Tradeshow Production Lead

14 West, a leader in manufacturing displays & exhibits, has immediate openings for a Tradeshow Production Lead. We think, collaborate, design, engineer, cut, saw, weld, paint, print, sand, warehouse, kit, all in house right in Wausau, WI. Our crew takes pride in every item that leaves our 100,000 sf facility. We guarantee you will never get bored working for us! Come be creative!

Job Summary

The Tradeshow Production Lead is responsible for the on-site execution and logistical management of trade shows and events. This role ensures that exhibits, materials, and equipment are properly prepared, shipped, installed, maintained, and dismantled to create a high-quality, seamless experience for clients. The ideal candidate will have strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks on-site while collaborating effectively with internal teams and external vendors.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the setup and teardown of trade show exhibits on-site, ensuring accuracy, quality, and timeliness.
• Oversee shipping and receiving of crates, materials, and assets, including checking in and out, staging, and documenting inventory.
• Inspect and refurbish items upon return from shows to maintain exhibit quality and functionality.
• Collaborate with Trade Show Services Manager and/or Account/Sales teams and cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with event schedules and client expectations.
• Communicate directly with installation and dismantle service providers, shippers, and internal teams to coordinate logistics.
• Maintain accurate records of assets, shipments, returns, and event-specific documentation.
• Identify and resolve logistical or operational challenges on-site efficiently.
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures and quality standards during all production activities.
• Support internal teams by staging exhibits, loading freight, and preparing materials for shipment as needed.
• Support various production outputs and tasks on the production floor, assisting where capacity is needed and training is offered to ensure deadlines and quality standards are met.

General Tasks and Expectations

• Prepare exhibits for shipment and manage on-site inventory during events.
• Conduct quality inspections before, during, and after trade shows to ensure client satisfaction.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment on-site.
• Demonstrate flexibility and problem-solving skills under time-sensitive conditions.
• Assist in coordinating schedules and priorities for multiple trade shows simultaneously.
• Uphold professional conduct and act as a representative of the company while on-site with clients.

Experience and Qualifications

• High school diploma required; college degree preferred.
• Minimum 2–3 years of experience in production, events, logistics, or tradeshow setup preferred.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Experience with inventory management systems, CRM, or event software is a plus.
• Ability to lift, move, and stage heavy materials as needed for show setup and teardown.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and respond to deadlines with urgency.
• Willingness to travel and work extended hours as required by event schedules.

Core Competencies

• Team Collaboration: Works effectively with cross-functional teams and external vendors.
• Problem Solving: Identifies challenges and implements practical solutions quickly.
• Accountability: Takes ownership of responsibilities and follows through on commitments.
• Client Focus: Ensures a positive and professional client experience at all times.
• Flexibility: Able to assist with various production tasks as capacity and priorities require.
• Attention to Detail: Maintains accuracy in inventory, shipments, and on-site installations.

Compensation and Benefits

· Competitive wage starting at $22/hr commensurate with experience

o Double-wage implemented during show execution/activation

• Health, dental & vision insurance

• Life insurance, short-term disability, and workers’ compensation coverage

• 401(k) plan with employer contributions

• Paid time off and holidays

• Opportunities for professional development

Pay: $19.00 - $22.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $19 - $22