Last updated: January 2026
In this article: What They Do | Skills Required | Salary | Tools & Technology | Career Path | How to Get Started | FAQs
Event coordinators are the organizational backbone behind conferences, weddings, corporate gatherings, and everything in between. They handle logistics, manage vendors, and ensure events run smoothly from start to finish. If you’re detail-oriented, thrive under pressure, and love bringing people together, this could be the career for you.
What Does an Event Coordinator Do?
An event coordinator organizes events from conception to cleanup. Day-to-day duties vary depending on the employer and event type, but typically include:
- Meeting with clients to understand event goals and vision
- Preparing and managing event budgets
- Scouting and booking venues
- Coordinating with vendors (caterers, florists, DJs, photographers)
- Securing sponsors and managing sponsorship relationships
- Handling press outreach and marketing
- Arranging food, beverages, and entertainment
- Overseeing event setup and breakdown
- Managing on-site logistics and troubleshooting issues
- Conducting post-event analysis and reporting
“Depending on the size of an event, the preparation could take months or even a year,” says Christian McKenzie, who spent three years as an event coordinator for Macy’s before becoming a business account manager at Sears Holdings Corporation.
During her time at Macy’s, McKenzie pitched potential vendors and talent, processed invoices, worked with the legal team to draft service contracts, and managed relationships with clients—including celebrity handlers.
Event Coordinator vs. Event Planner
The terms are often used interchangeably, but there’s a distinction. Event planners typically handle higher-level strategy and client relationships, while event coordinators focus on execution and logistics. At some companies, coordinators assist planners; at others, the roles overlap significantly.
Types of Events
Event coordinators may specialize in specific event types:
- Corporate events – Conferences, product launches, team-building retreats
- Weddings – Ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners
- Nonprofit events – Fundraisers, galas, charity auctions
- Music and entertainment – Concerts, festivals, award shows
- Trade shows – Exhibitions, industry conferences
- Virtual and hybrid events – Webinars, online conferences, hybrid gatherings
Skills Required for Event Coordinators
Hard Skills
- Budget management – Creating and tracking event budgets
- Contract negotiation – Securing favorable terms with vendors and venues
- Project management – Coordinating timelines, tasks, and teams
- Event management software – Proficiency in platforms like Eventbrite, Cvent, or Social Tables
- Marketing and promotion – Social media, email campaigns, press outreach
- Virtual event platforms – Zoom, Hopin, or similar tools for hybrid/virtual events
- Basic legal knowledge – Understanding permits, contracts, and liability
Soft Skills
- Communication – Managing relationships with clients, vendors, and teams
- Attention to detail – Nothing slips through the cracks
- Problem-solving – Thinking quickly when things go wrong
- Time management – Juggling multiple deadlines and priorities
- Emotional intelligence – Staying calm under pressure, reading the room
- Adaptability – Pivoting when plans change at the last minute
- Stamina – Long hours, nights, and weekends are common
“And you have to have stamina,” says McKenzie, who logged plenty of night and weekend hours after putting in a full day at the office. “You don’t always get to quit at quitting time in this line of work.”
Event Coordinator Salary
Event coordinator salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry. Here’s what to expect:
| Experience Level | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $38,000 – $48,000 |
| Mid-Level (3-5 years) | $48,000 – $60,000 |
| Senior (6-10 years) | $60,000 – $75,000 |
| Event Manager/Director | $75,000 – $100,000+ |
Factors that affect salary:
- Location – Major metro areas (NYC, LA, Chicago) pay more
- Industry – Corporate and luxury events typically pay higher than nonprofit
- Company size – Large agencies and corporations offer higher salaries
- Specialization – Niche expertise (weddings, tech conferences) can command premiums
Tools and Technology
Modern event coordinators rely on software to manage complex logistics. Key platforms include:
- Eventbrite – Ticketing, registration, and event promotion
- Cvent – End-to-end event management for corporate events
- Social Tables – Venue diagramming and seating arrangements
- Asana/Monday.com – Project and task management
- Canva – Creating event marketing materials
- Zoom/Hopin – Virtual and hybrid event platforms
Career Path and Advancement
Typical Career Progression
| Level | Title | Years of Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Event Coordinator, Event Assistant | 0-2 years |
| Mid | Senior Event Coordinator, Event Planner | 3-5 years |
| Senior | Event Manager, Senior Event Planner | 5-8 years |
| Leadership | Director of Events, VP of Events | 8+ years |
Work Settings: Freelance vs. Agency vs. In-House
- Freelance – Flexibility and variety, but inconsistent income and no benefits
- Agency – Exposure to diverse clients and events, fast-paced environment
- In-house (corporate) – Stability, benefits, deeper focus on one brand’s events
Who Do Event Coordinators Report To?
Reporting structure varies by organization. Event coordinators may report to a Director of Events, an Event Manager, a Marketing Director, or a VP of Operations. At smaller companies, they may report directly to leadership.
Similar Job Titles
Roles with overlapping responsibilities include:
- Event Planner
- Conference Coordinator
- Meeting Planner
- Production Assistant
- Experience Designer
- Special Events Coordinator
- Corporate Events Specialist
Industry Trends for 2026
Virtual and Hybrid Events
Virtual events are now a permanent fixture. Event coordinators need expertise in virtual platforms, digital marketing, and remote audience engagement to stay competitive.
Sustainable Event Planning
Sustainability is increasingly important. Coordinators should know how to minimize waste and carbon footprint—from sourcing local food to using electronic invitations instead of printed ones.
Influencer Collaboration
Social media influencers can significantly boost event visibility. Understanding how to identify and negotiate with influencers—especially on Instagram and TikTok—is a valuable skill.
Diversity and Accessibility
Events increasingly cater to globally diverse audiences. Accommodating various cultural and accessibility needs—from language translation to wheelchair access—is essential.
How to Become an Event Coordinator
Education
A degree in marketing, public relations, hospitality, or communications is helpful but not required. Many successful event coordinators come from diverse educational backgrounds.
Get Experience Through Internships
“It’s the internships that make the difference,” says McKenzie. Seek opportunities to build your resume while still in school—you’ll be ahead of the competition when you graduate.
Build Your Network
Attend industry events to meet potential employers, clients, and mentors. Join professional organizations like Meeting Professionals International (MPI) or the International Live Events Association (ILEA).
Develop a Specialty
Specializing in a niche—corporate events, weddings, music festivals—can help you stand out in a competitive market.
Get Certified
Certifications can boost your credibility:
- CMP (Certified Meeting Professional)
- CSEP (Certified Special Events Professional)
- CMM (Certificate in Meeting Management)
How to Get Ahead
“Impress your manager with a skill no one else has,” says McKenzie. Securing sponsors, mastering a new platform, or developing vendor relationships can set you apart. Take classes, find a mentor, and stay current by reading trade publications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an event coordinator do?
An event coordinator organizes and executes events, handling logistics like venue booking, vendor management, budgeting, and on-site coordination. They ensure events run smoothly from planning through completion.
What skills do you need to be an event coordinator?
Key skills include project management, budget management, negotiation, communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving. You also need stamina—long hours, nights, and weekends are common in this field.
How much do event coordinators make?
Entry-level event coordinators typically earn $38,000–$48,000 annually. Mid-level coordinators make $48,000–$60,000, while senior coordinators and managers can earn $60,000–$100,000+ depending on location and industry.
What’s the difference between an event coordinator and an event planner?
Event planners typically handle higher-level strategy and client relationships, while event coordinators focus on execution and logistics. However, the titles are often used interchangeably, and responsibilities overlap at many organizations.
Do you need a degree to become an event coordinator?
A degree is helpful but not required. Degrees in marketing, hospitality, communications, or public relations are common backgrounds. Experience through internships often matters more than formal education.
What certifications help event coordinators?
Popular certifications include the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP), and Certificate in Meeting Management (CMM). These can boost credibility and career advancement.
Is event coordination a stressful job?
Yes, it can be. Event coordinators manage multiple deadlines, handle last-minute changes, and work long hours during events. However, many find the work rewarding—especially when an event comes together successfully.
What software do event coordinators use?
Common tools include Eventbrite (ticketing), Cvent (event management), Social Tables (venue planning), and project management platforms like Asana or Monday.com. Virtual event platforms like Zoom and Hopin are also essential.
Ready to start your event coordination career? Browse event coordinator jobs on Mediabistro.
