What Restaurants Do Event Coordinators Make the Most Money at in Milwaukee, WI?

The average hourly wage for Event Coordinators in Milwaukee is around $22 per hour, reflecting a solid base pay for this dynamic role. Yet, much like in other cities, total compensation often depends on the venue, types of events managed and individual experience.

While Event Coordinators typically earn a base salary, many also receive additional income from event bonuses, commissions or gratuities. In Milwaukee, this can range from an extra $5 to $15 per hour depending on the event’s scale and client generosity. This makes the position especially attractive within premier venues.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Coordinators in Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee’s vibrant culinary and event scene offers solid opportunities for Event Coordinators aiming to earn competitive pay. From elegant hotels to dedicated event spaces, several top venues stand out for their strong emphasis on events and well-resourced coordination teams.

Below are some of the best places to consider for high-paying Event Coordinator roles:

1. Bartolotta Restaurants

Known for managing multiple premier venues in the Milwaukee area, Bartolotta Restaurants specialize in upscale dining and event services. Their coordinated team approach and a reputation for exceptional weddings and corporate events translate into reliable pay and bonus potential for Event Coordinators.

2. The Iron Horse Hotel

This boutique hotel pairs hip, urban design with sophisticated event spaces. Event Coordinators here benefit from working in a trendy environment hosting a mix of private parties and business gatherings with above-average pay and gratuities.

3. Mader's Restaurant

Old-world charm blends with Milwaukee tradition at Mader’s, a German-American restaurant with a rich event calendar. Coordinators here manage cultural celebrations and milestones, often earning a mixture of salary and event-related bonuses.

4. Third Coast Provisions

This seafood-centric venue offers a more casual yet frequently booked event space. While base pay may be moderate, the consistent bookings provide steady opportunities for coordinators to earn supplemental event fees.

5. The Grain Exchange

Housed in a historic bank building downtown, The Grain Exchange caters to large corporate events and lavish weddings. Their premium pricing allows Event Coordinators to earn strong base wages plus performance incentives on high-profile events.

6. Hotel Lisbon

With a focus on community-centered gatherings and artistic events, Hotel Lisbon offers creative Event Coordinators room to shine. Its growing appreciation for curated occasions yields attractive compensation packages including tips and bonuses.

7. Milwaukee Public Market

This bustling market space contains multiple rentable venues for party rentals and events. Event Coordinators here juggle diverse gigs, which often come with flexible pay and tips depending on client generosity and event size.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Coordinator Earnings

The kind of restaurant or venue greatly influences an Event Coordinator's salary and tip potential. Specialized event venues and upscale restaurants typically offer higher wages because of the need for extensive organization and client management skills.

In fine dining or luxury hotel settings, Event Coordinators may receive bonuses tied to event size and revenue, while casual or fast-casual establishments may have steadier but lower supplemental earnings. The presence of in-house catering teams or exclusive partnerships can also impact commission opportunities.

Certifications such as CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) or special licenses related to event management tend to open doors to higher-paying roles. Additionally, venues located in Milwaukee’s downtown or affluent neighborhoods usually handle larger contracts, enhancing earning potential through higher event fees and gratuities.

How To Find a High Paying Event Coordinator Job in Milwaukee, WI

Network Within the Local Event Industry

Building relationships with venue managers, caterers and supply vendors can give you an inside track on upcoming job openings and freelance opportunities. Attending industry mixers and local event conferences is valuable for expanding your contacts.

Develop Targeted Skills and Certifications

Highlight skills such as budgeting, vendor negotiation and client relations on your resume. Acquiring certifications like CMP or event planning software proficiency will make you more attractive to employers looking for professionals who can handle complex events.

Customize Your Application Materials

Tailor your resume and cover letter for each venue, emphasizing relevant experience with the type of events they host. Showcasing previous successes such as large weddings, corporate events or festivals can set you apart.

Utilize Online and Local Job Resources

• Regularly monitor Milwaukee-based job boards and hospitality-focused listings
• Leverage platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed and hospitality groups where event coordination jobs are posted
• Consider reaching out directly to venues even if no openings are advertised

Prepare Thoroughly for Interviews

Demonstrate your ability to manage timelines, budgets and client expectations with clear examples. Be ready to explain how you would contribute to maximizing the success and profitability of events at the venue.

What’s the Outlook for Event Coordinator Jobs in Milwaukee, WI in 2025 and Beyond?

The demand for skilled Event Coordinators in Milwaukee is expected to grow steadily over the next several years. Factors such as the city’s expanding hospitality industry, increased corporate event spending and a strong wedding market drive this positive trend.

According to labor market sources, event planning and coordination roles nationally are projected to see a growth rate of around 9% through 2030, which aligns closely with Milwaukee’s event-heavy sectors. The city’s investment in convention centers and cultural spaces further supports this demand.

Event Coordinators with experience managing hybrid or virtual events and those skilled in leveraging technology are particularly in demand as events continue to evolve post-pandemic, offering new career pathways.

Is an Event Coordinator’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Milwaukee?

With an average base pay of about $22 per hour and additional income from event bonuses or tips, Event Coordinators in Milwaukee can expect annual earnings in the range of $45,000 to $60,000, depending on experience and venue.

Milwaukee’s cost of living remains moderate compared to larger metropolitan areas. For instance, average monthly costs include:

• 1-Bedroom Apartment (city center): $1,100
• Utilities (electricity, heating, water): $140
• Transportation (public transit/gas): $80–$120
• Groceries (single adult): $300–$400

This suggests that a skilled Event Coordinator earning at or above the average can cover living expenses comfortably, leaving room for savings and discretionary spending, as long as income remains steady and bonuses are factored in.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Milwaukee, WI Event Coordinator Jobs

We selected these venues based on a combination of compensation packages, location desirability and reputation for consistently hosting large-scale or premium events. This approach ensures candidates can focus on roles where the financial and professional rewards align well.

Key considerations included:

• Competitive hourly wages and bonus structures that reward performance
• Benefits and growth opportunities within the hospitality and event management sectors
• Venue prominence and event frequency, ensuring steady work and income potential

These factors collectively create opportunities where Event Coordinators not only earn well but build valuable experience in Milwaukee’s thriving event landscape.