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What is a special events coordinator and how to become one
A special events coordinator is in charge of assisting, carrying out, and evaluating special events. You are responsible for training staff and consulting with clients and understanding the event's purpose. You will administer financial controls and procedures, act as event liaison between the client and the vendor, and implement an event plan, equipment seating, site development, and parking. The coordinator also needs to attend events to oversee activities and address any issues that may arise. You are to monitor the delivery of goods and make sure contract terms are satisfied, fulfill marketing plans including advertisement and trade shows, and determine staffing needs for special events.
To be a special events planner, you need to have a bachelor's degree and at least 2 years of experience as an event planner. You should have excellent organizational skills and project management skills and must be able to stay calm under work pressure. You will earn an average salary of $37,809 yearly.
What general advice would you give to a special events coordinator?
Duane Sunwold
Instructor, Spokane Community College
Avg. Salary $40,063
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate 18%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.24%
Asian 5.89%
Black or African American 11.34%
Hispanic or Latino 16.36%
Unknown 4.70%
White 61.46%
Genderfemale 73.63%
male 26.37%
Age - 36American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 36Stress level is high
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is poor
6.4 - fair
Special events coordinator career paths
Key steps to become a special events coordinator
Explore special events coordinator education requirements
Start to develop specific special events coordinator skills
Skills Percentages Customer Service 23.82% Event Planning 10.53% Press Releases 4.19% Event Logistics 3.74% Event Management 3.53% Complete relevant special events coordinator training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 1-2 years on post-employment, on-the-job training. New special events coordinators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a special events coordinator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real special events coordinator resumes.Gain additional special events coordinator certifications
More About CertificationsSpecial events coordinator certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific special events coordinator certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.
The most common certifications for special events coordinators include Certified Wedding and Event Planner (CWP) and Certified Medical Interpreter - Spanish (CMI).
Research special events coordinator duties and responsibilities
- Work closely with MDA families, volunteers, sponsors and fellow staff to achieve MDA objectives.
- Maintain business website and manage Facebook account.
- Manage reservations and priority seating for VIP diners to ensure customer satisfaction and encourage repeat business.
- Compile programs and PowerPoint presentations for day of event.
Prepare your special events coordinator resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your special events coordinator resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a special events coordinator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable special events coordinator resume templates
Build a professional special events coordinator resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your special events coordinator resume.
Apply for special events coordinator jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a special events coordinator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first special events coordinator job
Are you a special events coordinator?
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Average special events coordinator salary
The average special events coordinator salary in the United States is $40,063 per year or $19 per hour. Special events coordinator salaries range between $26,000 and $60,000 per year.
What am I worth?
How do special events coordinators rate their job?
Special events coordinator reviews
I was a theater major who received my CMP and realized I could put on a production in the corporate world. Event Planning allows me to utilize my skillset in a way I didn't know was possible. I also have the opportunity to travel and most venues treat you well when you're the planner (if you're the one in charge of the event).
Working as an Event Coordinator/Planner is the most exhilarating and ultimately the most rewarding job - at least for me, it is. I have the passion and drive to turn a simple birthday bash into a themed, carnival affair! I love to see the guests faces when they walk through the door to be whisked away into a different era! I enjoy getting to know the client and to understand their vision. Because in the end - if I have done my job correctly as an event planner and the final outcome was successful - then I have done my job to the best of my ability
There are times when no matter what you do - a difficult and unhappy customer who has a bad attitude with everything, will not be happy. No matter what you do.
Updated January 8, 2025
