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Trade Show Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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$89.60K - $157K/yr

... executive programs, and trade shows-within a fast-paced technology environment ... Own the full event lifecycle, including program design, timelines, logistics, and onsite delivery.

OR · On-site

$89.60K - $157K/yr

... executive programs, and trade shows-within a fast-paced technology environment ... Own the full event lifecycle, including program design, timelines, logistics, and onsite delivery.

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Trade Show Design information

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$12.5K

$54.6K

$94K

How much do trade show design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for trade show design in the United States is $54,604.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $71,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trade Show Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trade Show Designer, you need expertise in spatial design, visual merchandising, and a strong portfolio demonstrating creativity and attention to detail, often supported by a degree in design or a related field. Proficiency with CAD software, 3D rendering tools, and graphic design platforms like Adobe Creative Suite is typically required. Excellent communication, project management, and client collaboration skills help you stand out in this role. These abilities are crucial for creating impactful, brand-aligned exhibits that attract visitors and effectively communicate the client's message.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in trade show design and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in trade show design often face challenges such as tight deadlines, evolving client expectations, and logistical complexities of on-site installation. Adapting quickly to last-minute changes and ensuring that designs are both visually appealing and functional within the constraints of venue regulations are key aspects of the role. Successful designers collaborate closely with clients, fabrication teams, and marketing staff to ensure the final booth meets branding goals and operational needs. Staying organized, communicating clearly, and being flexible are essential skills to navigate these challenges effectively.

What is trade show design?

Trade show design refers to the process of planning and creating the visual and structural elements of a company’s booth or display at a trade show or exhibition. This includes everything from the layout and architecture of the booth to graphics, signage, lighting, and interactive elements. The goal is to attract visitors, effectively communicate the brand’s message, and create an engaging experience that stands out among competitors. Trade show designers often work closely with marketing teams to ensure the design aligns with the company's goals and branding.

What is the difference between Trade Show Design vs Exhibit Designer?

AspectTrade Show DesignExhibit Designer
CredentialsDesign or related degree, portfolioDesign or architecture degree, portfolio
Work EnvironmentTrade shows, event spacesMuseums, exhibitions, trade shows
Industry UsageTrade show industry, event planningExhibition industry, museums, corporate displays
Primary FocusCreating functional, engaging trade show boothsDesigning visually appealing exhibit displays

Trade Show Design focuses on creating functional and engaging booths specifically for trade shows, emphasizing branding and visitor interaction. Exhibit Designers develop visually compelling displays for museums, galleries, or exhibitions, often with a broader artistic or educational focus. While both roles involve design skills and industry overlap, Trade Show Designers specialize in event environments, whereas Exhibit Designers work on permanent or semi-permanent displays.

More about Trade Show Design jobs
What states have the most Trade Show Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Trade Show Design jobs include:
Infographic showing various Trade Show Design job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,604 per year, or $26.3 per hour.
Trade Show & Event Planning Manager (Trade Show & Event Management Manager)

Trade Show & Event Planning Manager (Trade Show & Event Management Manager)

Wolters Kluwer

Houston, TX

$89.60K - $157K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Wolters Kluwer rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 184 rated software companies


Job description

Job Description Summary

Leads the strategy, planning, and execution of high-impact internal and external events-including client engagements, executive programs, and trade shows-within a fast-paced technology environment. Operatesindependently to deliver end-to-end event experiences aligned to business objectives, brand positioning, and measurable outcomes.

Acts as a strategic partner to cross-functional stakeholders across Marketing, Sales, Product, and Leadership, translating priorities into scalable, high-quality programs. Owns the full event lifecycle, including budgeting, vendor and contract management, logistics, and onsite execution, while ensuring operational excellence and consistency.

Manages multiple complex programs simultaneously in a fast-paced, high-performance environment, requiring strong prioritization, adaptability, and the ability to perform effectively under pressure. Leverages data, analytics, and stakeholder insights to continuously optimize performance. Contributes to process improvement and mentors junior team members to elevate team capability.

Regular travel required (approximately 50%).

About the Role

Thisroleindependently leads complex event programs, delivering seamless, high-quality experiences that support strategic business goals and drive measurable impact in a dynamic, fast-moving, and often high-pressure environment.

Responsibilities

  • Lead end-to-end strategy, planning, and execution of complex events, including internal meetings, client conferences, executive programs, and trade shows.

  • Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to align event strategy with business priorities and customer engagement goals.

  • Own the full event lifecycle, including program design, timelines, logistics, and onsite delivery.

  • Develop and manage event budgets, including forecasting, financial tracking, and reconciliation.

  • Source, negotiate, and manage vendors, venues, and contracts to ensure quality and cost efficiency.

  • Manage multiple concurrent programs, proactively identifying risks and driving solutions to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

  • Establish and improve processes, tools, and best practices to enhance scalability and consistency.

  • Analyze performance metrics and provide actionable insights to improve future events.

  • Mentor junior team members and promote a collaborative, high-performing team environment.

  • Ensure compliance with organizational, contractual, and regulatory requirements.

Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience & Certification:Minimum of 10years of event management experience in corporate or technology environments;CMP certification required.

  • Strategic Leadership:Proven ability to independently lead large-scale, high-visibility events with measurable outcomes.

  • Stakeholder Management:Strong communication and influencing skills with senior leaders and cross-functional teams.

  • Financial Acumen:Strong expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and ROI analysis.

  • Program Management:Ability to manage multiple complex initiatives with strong prioritization and execution discipline in high-pressure environments.

  • Vendor & Contract Management:Expertise in sourcing, negotiating, and managing vendor relationships.

  • Data-Driven Approach:Skilled in leveraging analytics and insights to optimize performance.

  • Operational Excellence:Detail-oriented with a focus on quality, process improvement, and execution.

  • Adaptability & Resilience:Proactive, solutions-oriented, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding, and often stressful environment.

  • Technology Proficiency:Advanced skills inCvent and Microsoft 365 (Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Outlook).

  • Ability to travel up to 50% of the time (globally).

Our Interview Practices

To maintain a fair and genuine hiring process, we kindly ask that all candidates participate in interviews without the assistance of AI tools or external prompts. Our interview process is designed to assess your individual skills, experiences, and communication style. We value authenticity and want to ensure we're getting to know you-not a digital assistant. To help maintain this integrity, we ask to remove virtual backgrounds and include in-person interviews in our hiring process. Please note that use of AI-generated responses or third-party support during interviews will be grounds for disqualification from the recruitment process.

Applicants may be required to appear onsite at a Wolters Kluwer office as part of the recruitment process.

Compensation:

$89,600.00 - $157,000.00 USDThis role is eligible for Bonus.

Compensation range listed is based on primary location of the position. Actual base salary offer is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skills, experience and actual hiring location. Your recruiter can share more information about the specific offer for the job location during the hiring process.

Additional Information:

Wolters Kluwer offers a wide variety of competitive benefits and programs to help meet your needs and balance your work and personal life, including but not limited to: Medical, Dental, & Vision Plans, 401(k), FSA/HSA, Commuter Benefits, Tuition Assistance Plan, Vacation and Sick Time, and Paid Parental Leave. Full details of our benefits are available upon request.


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