coordinate all aspects of the event, including theme development, venue selection and decor
  • Build a network of reliable vendors and negotiate contracts for catering, entertainment and other event services
  • Manage the event’s setup and supervise activities on the day to ensure smooth execution
  • Provide exceptional customer service, addressing client requests and concerns throughout the planning process

Experience and Skills

  • At least two years of experience in party planning, event coordination or a related field
  • Strong organizational, time management and multitasking skills to handle multiple events simultaneously
  • Creativity and attention to detail, with the ability to bring clients’ visions to life
  • Excellent communication and negotiation skills for vendor management and client interactions
  • Proficiency with event planning software and tools

Education and Certifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in event management, hospitality, business or a related field is preferred.
  • Certification in event planning is highly preferred.

5. Corporate Event Planner Job Description Template

Use our Corporate Event Planner job description template to attract top-tier candidates for managing and executing professional events such as inter-company conferences, internal company events, brand launches and product showcases. 

This role requires a blend of strategic planning and logistical expertise to create impactful corporate gatherings.

Corporate Event Planner Job Overview

[Company Name] is seeking a highly organized and strategic Corporate Event Planner to join our team in [Location]. In this role, you’ll oversee the planning and execution of various corporate events, from internal team-building activities to large-scale product launches. 

Your work will be essential in creating high-quality experiences that align with our brand objectives and meet business goals, ensuring each event leaves a lasting impression.

Salary: $70,000–$80,000 per year
Benefits: 401(k) with 5% company match, paid time off and sick days, career growth opportunities, flexible spending account, health savings account, quarterly performance-based bonus, employee discounts, commuter benefits
Schedule: Standard business hours with flexibility for evenings and weekends as needed, based on event schedules

Responsibilities

  • Coordinate and schedule meetings with internal stakeholders to understand event goals, requirements and budget
  • Plan and manage all logistics of corporate events, including vendor selection, venue booking and program scheduling
  • Build and maintain relationships with suppliers, negotiating contracts and securing favorable terms for services and products
  • Track event progress to meet preparation milestones, ensuring all planning phases are timely and organized
  • Oversee on-site event execution, providing leadership and direction to event staff and troubleshooting any issues that arise
  • Evaluate event outcomes and prepare post-event reports to measure success against objectives and gather insights for future events

Experience and Skills

  • At least three years of experience in corporate event planning or a similar role
  • Strong organizational, project management and communication skills, with the ability to handle high-stakes, high-visibility events
  • Familiarity with corporate event trends, industry standards and best practices
  • Ability to negotiate effectively and build positive relationships with vendors and suppliers
  • Proficiency with event management software and tools
  • Foreign language proficiency is a plus.

Education and Certifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in business, project management, hospitality or a related field is preferred
  • Certification in event planning or corporate event management is highly preferred

6. Assistant Event Planner Job Description Template

Use our Assistant Event Planner job description template to find qualified candidates for entry-level roles or internships in event planning. 

This template is ideal for hiring emerging professionals who are enthusiastic about gaining hands-on experience in the event planning industry.

Assistant Event Planner Job Overview

[Company Name] is hiring an organized and proactive Assistant Event Planner to join our team in [Location]. This role is perfect for someone starting their career in event planning, providing support to senior planners in managing various event logistics. 

As an Assistant Event Planner, you’ll help with the setup, coordination and execution of events, gaining valuable experience in the field and building essential skills for your career.

Salary: $15–$20 per hour
Benefits: Paid time off, hands-on training and mentorship, career growth opportunities, employee discounts, commuter benefits
Schedule: Flexible hours with the possibility of evening and weekend shifts depending on event schedules

Responsibilities

  • Assist in scheduling and coordinating meetings with clients, vendors and team members to support event planning needs
  • Help with event logistics, including venue setup, decor and ensuring all event supplies are prepared
  • Support the senior event planners in tracking event timelines and meeting preparation milestones
  • Provide on-site support during events, managing basic tasks and addressing last-minute requests
  • Maintain clear and professional communication with clients and vendors, offering assistance as directed by senior planners

Experience and Skills

  • Experience in handling events for school clubs/organizations is highly preferred but not required.
  • Previous experience in a customer service or administrative role is also a plus.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask and work in fast-paced environments
  • Good communication skills and a positive attitude toward teamwork and learning
  • Attention to detail and a proactive approach to supporting event logistics
  • Basic familiarity with event planning software is an advantage.

Education and Certifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent 
  • Degree or ongoing studies in event management, hospitality or a related field are a plus.
  • Certification in event planning is a bonus but not necessary.

What To Include in Your Event Planner Job Description Sections

Read on for more examples of each section and tips on how to write your job description.

Event Planner Responsibilities

A standard Event Planner job description typically covers the responsibilities listed below, but keep in mind that specific duties may vary depending on the type of event planning role. 

Below are some of the more general Event Planner tasks and responsibilities. As mentioned earlier, you can always customize these to reflect the unique requirements of your organization or the specific types of events your Event Planner will manage, such as corporate functions, weddings or social gatherings.

  • Plan, coordinate and execute successful events, specifying details like location, time, budget, theme and logistics
  • Hold pre-event meetings with clients, vendors and other stakeholders to confirm event goals, timeline and requirements
  • Monitor event activities in real-time, ensuring all timelines are met and standards are maintained
  • Review budgets, approve vendor payments and maintain organized records for easy post-event analysis
  • Produce event-specific marketing materials, manage public relations and promote events as needed
  • Organize and maintain a master calendar of upcoming events, prioritizing deadlines and managing resource allocation

Note: The role of an Event Planner can often be confused with similar roles, such as Event Managers and Event Coordinators

For a clearer understanding of these related positions and how their responsibilities differ, check out our job descriptions for Event Managers and Event Coordinators job descriptions.

Event Planner Experience and Skills

When outlining the experience and skills required or highly preferred for an Event Planner, remember to tailor these qualifications to your organization’s specific needs. 

For instance, start by specifying whether this is an entry-level position or requires prior experience in event planning or related fields. Here are some examples for different levels:

  • Entry-level: “No prior work experience is required, but the candidate should pass training.”
  • Mid-level: “Minimum of two years of experience in event planning, project management or a related field.”
  • Advanced or senior-level: “Minimum of five years of experience working in event planning, particularly for corporate or academic institutions, with an emphasis on large-scale functions.”

For specialized roles:

  • Wedding or social events: “Minimum of three years of event planning experience, with at least one year in wedding planning.”
  • Corporate events: “Experience in business or project management may be beneficial to navigate corporate structures and objectives.”

A well-rounded Event Planner should demonstrate skills in organization, multitasking and client relations. In addition, the following qualifications will help ensure success:

  • Core skills: Strong communication organizational and time management skills are essential to handle the diverse tasks involved in event planning. Candidates should also be adept at working under pressure and managing multiple tasks.
  • Technical proficiency: Proficiency in event management software and word processing tools is typically required. Knowledge of presentation software, such as Canva or Photoshop, is advantageous for creating visual proposals or reports, especially for roles with a design focus.
  • Industry knowledge: Familiarity with venues, vendor contracts and current event trends is beneficial. For roles like Event Designer, a creative background or an art degree is a plus, as these help hone aesthetic vision and attention to detail.
  • Additional beneficial qualifications: Depending on the role, certain additional skills can elevate a candidate’s effectiveness. For instance, you can mention graphic design, which can be helpful for creating marketing collateral, especially if the planner will handle promotional aspects; or a business or project management background, which can be useful for Corporate Event Planners who may need to navigate budgets, stakeholder expectations and measurable goals.

When listing experience and skills, prioritize what your organization values most for the Event Planner role, tailoring this section to reflect the demands of your specific event planning needs.

Event Planner Education and Certifications

As per CareerOneStop, 52% of current Event Planners got their job with a bachelor’s degree. Keep this in mind when writing your job description.

This chart is interactive. Hover your mouse over different parts of the chart to see detailed data.

For roles where expertise is more critical than formal education, certifications can be highlighted as an alternative or supplement to a degree. Here are some examples of relevant educational backgrounds and certifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree: Most Event Planners hold a bachelor’s degree in event management, hospitality, business or a related field. Degrees in these disciplines help candidates gain essential knowledge in planning, logistics and client management.
  • Event management certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) are highly regarded. These credentials showcase a candidate’s commitment to professional development and knowledge of industry standards.

Additionally, some certifications not directly related to event planning may enhance a candidate’s skill set and versatility in the role:

  • Project management certification: A Project Management Professional (PMP) certification can benefit Event Planners, especially in corporate environments, by developing skills in budget handling, scheduling and risk management.
  • Digital marketing or social media certification: For roles involving promotional work, these certifications can be beneficial, allowing planners to market events effectively.
  • Graphic design or interior design certification: Helpful for Event Designers or planners involved in aesthetic elements, these certifications can provide skills in creating visually cohesive and attractive events.

In exceptional cases, candidates with significant experience may qualify for the role without a degree. 

For instance, a high school diploma combined with three or more years of hands-on event planning experience may be sufficient for certain positions. Tailor your requirements to suit the needs and priorities of your organization.

Event Planner Salary Expectations

The average salary of Event Planners in the U.S. is $62,280 per year. With this, they can expect to earn $5,190 per month.

As the employer or hiring manager, you should offer a salary range that represents your organization’s good faith and reasonable compensation estimate.

You can also mention that the salary will depend on factors such as experience, qualifications, certifications and more.

Learn more about Event Planner wages with our Event Planner salary overview.

Similar Job Titles

Event Planner Job Description FAQ

Event Planners are responsible for the conceptualization and design of the event, while Event Coordinators focus on the actual event execution.

Although the national average Event Planner salary is $62,280 per year, this definitely doesn’t need to be the actual salary estimate or range you indicate in your job ad. You can adjust your indicated salary based on factors like the:

  • Scope of work for the position you’re hiring for
  • Skills, experience and other qualifications you require from candidates
  • Average cost of living in your city or state

Assistant Event Planners, for instance, might start with a lower figure, whereas senior or specialized roles in major cities like NYC can command higher pay. 

Yes, these roles are often considered the same, as both are responsible for conceptualizing and sometimes designing events. 

However, in some companies (particularly within event-focused organizations), the roles may be separated, with one typically having a higher level of responsibility than the other. For example, the company’s list of Event Organizer duties may have a broader scope than that of a more junior Event Planner.

We wouldn’t recommend it, particularly if they’ll be the ones primarily in charge of planning and executing events. 

For most Event Planner roles, it’s generally best to look for candidates with at least two to three years of relevant experience to ensure they can handle the full scope of event planning and logistics.

However, if you’re open to hiring entry-level talent, consider bringing them on as an Assistant Event Planner to support experienced planners and gain essential on-the-job experience before advancing to a lead planning role.

It depends. Hiring a freelance Event Planner can be a smart choice, especially if you’re working with a limited budget. 

Freelancers generally offer more flexibility with rates than planners hired through an event company, as they often work independently and can tailor their services to your specific needs. 

However, keep in mind that freelancers may have fewer resources or team support than a larger event company would provide. So for complex events, you’ll want to discuss whether they have the connections and bandwidth to handle all details effectively.

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