Hospitality & Food Service

Event Planner

SOC 13-1121.00 · ESCO 3332 · OSCA 149131

REA INV ART SOC ENT CON This role See your match →

Role snapshot

Overview

Coordinates every detail of conferences, weddings, or corporate functions, from booking venues and managing vendors to creating run sheets that keep the day on track. Event Planners are responsible for conceptualizing, budgeting, organizing, and executing events of various scales, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for attendees.

Creates memorable experiences and fosters connections for individuals, businesses, and communities by meticulously planning and executing events that meet specific objectives and exceed expectations.

On the job

  • Liaise with clients to understand event requirements, objectives, and budget.
  • Source and secure venues, caterers, entertainment, and other essential vendors.
  • Develop detailed event proposals, budgets, timelines, and comprehensive run sheets.
  • Oversee event setup, execution, and breakdown, ensuring smooth operations and adherence to plans.
  • Manage event logistics, including guest lists, registrations, and on-site coordination and troubleshooting.
Event Planner at work

Tools & technology

Microsoft Office SuiteEvent Management Software (e.g., Cvent, Eventbrite)CRM SystemsProject Management Tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)Venue Sourcing Platforms

Average salary

$65K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$45K Bottom 10%
$90K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

A certificate, diploma, or bachelor's degree in hospitality management, event management, or a related field is often preferred. Practical experience and a strong portfolio are also highly valued.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Event Planner
Event Manager

CURRENT ROLE

Event Planner

Hospitality & Food Service

ADJACENT MOVES

Hospitality Manager
Marketing Coordinator
Event Coordinator
Hospitality Assistant
Marketing Assistant

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

E

enterprising · ECS

People who enjoy leading, organizing, and interacting with others to bring complex projects to successful completion tend to thrive as Event Planners. The role requires a blend of social engagement, meticulous planning, and enterprising initiative.

Personality characteristics

Organized

Meticulous in planning and managing numerous details, from vendor contracts to guest lists, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Sociable

Enjoys interacting with a wide range of people, including clients, vendors, and event attendees, building strong relationships.

Collaborative

Works effectively with teams and external partners, valuing input and fostering a cooperative environment to achieve event goals.

Calm under pressure

Maintains composure and makes sound decisions in fast-paced, high-stress event environments when unexpected issues arise.

Innovative

Seeks creative solutions and fresh ideas to design unique and memorable event experiences that stand out.

Best for

  • People who are highly organized and detail-oriented, with a passion for bringing complex plans to fruition.
  • Individuals who thrive in social environments and enjoy coordinating people and resources.
  • Professionals who can think on their feet and solve problems creatively under pressure.

Watch out for

  • Fast-paced and high-pressure situations, especially leading up to and during events, require resilience.
  • The need for occasional weekend or evening work, as many events take place outside standard business hours.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Event Planner — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Team Planning & Review Meeting
Vendor Research & Outreach
Client Communication & Proposal Drafting
Tue
Budget Management & Financial Tracking
Venue Site Visit (Off-site)
Logistics Planning & Timeline Management
Wed
Vendor Negotiation & Contract Review
Client Presentation & Feedback Session
Event Marketing & Registration Setup
Thu
Pre-Event Final Checks & Confirmations
Team Briefing for Upcoming Event
Fri
On-site Event Setup & Coordination
Event Execution & Guest Management
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

FREE ASSESSMENT

Does Event Planner fit you?

Measure your personality and interests, then see how this career ranks against 1,300+ others — for you personally.

Take the free assessment →