Tradeshow Production Lead

Tradeshow Production Lead / General Labor
Full Time, Hourly
Onsite, Wausau, WI

Who We Are

We Drive Results. 14 West serves as a road to creative thinking and savvy branded promotions.

At 14 West, we create, manage, and deliver high-impact displays, trade show environments and promotional apparel and merchandise that help our clients stand out on the show floor or at point of purchase. We believe the power of branded merch influences the way customers feel about a brand – and we help our clients inspire this connection. We’re passionate about innovation, exceptional service, and building lasting relationships - and we’re looking for a driven professional to join our Account team.

About the Role

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.

· Assist with the fabrication, assembly, and finishing of custom displays, exhibits, and tradeshow structures

· Load, unload, and move materials, tools, and finished products throughout the production area

· Operate basic hand tools and power tools safely

· Support carpenters, fabricators, and production leads with day-to-day tasks

· Prep materials for production, including cutting, sanding, cleaning, and labeling components

· Pack, crate, and prepare displays and materials for shipment to shows and clients

· Follow production schedules, work orders, and supervisor instructions accurately

· Perform quality checks to ensure products meet company standards

· Assist with installation prep, repairs, or modifications as needed

· Adhere to all safety guidelines and use required personal protective equipment (PPE)

· Note: 14 West pays $5 hourly increase over standard wage for tradeshow work and travel

Core Values

We are looking for a team member who brings both experience and our core values to every aspect of their work. You thrive in a fast-paced environment, take initiative, and approach challenges with curiosity and creativity. You Communicate like a Pro, listening, clarifying, and connecting with clients and colleagues to ensure alignment and empowerment. You Do The Right Thing, leading with integrity, empathy, and respect, and caring deeply about your work, your team, and the impact you leave behind. You raise your hand when there’s a new opportunity, and we ask, Who Wants It?, bringing energy, initiative, and a passion for growth that inspires those around you. You Own It, taking full accountability for your projects from start to finish, delivering work you’re proud of. And you FITFO, approaching challenges with determination, resourcefulness and finding solutions others might overlook.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; college degree desirable.
• 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.
• Experience with tradeshow onsite execution desired.
• Ability to travel outside of the US, required.

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.

Pay: From $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

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

Application Question(s):

• Do you have the ability to travel outside of the country for tradeshow execution?

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $5 - $22