Project Manager - Trade Shows
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 19, 2026. First seen by Alion on Jun 10, 2026. Derse scores B on the Alion truth index.
Description
Derse is a complete face-to-face marketing agency and exhibit builder. We bring a smarter approach to building client sales while managing their trade show, marketing environments and event programs. Our teams are made up of smart and forward-thinking people who bring experiential marketing solutions to life!
We believe in committing to a long-term investment in your career with a total rewards package including:
- Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits package
- A bright and energetic culture where your ideas are valued
- 75+ years of financial stability
Derse employs nearly 600 people in marketing, program management, creative & skilled production, and corporate support. Locations include Milwaukee, Chicago, Las Vegas, Dallas, Pittsburgh, and various communities in Poland & Germany. Visit our website derse.com to learn more!
As a Project Manager - Trade Shows (aka: Project Manager - Service), you'll work with our production, logistics, and account teams in monitoring & managing certain project statuses. The Project Manager will also focus on creative solution implementation, budget allocation, and resource distributions on service projects. The position must reside within the Waukegan office to best support our teams. Joining our team comes with a unique challenge and set of responsibilities in the trade show and experiential marketing industry! Read through and apply if this sounds like the opportunity for you!
Project Manager Service Responsibilities
- Assumes complete accountability for monitoring and controlling project budgets and deadlines.
- Coordinate the post sale work order process for all assigned accounts/Account Executives.
- Review the estimate for general agreement with completeness, hours, materials and subcontract dollars.
- Determine the need/scope for detail drawings and/or set-up drawings and initiate all work with the Detailing department.
- Utilize demonstrated technical skills including proficiency in AutoCAD & Microsoft Office.
- Secure necessary information to properly process a work order.
- Monitor process of detail drawings to ensure timeliness and accuracy.
- Assign labor and material by department codes to all quoted and T&M work orders.
- Must have a good understanding of basic electrical requirements & woodworking techniques.
- Write purchase order requisitions for direct purchase materials.
- Lead quality & final project meetings prior to shipment.
- Additional responsibilities may be assigned.
Requirements
Project Manager Service Requirements & Qualifications
- Associates degree and / or 5+ years of related project management experience required.
- Previous experience working in trade shows or experiential marketing preferred.
- Good mix of financial acumen and ability to juggle multiple duration projects simultaneously.
- Highly organized, flexible and ability to work necessary hours in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment.
- Ability to travel to show-site to oversee installation and dismantle efforts, as needed.
Salary and Benefits Information
- Salary Range: $55,000.00 to $85,000.00 Annually.
- Benefits at Derse include; Medical (HRA & HSA), Dental & Vision Insurance, FSA, Employer-paid Life Insurance, 401k Profit Sharing, 3-weeks of Vacation and more.