Ball Horticultural Company in West Chicago, Illinois is looking for a versatile hands-on Trade Show Exhibit Tech. In this role, you would be responsible for building, assembling, maintaining, and repairing trade show exhibit components such as shelves, arches, cubes, pedestals and other more elaborate and creative displays. You will work with wood, laminate, aluminum, and other materials. You would also manage the inventory of materials and equipment and be responsible for loading trucks for safe transport to the trade shows. Role is located in a warehouse/workshop environment. Occasional travel to and from trade shows across the US for set up and tear-down.  

This is an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys working with their hands, building and creating displays, solving problems, and seeing projects come to life. The successful candidate will be comfortable working independently while also collaborating with internal teams to complete projects safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Build trade show exhibit displays from diagrams, drawings, measurements, or photo inspiration.
• Use hand and power tools safely and effectively to construct, modify, and repair exhibit components.
• Measure, cut, assemble, and finish materials to meet project specifications.
• Troubleshoot and make adjustments to exhibit components as needed during fabrication, setup, and tear-down.
• Load, pack, and unpack pallets for safe and secure shipping to trade shows.
• Operate a forklift and load trucks for shipping to trade shows and events.
• Assist with the setup and tear-down of exhibits at trade shows and events.
• Maintain safe, clean, and well-organized work areas.
• Maintain and organize tools, equipment, materials, and exhibit inventory.
• Purchase supplies and materials for projects as directed.
• Track materials and identify when supplies or equipment need to be replenished or replaced.
• Assist with special projects as directed.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams to understand project needs, timelines, and priorities.
• Follow all company safety procedures and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when performing job duties.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Relevant work experience in carpentry, fabrication, cabinetry, millwork, exhibit construction, theatrical/set construction, event production, or a related hands-on trade preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret basic diagrams, drawings, measurements, and project specifications.
• Ability to safely operate common shop equipment and tools.
• Action-oriented and able to make decisions in fast-changing or unpredictable situations.
• Adaptable and able to adjust to changing business needs and priorities.
• Ability to identify opportunities to improve work processes and workflow.
• Self-motivated with strong attention to detail.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Basic math and computer skills.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Must either have or be able to obtain forklift certification within three months of employment; certification will be paid for by the Company.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize multiple projects, and meet established deadlines.
• Willingness and ability to travel occasionally for trade show and event setup and tear-down.

Hourly Pay Rate: $25-$28

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs. for up to 20% of the workday.
• Ability to push/pull up to 50 lbs. for up to 10% of the workday.
• Ability to sit/stand for up to 100% of the workday as required.
• Ability to kneel/bend for up to 50% of the workday.
• Ability to reach for up to 50% of the workday.
• Ability to climb and maintain balance for up to 15% of the workday.
• Ability to use hands and fingers for up to 100% of the workday.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions for up to 30% of the workday.

Our promise to you

Ball is a global leader in horticulture: we develop, produce, and sell plants around the world. Our vision is to color the world through our customers. We create excitement in the world of flowers and are the first choice for service. We deliver all the best and nothing else! To you, we deliver a work environment and a culture where building long-lasting relationships internally and externally is important. 

In addition to this we provide a comprehensive Total Rewards package that includes:  

• Medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance 
• 401k/Profit Sharing Retirement Plan 
• Paid time off benefits including vacation and holidays 
• Tuition assistance 
• An onsite subsidized café overlooking 30 acres of renowned display gardens and restored natural areas 
• Employee Assistance Program and Positive Health programs