Event Planner Salary in Jackson, MS
Event Planners in Jackson, MS, earn approximately $31.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and $64,480.00 per year.
The job market for Event Planners in Jackson is growing steadily at about 7% per year, indicating increasing opportunities and demand for skilled professionals in the event planning industry.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Jackson, MS?
The salary of an Event Planner in Jackson varies based on experience levels and specific employers. Here’s a breakdown of earnings across different stages in their career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Planners in Jackson Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips, as their compensation is generally salary-based or hourly wages, reflecting their role in coordinating and managing events rather than providing direct service to customers.
Event Planner Salary in Jackson vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners make an average of about $27.36 per hour, or roughly $56,908.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Jackson earn more, with an hourly rate of $31.00 and an annual salary of $64,480.00. This suggests a competitive market for Event Planning professionals locally, offering higher compensation than many other parts of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Jackson for Event Planners
In the vicinity of Jackson, some neighborhoods and nearby areas offer higher pay for Event Planners:
- Downtown Jackson: $32.00 per hour
- Fondren: $33.00 per hour
Event Planners working in these areas might benefit from increased earnings due to local demand or the presence of larger venues and organizations requiring event services.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Jackson?
Various factors can affect the earnings of an Event Planner in Jackson:
- Experience and Expertise: Advanced skills in managing complex events and more years of experience typically attract higher salaries.
- Type of Employer: Working for large corporate clients, hotels, or high-profile event venues may offer better pay compared to smaller firms or nonprofits.
- Certifications and Education: Credentials like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) can enhance earning potential.
- Scope and Scale of Events: Planning large-scale or specialized events, such as conventions or fundraisers, often commands higher pay than smaller, routine events.
- Networking and Reputation: A strong professional network and solid reputation can result in more lucrative job opportunities.
How To Become an Event Planner in Jackson
Becoming an Event Planner in Jackson involves a combination of education, practical experience, and possibly certifications:
- Enroll in Relevant Education Programs: For example, the Event Planning Certificate Program at Hinds Community College covers fundamentals such as event coordination, budgeting, and marketing strategies.
- Consider Hospitality Degrees: Programs like the Hospitality and Tourism Management degree at Jackson State University provide a broader understanding of event planning and hospitality law.
- Pursue Certifications: Obtaining designations such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) can validate your skills and improve your career prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships, volunteering, or entry-level positions help develop organizational and management skills essential for event planning.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Jackson
If you’re looking for employment as an Event Planner in Jackson, these organizations often seek qualified candidates:
- Visit Jackson
- Mississippi Department of Tourism
- Jackson Convention Complex
Establishments That Event Planners in Jackson Work At
Event Planners in Jackson can find opportunities across a variety of establishments, each influencing salary levels differently:
- Convention Centers and Large Venues: Often provide competitive salaries due to the scale and complexity of events.
- Hotels and Resorts: Offer steady employment with benefits and tend to have higher average pay.
- Corporate and Nonprofit Organizations: May vary widely in pay; corporate event planners often earn more than those in nonprofit sectors.
- Wedding and Special Event Companies: Salaries can fluctuate seasonally but might include commission or bonuses based on event success.
The variety of establishments allows Event Planners to choose environments that fit their career goals and desired income levels.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Jackson for Event Planners
If you are interested in careers similar to Event Planning, consider these roles that require related skills and offer diverse opportunities.
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Restaurant Manager positions, which often involve overlapping management and organizational responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Jackson
Event Planners should be familiar with applicable labor laws and tax requirements at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure compliance and proper management of their work conditions and payroll.
- For federal regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- The Mississippi Department of Employment Security provides state-specific labor information.
- Local employment policies can be found on the City of Jackson Official Website.