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Trade Show Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Donald E. McNabb Flooring Co

Be Seen First

Trade Show Administrative & Quoting Coordinator

Milford, MI · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

This is an in-office position working directly with the Director of the Trade Show Division and closely alongside our Operations Manager. If you want to learn the industry, build real responsibility ...

DERSE, Inc.

Show Services Coordinator

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$23.08 - $26.92/hr

We bring a smarter approach to building client sales while managing their trade show, marketing ... As directed and needed, backup Logistics department personnel * Stay highly organized, flexible and ...

DERSE INC

Show Services Coordinator

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$23.08 - $26.92/hr

We bring a smarter approach to building client sales while managing their trade show, marketing ... As directed and needed, backup Logistics department personnel * Stay highly organized, flexible and ...

DERSE INC

Show Services Coordinator

Waukegan, IL

We bring a smarter approach to building client sales while managing their trade show, marketing ... As directed and needed, backup Logistics department personnel * Stay highly organized, flexible and ...

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Trade Show Director information

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$27K

$67.1K

$106K

How much do trade show director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for trade show director in the United States is $67,149.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $81,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Trade Show Directors when managing multiple events simultaneously?

Trade Show Directors often face the challenge of juggling multiple events at different stages of planning, each with distinct requirements, vendors, and client expectations. Effective time management and prioritization are crucial, as is the ability to delegate tasks and coordinate cross-functional teams. Maintaining clear communication with stakeholders and adapting quickly to last-minute changes—such as venue issues or exhibitor requests—are essential skills for success in this dynamic role.

What is the difference between Trade Show Director vs Trade Show Coordinator?

AspectTrade Show DirectorTrade Show Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire trade show planning, strategy, and execution; manages teams and budgetsAssists with logistics, vendor coordination, and on-site support
Required SkillsLeadership, project management, industry knowledgeOrganizational skills, communication, attention to detail
Work EnvironmentHigh-level planning, meetings, and oversightOn-site event support and coordination
Common UsageUsed by employers for senior event rolesUsed for entry to mid-level event support roles

The main difference between a Trade Show Director and a Trade Show Coordinator lies in their scope of responsibilities. The Director oversees the entire event, including strategy and management, while the Coordinator handles logistical support. Both roles require industry knowledge, but the Director typically has more leadership and decision-making duties.

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

To thrive as a Trade Show Director, you need strong project management skills, in-depth knowledge of event planning, and experience in sales or marketing, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with event management software, CRM platforms, and budgeting tools is typically required. Excellent leadership, negotiation, and interpersonal communication skills help coordinate teams and build strong client and vendor relationships. These abilities ensure successful event execution, client satisfaction, and the achievement of business goals in a competitive market.

What does a Trade Show Director do?

A Trade Show Director is responsible for overseeing the planning, organization, and execution of trade shows and exhibitions. They coordinate with vendors, exhibitors, and venue staff to ensure all aspects of the event run smoothly. Their duties include managing budgets, marketing the event, supervising logistics, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory requirements. Trade Show Directors play a key role in creating successful industry events that connect businesses and foster networking opportunities.
What cities are hiring for Trade Show Director jobs? Cities with the most Trade Show Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Trade Show jobs? The most popular types of Trade Show jobs are:
What states have the most Trade Show Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Trade Show Director jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Trade Show Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Trade Show Director jobs are:
Trade Show Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trade Show Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,149 per year, or $32.3 per hour.
Director of Trade Show Learning

Director of Trade Show Learning

National Association of Home Builders

Washington, DC • On-site

$105K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

NAHB is seeking a Director of Trade Show Learning to lead the strategy, development, and execution of high-impact learning experiences for the International Builders’ Show (IBS). This role is unique in its full ownership of the education lifecycle – from proposal development and speaker management to onsite execution and post-show insights – while also serving as the key staff person driving innovation and quality across IBS education programming.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Manage the entire education selection process for IBS and related content serving as the lead staff assigned to the Convention Education Subcommittee (CES).
  • Responsible for managing the annual budget in support of IBS education.
  • Create and sustain a database of learning tracks, categories within those tracks, and subsequent 'leading topics of interest' derived from various NAHB stakeholder groups, surveys, and reports.
  • Establish the RFP submission process in the learning management system.
  • Oversee the Convention Education Subcommittee and the Convention Education Selection Meeting. Act as the primary contact for all elements of the Convention Education Selection Meeting, which includes creating and distributing support materials. Ensure that effective systems are established to capture member feedback and decisions on proposals.
  • Acting in collaboration with, and at the direction of, the Convention Education Subcommittee, distribute proposal notifications and execute their recommendations such as merging proposals and creating sessions to fill education gaps, collaborating with committee and council stakeholder groups as necessary.
  • Design and implement learning opportunities for pre-show symposiums, programs featuring paid speakers, and other enhanced educational sessions.
  • Responsible for regular communication with NAHB stakeholder groups, program planners, speakers, and the Convention Education Subcommittee. Assists marketing as needed with assets to promote IBS education, including the creation of virtual learning opportunities prior to the show.
  • Manage onsite staffing for IBS education including the utilization of NAHB and temporary staff.
  • Analyze IBS registration, attendance and evaluation data to identify trends and insights; make recommendations for future improvements based on findings.
Preferred Skills:
  • Demonstrates strong initiative and self-motivation, with the ability to perform effectively under pressure while managing and prioritizing multiple competing deadlines with efficiency and precision.
  • Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with volunteers, staff, speakers, and organizational partners.
  • Available to travel (some overnight and weekends are required).
  • Demonstrated ability to build consensus and identify and secure opportunities for collaboration.
  • Must demonstrate excellent writing and interpersonal skills with a professional and positive approach to customer service.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in education, business or communication field or equivalent in education and experience.
  • Minimum of five years of conference or trade show education development and delivery experience within an association environment.
  • Experience with alternative delivery systems for education is preferred.
  • Familiarity with Learning Management Software, adult learning principles, and best practices in education.
  • Proven ability to assess the learning needs of key audiences and attract high-caliber, in-demand speakers.
Why Join NAHB?

At NAHB, we are committed to protecting the American Dream of housing opportunities for all. Our team works to support members who build communities, create jobs, and strengthen the economy. We value Commitment, Dedication, Integrity, Collaboration, and Trust—and we’re looking for someone who shares these values.

Equal Opportunity Employer