Lead Installer

Essel; Anaheim (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Essel is seeking an experienced Lead Installer to oversee the installation and assembly of trade show booths, exhibits, displays, and event sets across the country. This hands‑on role requires strong leadership to guide a small on‑site crew and ensure projects meet deadlines with high workmanship.

The ideal candidate reads drawings, works with cabinetry and millwork, and safely operates a range of hand and power tools while coordinating with project managers and venue staff.

Qualifications

• Experience leading installation crews on trade show or event projects.
• Ability to read shop drawings and blueprints.
• Comfort working with carpentry and cabinetry assemblies.
• Strong attention to quality workmanship and on-site problem solving.

Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in the assembly and installation of trade show booths, exhibits, displays, and event sets.
• Assemble and install furniture, cabinets, millwork, fixtures, and custom components.
• Read and follow drawings, layouts, assembly instructions, and installation plans.
• Lead a team of installers and delegate tasks to ensure projects stay on schedule.
• Coordinate with project managers, venue staff, and other contractors as needed.
• Inspect completed installations for quality, accuracy, and proper alignment.
• Safely operate hand and power tools.
• Travel to various cities and states for installations and events, potentially up to 50% of the time.

Skills

Team leadership

Blueprint reading

Safety procedures

Troubleshooting

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Lead Installer to oversee and participate in the installation and assembly of trade show booths, exhibits, displays, and event sets at locations throughout the country. This position is hands‑on and requires someone who is comfortable working with tools, assembling furniture and cabinetry, interpreting installation plans, and leading a small team on‑site.

The ideal candidate has strong construction or installation experience, takes pride in quality workmanship, and can confidently lead a crew while working under tight event deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in the assembly and installation of trade show booths, exhibits, displays, and event sets.
• Assemble and install furniture, cabinets, millwork, fixtures, and custom components.
• Read and follow drawings, layouts, assembly instructions, and installation plans.
• Lead a team of installers and delegate tasks to ensure projects stay on schedule.
• Coordinate with project managers, vendors, venue staff, and other contractors as needed.
• Inspect completed installations for quality, accuracy, and proper alignment.
• Troubleshoot installation issues and make adjustments in the field.
• Safely operate hand and power tools.
• Load, unload, organize, and transport installation materials and equipment as needed.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Follow all company and venue safety procedures.
• Travel to various cities and states for installations and events, potentially up to 50% of the time.
• Work flexible schedules, including evenings, early mornings, weekends, and occasional overnight assignments depending on event schedules.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, manage assigned tasks, and make sound decisions in the field.
• Self‑motivated and dependable, with the ability to stay productive and meet deadlines without constant direction.
• Comfortable taking ownership of an installation from start to finish while knowing when to communicate issues or request support.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous trade show or event installation experience.
• Experience with custom cabinetry, millwork, or fabrication.
• Experience with modular exhibit systems.
• Carpentry or construction background.
• Experience working in convention centers, hotels, event venues, or large commercial spaces.
• Experience supervising or leading installation crews.
• Ability to work from detailed shop drawings or blueprints.