Contract Technical Trainer Jobs in Crete, IL (NOW HIRING)

Do you thrive at the intersection of event design, technology, and client relationships?

BlackOak Technical Productions is seeking a dynamic Technical Producer to transform creative visions into extraordinary event experiences. In this role, you'll lead the sales, design, and execution of high-profile virtual, hybrid, and live events—from corporate conferences and galas to immersive social celebrations. If you're passionate about lighting, audio, video, staging, and creating unforgettable moments while building strong client partnerships, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact with one of Chicago's premier event production teams.

Join a collaborative culture where innovation, creativity, and excellence drive every event, and where your ideas can help shape remarkable experiences from concept to curtain call.

The Technical Producer is responsible for selling, designing, contracting, and producing virtual, hybrid, and in-person events, including corporate, social, and gala events. This role involves designing lighting, audio, video, and staging elements in collaboration with clients, venues, and internal teams, as well as planning custom event platforms, programming, and media production. The Technical Producer may also cross-sell services from Kehoe Designs Décor, BlackOak Technical Productions, and The Geraghty. Reporting to the BlackOak Technical Productions Sales and Design Manager, the position works closely with the Managing Director, Kehoe Designs Director of Sales, and the BlackOak Technical team.

Company Overview:

Each employee works together to strive to create the best design company by improving communication, showing genuine care for each other and the company, focusing on delivering quality, and demonstrating professionalism through personal excellence, with a shared passion, dedication, and commitment to providing exceptional value to our clients.

Essential Duties | What You’ll Do

• Meet with clients to develop event technology designs and secure business.
• Collaborate with Creative Services and Event Designers on technology themes and designs.
• Write and negotiate proposals and sales presentations per company guidelines.
• Secure client commitments, including down payments and signed contracts.
• Seek new sales opportunities and maintain relationships with current clients.
• Cross-sell services from Kehoe Designs Décor, The Geraghty, Floral Exhibits, and Entertainment.
• Act as the main client contact and project manager for internal teams.
• Liaise with clients to adjust contracts, answer questions, and ensure satisfaction.
• Create production schedules, storyboards, and run-of-show documents.
• Represent the company in meetings with clients, vendors, venues, and subcontractors.
• Suggest event enhancements and gain client approval for production concepts.
• Collaborate with the production team to execute events according to contract and client expectations.
• Manage virtual, hybrid, and in-person event components and ensure successful execution.
• Attend events to ensure client satisfaction and adherence to contract terms.
• Build and maintain relationships with venues, vendors, and clients.
• Continuously improve sales processes and event production quality.
• Maintain client and project records in CRM and project software.
• Follow safety policies and procedures and mentor safe practices.
• Track and enter time, complete HR and payroll tasks, and assist other departments as needed.
• Comply with all safety guidelines and complete training within timelines.
• Provide professional and respectful interactions with internal and external teams.

Requirements:

• 2-3 years of sales and event production experience, preferably in the creative or event technology industry.
• 1-2 years of virtual event or media production experience preferred.
• Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Hospitality, Theater Design, Production, or Business preferred.
• Strong understanding of technical production (lighting, audio, video, and staging).
• Ability to develop, interpret, and manage contracts, pricing, and financial reports.
• Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and conflict management skills.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with attention to detail and follow-through.
• Ability to work independently and under deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Open to learning new processes and industry trends to enhance event design and execution.
• Respect for diversity and inclusivity at all levels.
• Knowledge of website development or event planning software is a plus.
• Ability to use a computer and sit for up to 75% of the workday.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Ability to walk up to 50% of the workday in the office, and 100% on-site.
• Ability to travel to client and venue locations for event previews.
• Must tolerate moderate noise levels.
• 20/20 vision with correction.

Pay & Benefits | What You’ll Receive

• Salary, Exempt: $50k - $80K based on experience. Plus, commission per successful event sold.
• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan with company matching.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Paid vacation days, and holidays, in compliance with Illinois state law.
• Training & Development: Opportunities for skill development and career advancement.

Other Benefits

• Flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend availability.
• Travel opportunities for local and out-of-state events.
• Safe and supportive work environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Kehoe Designs is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.