Event Planner in Billings, MT
Event Planners in Billings, MT, in 2025, earn approximately $29.87 per hour, which translates to about $1,194.80 per week, $5,177.47 per month, and $62,129.60 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Billings is growing noticeably at about 8% per year, indicating a promising and expanding outlook for professionals in this dynamic and diverse field.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Billings, MT?
The salary of an Event Planner in Billings varies based on experience, skill level, and employer. Here is a breakdown of typical earnings for different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $27.00 | $1,080.00 | $4,680.00 | $56,160.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.87 | $1,194.80 | $5,177.47 | $62,129.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.13 | $1,325.20 | $5,726.67 | $68,910.40 |
Do Event Planners in Billings Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips since their compensation is generally based on salary or contract fees rather than gratuities. Their income relies more on their expertise and the scale of events they manage.
Event Planner Salary in Billings vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of about $28.85 per hour, amounting to roughly $60,008 annually.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Billings earn slightly more, with an average hourly rate of $29.87 and an annual salary near $62,130.
This difference may reflect the regional demands and the level of events coordinated in Billings, MT.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Billings for Event Planners
Several areas near Billings offer higher pay rates for Event Planners:
- Downtown Billings: $30.50 per hour
- West End: $31.00 per hour
Event Planners working in these neighborhoods may benefit from somewhat higher salaries due to local market factors and event demand.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Billings?
Several factors play a critical role in shaping the salary of an Event Planner in Billings:
- Experience and Expertise: Veterans with extensive portfolios in managing diverse types of events tend to command higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Strong organizational, negotiation, and communication skills, along with certifications like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), can increase earning potential.
- Type of Events: Planning corporate conferences, weddings, or large-scale public events often results in higher pay compared to smaller, private gatherings.
- Employer Type: Event Planners working for large corporations, universities, or dedicated event planning companies typically earn more than freelancers or those at smaller firms.
- Networking and Reputation: A solid professional network and established reputation in the Billings area can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay.
How To Become an Event Planner in Billings
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Billings involves several key steps:
- Educational Programs: Pursue relevant programs like the Event Planning Certificate at Montana State University Billings, which covers budgeting, marketing, and logistics. Alternatively, the University of Montana’s Hospitality Management Program offers a broad foundation in event management and hospitality.
- Obtain Professional Certifications: Certifications, such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP), validate your expertise and can improve career prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Volunteer or intern with event management companies or community organizations to build experience and contacts.
- Develop Specialized Skills: Improve skills in negotiation, project management software, and marketing to enhance your value as an Event Planner.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Billings
Several prominent organizations in Billings are consistently seeking Event Planners, including:
- Billings Chamber of Commerce
- Montana State University Billings
- St. Vincent Healthcare
Establishments That Event Planners in Billings Work At
Event Planners in Billings typically find employment opportunities in various types of establishments:
- Corporate Offices and Convention Centers: These often provide stable salaries and involve planning large-scale professional events.
- Universities and Educational Institutions: Planning academic conferences, graduations, and social activities.
- Hospitality and Catering Services: Organizing weddings, parties, and special celebrations, which may offer commission-based pay.
- Nonprofits and Community Organizations: Coordinating fundraisers and awareness events, often with smaller budgets but meaningful societal impact.
The type of establishment can significantly influence salary and benefits, with larger, more formal venues or organizations generally paying higher rates.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Billings for Event Planners
If you are considering careers related to Event Planning, here are a few similar roles in the hospitality sector:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles, which share skills and responsibilities in organizing and managing events.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Billings
Event Planners should be aware of the relevant labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and manage their income effectively.
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for comprehensive information on employment laws and regulations.
- Consult the Montana Department of Labor and Industry for state-specific rules, resources, and guidance.