Job Description

Overview

We're seeking a highly organized, strategic and proactive

Estimator

to help construct complex projects across trade shows, events, spaces, and experiential activations. The Production Build Team is the internal hub for execution on fabrication of Creative, Client Services/Account Management and Production -- ensuring that every project runs smoothly, teams are aligned, and no detail gets lost in the ever-changing world of production - and bringing it to life!
We're a team of creatives, strategists, and builders who believe great work starts with strong relationships and smart thinking. In this role, you'll be able to work with leading brands, craft meaningful experiences, and shape the future of trade show marketing. We support growth, reward hustle, and celebrate wins--big or small.

Job description

Storylink is a brand engagement agency located in the Twin Cities. We design and build custom brand engagement exhibits, digital assets and activations. Great company culture with room to progress! If you thrive in a growing, dynamic team environment and possess a strong desire to succeed, we would love to meet you!
As an

Estimator

, you will partner with our cross-functional groups to deliver efficient and accurate labor and build estimates that feed into client Statement of Work contracts. A successful candidate will be self-motivated, proactive, and have exceptional communication and collaboration skills. S/he has strong communication skills, is comfortable working with teammates across levels and disciplines, and is passionate about cultivating his/her skills as a master builder.
This role reports to the Director of Project Management and will receive requirements from Creative, Client Services and provide estimates the Production Build team will be held accountable to achieve. This involves requirements gathering with the Project Management team during kickoffs and turning estimates into a signed Statement of Work (SOW).
This is a fulfilling role for those that want flexibility, creativity and empowerment to build out the future of our culture. The ideal candidate is someone who is hands-on and can drive productivity, communication and provide a "what you see is what you get" (WYSIWYG) from design to fabrication.

Job Type: Full-time

THIS IS NOT A REMOTE POSITION
Local to the Twin Cities metro area and can travel to/from work site in Maple Grove, MN daily.

Core Values

Storylink is grounded in Our Core Values of Being:
Proactive

Committed to Excellence

Creative Problem Solvers

Dedicated to Partnerships

Duties & Responsibilities:

Living the Core Values using EOS philosophy Helping Production Build Manager drive resource capacity for determining how many resource hours are available to schedule weekly Skilled in master carpentry Estimating exhibits for trade shows, retail displays, corporate interiors, activations events, etc. Interpreting CAD drawings Conferring with designers to ensure build specifications are met Analyze design concepts, drawings, renderings, and specifications to develop accurate cost estimates for custom trade show exhibits and branded environments Prepare detailed estimates covering materials, labor, fabrication, installation, dismantle (I&D), and logistics Estimate fabrication costs related to: + Custom wood structures and cabinetry
+ Modular and custom wall systems
+ Flooring, platforms, and architectural features
+ Scenic finishes and specialty materials
Assist in incorporating estimate for graphics production and installation, including large-format prints, SEG, vinyl, and specialty graphic applications Develop cost estimates for AV and technology components, including monitors, LED walls, lighting, rigging, interactive elements, and show power Accurately estimate shop labor and on-site labor, accounting for build complexity, install timelines, and show regulations Coordinate and estimate third-party services, including: + Union labor (carpenters, electricians, riggers, laborers)
+ AV vendors, show decorators, and freight providers
+ Specialty subcontractors and rental vendors
Review show manuals and venue regulations to ensure labor rules, material requirements, and service orders are correctly reflected in estimates Work closely with designers, project managers, and fabrication teams to align scope, budget, and build methodology Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining design intent and quality Prepare clear, organized, and client-ready estimates, budgets, and cost breakdowns Participate in project handoffs to ensure scope and assumptions are clearly communicated to project teams

Skills/Experience Required:

Strong understanding of trade show exhibit design, fabrication, and installation processes Proven ability to estimate labor and materials related to: Woodworking and custom fabrication Modular and custom exhibit systems Graphics production and installation AV, lighting, and interactive technology Working knowledge of union labor rules, rates, and show labor practices across major convention centers Experience coordinating and pricing third-party and subcontracted services Ability to read and interpret: Technical drawings and renderings Floor plans and elevations Show manuals and exhibitor service guides High attention to detail with strong organizational and time-management skills Proficiency with estimating tools, spreadsheets, and project management software Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across creative, production, and operations teams Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Nice to have:

Experience in a custom exhibit house, event production company, or experiential marketing agency Familiarity with major trade shows and convention centers in the U.S. Knowledge of current exhibit materials, construction methods, and AV technologies NetSuite or similar ERP experience

What We Offer

Competitive compensation packages Flexibility Opportunities for career growth in a fast-paced, creative environment Access to a passionate, collaborative team of strategists, creatives, and makers A portfolio of exciting, award-winning work to sell

Exhibit Partners LLC, {DBA Storylink and Storylink Creative} is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive company culture. We do not discriminate against candidates because of disability, sex, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, veteran status, or any other protected status under the law.