Compensation: $25 - $45 per hour (based on experience)

Job Type: Contract

Location: Chicago, IL - Remote + On-site

On-site Date: August 22nd - 25th

About BlackHouse

BlackHouse is a NYC-based, award-winning, Women and Black owned event production agency founded in 2016 with a mission to create experiences worth framing for corporations, brands, and non-profit organizations. Our experiential approach to event design brings our clients' messages and event programming to life. We bridge the gap between ideation and execution, providing a concierge-like experience for our clients. Working with a Tribe of the industry's elite, we provide comprehensive event production services, specializing in production design, technical production, and show direction. We offer a dynamic work environment and an opportunity to grow with a group of passionate individuals who live for moments that take your breath away.

Our vision is to create a unique and authentic work environment that allows our Tribe to flourish, both individually and in their teams. Our mission is to create meaningful experiences for our employees that bring them value both professionally and personally.

Position Summary

BlackHouse is seeking freelance Production Assistants to support in-person events in the Chicago, IL area. Ideal candidates are reliable, enthusiastic, and able to operate in a fast-paced production environment. You will support our Producers and technical team across various tasks related to event setup, execution, and strike.

Key Responsibilities

• Work will range from helping setting up the event and overseeing vendor installations/strike processes.
• Loading and unloading a production van or truck.
• Assist Lead Producer and Production Designer with on-site administrative tasks.
• Assist with venue load-in/load-out, including moving decor and production equipment.
• Assist in setting up BOH production office area, activation areas, and supply storage.
• Cross-check rental equipment, inventory lists, and BlackHouse pack lists.
• Assist with general production/stagehand tasks during event setup, run of show, and strike; tasks include, but not limited to:
  • Moving crates and decor for set up and strike
  • Taping cables
  • Pipe and drape setup
  • Organize dead case storage
  • Assist with general cleanliness and upkeep of FOH and BOH production areas.
• Serve as lead or backup driver; comply with traffic laws and transportation protocols.
• Support ordering, receiving, and coordinating crew meals for the production team.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in live event production environment.
• Clean driving record; ability to drive a transit van or 14’ box truck (CDL is a plus).
• Must have a vehicle for on-site errands.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Able to lift 50 pounds comfortably.
• Familiarity with handling production equipment (AV, lighting, staging).
• Proficient in interpreting production paperwork: schedules, layouts, pack lists.
• Comfortable using office equipment (printer, scanner, copier).
• Proficiency with Google Suite (Docs, Drive, Gmail).
• Familiarity with Mac/PC and general tech-savviness is preferred.

Personal Characteristics

• Handy - able to take direction and assemble items.
• People-obsessed - centered in empathy and connection.
• Multi-tasker - ability to take direction and execute multiple tasks.
• Collaborative - thrives in cross-functional teams.
• High-energy - resilient, optimistic, and mission-aligned.