Event Planner Salary in Odessa, TX
Event Planners in Odessa, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $27.36 per hour, which translates to about $1,094.40 per week, $4,742.40 per month, and $56,908.80 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Odessa is growing steadily at about 7% per year, reflecting positive job growth prospects and increasing opportunities in the event management field in this region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Odessa, TX?
The salary of an Event Planner in Odessa can vary depending on experience, skills, and the type of events planned. Below is a breakdown based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.82 | $632.80 | $2,741.33 | $32,825.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.36 | $1,094.40 | $4,742.40 | $56,908.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.52 | $1,420.80 | $6,136.00 | $73,881.60 |
Do Event Planners in Odessa Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their compensation typically comes from salaries or contracts for event planning services rather than gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Odessa vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average hourly wage of around $27.36 per hour, which equates to about $56,908.80 annually.
Event Planners in Odessa earn roughly the same as the national average, indicating that the local market provides competitive pay comparable to broader industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Odessa for Event Planners
Nearby areas where Event Planners can earn slightly higher salaries include:
- University Area: $29.00 per hour
- Downtown Odessa: $28.50 per hour
Those working in the University Area may benefit from marginally better pay opportunities, possibly due to event-driven activities in educational and cultural venues.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Odessa?
Several factors can affect how much an Event Planner earns in Odessa:
- Experience Level: Event Planners with several years of experience and a proven track record tend to secure higher-paying roles.
- Skill Set: Strong organizational skills, vendor negotiations, marketing, and client relations can positively impact salary.
- Type of Employer: Working for large hotels, conference centers, or specialized event companies usually offers better compensation than small agencies or freelance work.
- Event Scale and Complexity: Larger, more complex events or those involving corporate clients typically result in higher pay.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications like CMP or CGMP can enhance earning potential.
How To Become an Event Planner in Odessa
Embarking on a career as an Event Planner involves several actionable steps:
- Education: Pursue relevant academic programs such as the Bachelor of Business Administration in Management at the University of Texas Permian Basin, which covers management principles and strategic planning essential for event planning.
- Certification: Obtaining certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) through the Events Industry Council or the Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) for government-related events bolsters credibility and expertise.
- Hospitality Training: Consider short-term programs such as the Hospitality Management Certificate offered by Odessa College, focusing on event coordination and customer service fundamentals.
- Gain Experience: Volunteer or intern with event companies, venues, or non-profits to build practical skills and contacts.
- Networking: Joining local professional organizations and attending industry events help establish connections and job leads.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Odessa
Some of the leading employers looking for skilled Event Planners in Odessa include:
- Odessa Marriott Hotel & Conference Center
- Ector County Coliseum
- Odessa Chamber of Commerce
Establishments That Event Planners in Odessa Work At
Event Planners in Odessa are employed in various establishments, which can influence their salary:
- Hotels and Conference Centers: Such venues often have dedicated event planning teams with competitive salaries and opportunities for bonuses.
- Convention Centers and Arenas: Larger-scale events managed here might provide higher pay due to the complexity and size.
- Corporations and Non-Profits: Planning internal or external events can sometimes offer stability and benefits but may vary in pay.
- Event Planning Agencies and Freelance: Freelance Event Planners or those working in agencies might have variable income depending on contracts and client base.
Each type of establishment offers unique challenges and compensations, with larger institutions usually paying more than smaller agencies or freelance arrangements.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Odessa for Event Planners
If you are exploring roles similar to Event Planner, consider these careers that often share overlapping skills and responsibilities.
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles, which are closely related professions within the event management field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Odessa
Event Planners in Odessa should be informed about labor laws and taxation to navigate their careers effectively.
- Visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website for comprehensive labor statistics and occupational information.
- The Texas Workforce Commission website offers resources on employment, labor laws, and workforce development specific to Texas.