What are the responsibilities and job description for the Trade Show Exhibit & Production Apprentice (Cross-Train & Grow) position at Expo Booth Masters?
About the Role
We design and build custom trade show booths, experiential environments, and exhibits. Our projects bring together custom woodworking, modular aluminum framing (like beMatrix), custom LED lighting, large-format graphic design, and print production.
We are looking for motivated Trade Show & Exhibit Apprentices to join our team. Whether your main interest is hands-on woodworking, CNC machinery, electrical lighting, or graphic design and printing, we want to hear from you!
No prior trade show experience is required — we will train you across every step of our shop workflow. You’ll gain broad hands-on exposure to how a complete booth comes together and eventually specialize in the department that best aligns with your skills and passions.
What You’ll Learn & Do Across Departments
- Graphic Design & Print Production: Assist with pre-press design setup, operating large-format graphics printers, cutting, vinyl weeding, laminating, and fitting fabric SEG (silicone edge graphics) onto frames.
- CNC & Custom Woodworking: Learn to operate CNC routers, edgebanders, panel saws, and woodworking power tools to build custom counters, display walls, and structures.
- Modular Frame Systems: Assemble, fit, and configure beMatrix and modular aluminum frame systems for walls, towers, and hanging signs.
- Lighting & Electrical: Assist with installing low-voltage LED strip lighting, accent fixtures, power distribution, and display electronics.
- Shop Pre-Builds & Packing: Help test-build complete booths on the shop floor, inspect all elements for quality, and safely pack crates for freight shipping.
Who Should Apply?
If you have an interest, passion, or background in ANY of the following areas, you’re a great fit:
- Graphic Design & Print: Hobbyist or entry-level experience with Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator/Photoshop), digital artwork prep, or vinyl wrapping/signage.
- Woodworking & Fabrication: Experience with shop tools, DIY building, carpentry, cabinetry, or maker projects.
- Machinery & Electronics: Interest in CNC equipment, 3D printing, low-voltage wiring, or mechanical assembly.
- Hands-on Problem Solving: Background in theater tech/stagecraft, trade school programs, or general construction.
Requirements
- Comfortable using basic hand/power tools and reading measuring tools (tape measures, calipers).
- For graphics paths: Basic computer literacy and a visual eye for design/alignment.
- High attention to detail and pride in crafting clean, high-quality finishes.
- Ability to lift materials (wood panels, metal frames, print media rolls) and stand for full shifts.
- Reliable, punctual, and eager to learn multiple trades.
Career Path & Progression
During your first 6–12 months, you will rotate through shop departments and work alongside experienced leads. As you find your calling, we will transition you into a dedicated specialist role — such as Graphic Design & Print Operator, CNC Machinist, Lead Exhibit Fabricator, or Lighting & Systems Specialist — with advancement and pay increases along the way.
Pay: $15.00 - $18.00 per hour
Expected hours: 20.0 – 40.0 per week
Work Location: In person
Salary : $15 - $18