Entry Level Project Manager Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

ABOUT BLUE PEAK

Blue Peak Tents specializes in advanced tenting, structures, and flooring for high-end events across the Chicagoland area. Corporate galas, estate weddings, large-scale festivals. Complex installs at the highest standard. We are a growing company with a tight-knit field operations team and a real commitment to developing our people from within.

THE OPPORTUNITY

We built the Project Manager Apprenticeship Program for experienced tradespeople ready for something different. If you have spent years in the skilled trades, possibly out of a union, and you want a career with real upward mobility in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, this role was built for you.

This is not entry-level. We are hiring people who already know how to work hard, show up consistently, and solve problems in the field. What we will teach you is everything about our products, our standards, our clients, and how to run a premium event site from start to finish.

You will be in the field with experienced PMs and Crew Leaders from day one. That is how you learn at Blue Peak. Watch how they run a site, ask questions in real time, and progressively take on more ownership as your knowledge and confidence grow.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Embedded in our field operations team, learning every aspect of leading a Blue Peak project. Your responsibilities grow over time, but the work involves:

• Install, maintain, and tear down frame tents, pole tents, clearspan structures, flooring systems, and sidewalls alongside experienced PMs and Crew Leaders

• Learn temporary event power: generator placement, cable runs, load balancing, panel setups, and how to coordinate with electricians on site

• Develop working knowledge of HVAC for enclosed structures, including unit sizing, ducting, airflow, and integration with tent layout and sidewall configuration

• Understand the fine details that separate good from great: lighting tie-ins, cable management, safety clearances, and how the systems work together on a live event

• Assess tent top condition, hardware readiness, and inventory quality to determine whether materials meet the standard for the event

• Learn anchoring methods including staking, water barrels, and concrete anchors, with judgment for site-specific conditions

• Drive company vehicles (box trucks, flatbeds) to and from job sites; standard Illinois Class C license required within 30 days, Class B CDL pathway available after 6 months

• Coordinate with warehouse and dispatch on load lists, scheduling, substitutions, and last-minute changes

• Progressively take ownership of full project lifecycles, from production plan review through post-teardown clean-up

• Communicate with clients, event planners, and internal teams at high-end venues

• Lead and develop crew members, setting clear expectations and building toward a capable second-in-command

WHERE THIS GOES

A structured three-phase program with a real career path. Progression is based on what you demonstrate, not just time in the seat. Plan on roughly three years from start to full PM. The events tenting industry has a steep learning curve, and we are deliberate about not rushing it. The result is a PM who actually knows the work.

PHASE 1 Apprentice (Months 1 to 18-24)

You shadow and support PMs and Crew Leaders, learn our product lines and installation methods top to bottom, and build your foundation through monthly coaching with the Director of Field Operations. This phase is about learning the work cold before you lead it. Strong candidates with prior tent or rigging experience can move to Phase 2 closer to month 18; others take the full 24 months. Promotion is based on demonstrated competency, not time served.

PHASE 2 Associate Project Manager (Months 18-24 to 36)

Start independently leading smaller installations, take ownership of production plan review and site logistics, develop client-facing communication, and begin mentoring crew. Continued mentorship on the complex work. Quarterly assessments cover technical skill, leadership presence, and feedback from clients and peers.

PHASE 3 Project Manager (Month 36+) Starting at $100k annual salary

Full project ownership on complex, multi-day installations. Lead crews with confidence, manage site dynamics independently, and consistently deliver premium results. This is where the apprenticeship pays off.

WHAT YOU BRING

Required

• Substantial hands-on trade experience in construction, rigging, event production, general contracting, or a related skilled trade

• Proven ability to lead or work within a crew in a physically demanding environment

• Valid Illinois driver's license with a clean driving record at time of application

• Standard Illinois Class C (non-CDL) license required within 30 days of hire if not already held. This is the regular Illinois driver's license, not a CDL

• Class B CDL pathway opens after 6 months on the job, optional and contingent on performance. Blue Peak provides paid training and covers permit and testing fees

• Ability to lift 75+ lbs regularly, work outdoors in all weather, and keep pace through long, physical days

• Reliable transportation to our Batavia, IL facility; jobs across the Chicagoland area with early call times (5:00 or 6:00 AM)

• Professional presence; you will represent Blue Peak in front of clients and planners at high-end venues

• Successful completion of pre-employment drug screen and background check

Preferred

• Union trade experience (IBEW, Ironworkers, Carpenters, Laborers, Operating Engineers, or similar). We value the discipline, safety culture, and craftsmanship that union training builds

• Existing CDL (Class B or Class A). Class A holders are especially valued for our logistics operation

• Experience with tents, temporary structures, rigging, or event production

• Supervisory experience as foreman, lead, or crew chief

• Comfort with early mornings, long days, weekend work, and the seasonal rhythm of events (peak season runs roughly April through November)

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Starting pay: $80k annual salary (Associate Project Manager rate), based on experience and qualifications. Held at this rate from day one as recognition of skilled-trade experience

• Promotion rate: Starting at $100k annual salary upon promotion to full Project Manager (typically Month 36+)

• Class A CDL holders eligible for a premium within the starting band

• Full-time, year-round position with hours guaranteed at 40/week through the off-season (December through March)

• Overtime opportunities during peak season

• Health, dental, and vision insurance (effective first of the month following 60 days)

• 401(k) with company match (eligible after 90 days)

• Paid time off and paid holidays per the Blue Peak handbook

• Paid Class B CDL training (optional, opens at 6-month mark): tuition, permit, and testing fees fully covered, with paid time in CDL school

• Company-provided PPE, branded uniform, and tool allowance

• Per diem card for meals and incidentals on overnight jobs

HOW TO APPLY

Submit a current resume. All applicants must hold a valid driver's license at the time of application. Be prepared to discuss your trade background, crew leadership experience, and what draws you to the events industry.

Blue Peak Tents is an equal opportunity employer.