Lead Event and Maintenance AV Technician (19589)

Updated: 4 months ago
Location: Washington, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Job Type: FullTime

Get to Know American University

At American University we value open and honest inquiry, servant leadership, and the affirmation of the human dignity of all. We envision a thriving AU community where individuals of all identities and experiences are understood, appreciated, and fully included, and where equitable treatment, opportunities, and outcomes prevail. 

Our diverse community of students, faculty, and staff represent every state and more than 150 countries. Our internationally recognized faculty are today's thought leaders in the areas of public policy, law, the arts, communications, international development, and more. Our staff are innovative, service-oriented, and dedicated to moving the university towards achieving its strategic goals. We are committed to an excellent experience for all of our students, faculty and staff and share a passion for creating change through our knowledge and our work. 

Learn more about American University by clicking here .  


Summary/Objective

The Lead Event and Maintenance AV Technician is one of the principal sound reinforcement and event and class support specialists for Audio Visual Services, reporting to the AV Technical Services Manager. Under direct management of the AV Technical Services Manager, the Technician performs repair and maintenance on critical AV systems and assists the management of the ongoing daily repair and maintenance services for the classroom and event spaces. Their duties include conducting on-site troubleshooting and maintenance of multimedia audiovisual equipment and systems in technology-enhanced classrooms and event spaces, and carrying out major repairs, cyclic and emergency equipment replacement and installation, system programming and re-fitting of equipment, cabling, and parts replacement. This includes managing emergency repairs to mission critical systems by the AV team or outside contractors. 

The position often works independently but also may act as team leader of full and part time staff for major events and installations. The position is intended to be dayshift, starting at 7:00AM.


Essential Functions
  • Engineers live sound reinforcement for major university events including Commencement, Opening Convocation, and events featuring visiting dignitaries and major political figures.  This includes room frequency analysis and digital sound processing, mic and speaker placement, live sound mixing, digital audio recording, and all tasks associated with providing superior live sound.  Provides audio editing and post-production of live recordings.  Designs and builds audio sub-systems and racks for use in live sound and installed sound applications.  Oversees installation and testing of audio systems for classrooms and event spaces.  Runs diagnostics and provides solutions for audio issues.  Programs DSPs and other audio devices. 

  • Run diagnostics, provide solutions, and direct and perform mitigation procedures for classroom and event systems and equipment, including streaming and Hy-flex systems.  Program audiovisual systems in classroom and event spaces. Update component firmware. Diagnose and address network and computer issues related to Hy-Flex systems. Oversee and test installations and upgrades by outside contractors of classroom and event systems.   Interface audio and video components with video streaming or video conferencing equipment for superior H-Flex classes and events. Interface audio systems with video display systems for live multimedia presentations at events. 

  • Provide front-line support for classes and events using installed audiovisual presentation and sound systems.  Run diagnostics, provide solutions, and direct and perform mitigation procedures for classroom and event systems and equipment.  Program audiovisual systems in classroom and event spaces.  Oversee and test installations and upgrades by outside contractors of classroom and event systems.  Interface audio components with video streaming or video conferencing equipment for superior audio and video broadcasts. 

  • Train faculty and staff in audio and AV system usage, signal flow, audio concepts, and basic and advanced troubleshooting.  Train faculty and staff in the use of Hy-flex systems. 

  • Other duties as assigned.


  • Supervisory Responsibility
    • May supervise both full and part time Technicians and/ or students for projects and events or when other supervisors are absent. 


    Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
    • Full-Time, 40 hours/week.

    • Coordinator/Analyst A.

    • Non-Exempt,

    • This position is union eligible.

    • Must be able to work a flexible schedule when required for university events including on weekends or switching shifts to accommodate necessary responsibilities.   


    Salary Range
    • $27.97 - $30.00/hour; to commensurate with experience.

    Required Education and Experience
    • 2-4 years of relevant experience.

    • At least 2 years’ experience in live sound reinforcement, audio production, editing and recording.  

    • At least 2 years' experience with audiovisual support in an educational environment.  

    • 2 years’ experience with electronics and AV systems maintenance, repair, and programming. 

    • Experience with hybrid or hy-flex systems and usage.

    • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.

    • Audio Technology, Audio Engineering, or a closely related technology field or equivalent in education and experience.  

    • Have or be able to obtain with a period of one year from starting date the following certifications: Extron’s AVA, ECS, and EDSP. Special consideration will be given to those candidates possessing higher certifications than those listed here.


    Preferred Education and Experience
    • Master’s degree or equivalent in Audio Technology or a closely related field. Have or ability to obtain AVIXA’s CTS-I certifications.

    • 4-6 years of relevant experience.

    • Troubleshooting, maintenance and repair of complex audiovisual systems.  

    • Video streaming and web-based video conferencing experience.


    Additional Eligibility Qualifications
    • Must be able to work independently in high stress situations.

    • Education, training or experience in digital electronics and basic network operation principles. 

    • Must be able to work a flexible schedule when required for university events including on weekends or switching shifts to accommodate necessary responsibilities.  

    • Computer skills including word processing, spreadsheets, and database use. 

    • Expertise in cable repairs including soldering and block connections.  Experience programming AV control systems such as SP Controls and Extron. 

    • Ability to think creatively to provide custom AV solutions to customers. 

    • Ability to read and understand technical manuals, documentation, and schematic diagrams, as well as conduct research and produce custom documentation/content and signal-flow diagrams. 

    • Experience managing technical staff as well as office operations. 

    • Must have exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.


    Benefits

    AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite. Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options .

    Union Eligibility

    This position is part of a collective bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local 500. That means the terms and conditions of your employment are governed by university policy (including the Staff Personnel Policies Manual) and any collective bargaining agreement entered into between American University and SEIU Local 500.

    Other Details

    • Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.
    • Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.
    • Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

    Current American University Employees

    If you are a current employee at American University, please log into AsuccessfulU through the myAU portal . Once in AsuccessfulU, please select the Careers tile which will take you to our internal career page. 

    Contact Us

    For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email [email protected] .

    American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual’s genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.



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