Fabricator

Job Details: Job Location: Chicago Office - Northlake, IL, Position Type: Full-Time/Part-Time, Education Level: High School or Equivalent, Salary Range: $68000.00 - $72500.00Salary, Travel Percentage: Up to 25%, Job Shift: Day, The Fabricator is a hands-on member of our production and warehouse team responsible for building, assembling, finishing, maintaining, and preparing custom exhibits, event displays, and branded activations.

This role works closely with Project Managers, Designers, Account Managers, and other production team members to turn creative concepts and technical drawings into high-quality finished products. The Fabricator also supports warehouse operations, event preparation, shipping and receiving, and occasional on-site installations and dismantles.

The ideal candidate is an experienced, solutions-oriented builder who takes pride in craftsmanship, works safely and efficiently, and can adapt to the fast-moving deadlines of the events and experiential industry.

Responsibilities

Fabricate, assemble, modify, repair, and finish custom exhibits, event displays, branded environments, and related production elements.
Read and interpret shop drawings, technical drawings, renderings, construction plans, and production specifications.
Determine appropriate fabrication methods, materials, tools, and assembly techniques for assigned projects.
Operate woodworking equipment, power tools, forklifts, pallet jacks, and other shop and production equipment safely.
Maintain a high standard of craftsmanship and ensure completed work meets project specifications and company quality standards.
Coordinate fabrication activities and priorities to meet production schedules and project deadlines.
Identify potential fabrication challenges and recommend practical solutions, material substitutions, or process improvements.
Communicate project status, material needs, scheduling concerns, and potential risks to Project Managers and other team members.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe fabrication shop and warehouse.
Follow OSHA requirements, company safety policies, and established safe operating procedures.
Inspect tools and equipment and communicate maintenance or repair needs.
Assist with maintaining appropriate inventory levels of fabrication materials, hardware, and shop supplies.
Prepare exhibits, event materials, equipment, and other assets for transportation and installation.
Assist with packing, loading, unloading, shipping, receiving, and material handling as needed.
Support on-site event installations and dismantles, including occasional overnight travel.
During fabrication downtime, assist with warehouse organization, inventory accuracy, asset tracking, equipment maintenance, and other production needs.
Perform other production and warehouse duties as needed to support successful project execution.

Qualifications: Education:

High school diploma or GED required.
Technical training, trade certification, or equivalent hands-on experience preferred.

Experience:

5+ years of experience in exhibit fabrication, scenic fabrication, woodworking, custom millwork, manufacturing, or a related production environment preferred.
Experience in the trade show, events, experiential marketing, or custom exhibit industry is a plus.

Skills:

Strong hands-on fabrication and construction skills.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, CAD renderings, and technical specifications.
Working knowledge of woodworking, finishing techniques, hardware, adhesives, and common fabrication materials.
Metal fabrication experience is a plus.
Experience safely operating shop equipment, power tools, forklifts, pallet jacks, and production machinery.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality craftsmanship.
Ability to troubleshoot fabrication challenges and develop practical solutions.
Ability to prioritize work and perform effectively under changing schedules and tight event deadlines.
Strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills.
Familiarity with warehouse operations and inventory management.
Valid driver’s license required.
Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification preferred.

Schedule:

Work is primarily performed in a fabrication shop and warehouse environment during regular business hours.
Occasional overnight travel is required to support event installations, dismantles, and other project needs. Travel frequency varies throughout the year based on the event schedule and business needs. Expected travel: up to 30%.