Senior Audio and Video Systems Technician

About this role

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University

Department:

AV Evening Operations

Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work Modality:

Full On Campus Presence Union:

SEIU Local 500 - Provost & Enrollment Division

This position is part of a collective bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local 500 - Provost & Enrollment Division. 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 - Provost & Enrollment Division.

Job Description:

Summary:

The Senior Audio and Video Systems Technician is one of the principal Audio-Visual systems diagnostic and repair Technicians for the department. The Technician takes primary responsibility for diagnosis, maintenance, and repairs for complex systems in campus classrooms and event spaces. The Technician is the lead Technician for Hy-Flex systems including audio, video, control, networking, programming, and computer maintenance issues. The Technician is one of three senior technicians responsible for complex maintenance and repair tasks regarding Audio Visual Systems and equipment generally. As such, the Technician runs diagnostics on audio and audio/visual systems, programs systems and components including digital signal processors (DSPs) and directs or performs appropriate mitigating actions when necessary. This position also oversees installations of audio and audio-visual systems, designs and builds audio subsystems, research, and recommends audio components to the department and the University. The Technician trains faculty and staff in audio concepts, signal flow, and system usage and consults with other departments on their audio needs.     The Technician may provide the highest quality sound reinforcement for major University events such as Commencement and Opening Convocation as well as for events featuring major political figures and visiting dignitaries.  The Technician may serve as the primary sound mixing Technician for events as well. In addition, the Technician interfaces audio components with video display systems for multimedia presentations as well as live video streaming and web conferencing.    The position often works independently but also acts as team leader of full and part time staff for major events and installations.    Essential Functions:

1.) Classroom and Event Space Technology Support  • System Diagnostics, Maintenance, Repair, & Installation: Run diagnostics, provide solutions, 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. 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.  

2.) AV Systems On-Site Service and Troubleshooting  • Provide front-line support for classes and events using installed or portable audiovisual presentation and sound systems, including Hy-Flex and other streaming. Diagnose and mitigate system issues or provide viable alternative solutions when mitigation is not possible at the time. Assist faculty, staff and students with on-site issues pertaining to use of installed or portable AV systems. Technicians provide 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.   

   3.) Training and Consultation  • Train faculty and staff in audio and AV system usage, signal flow, audio concepts, and basic and advanced troubleshooting. Consult with other offices and departments on campus on audio and AV needs, providing liaison with appropriate external vendors and designers when necessary. Train staff in the appropriate handling and storage of audio and video equipment and cables. Continue education through relevant online and in person training courses. 

4.) Research and Recommendations  • Research AV systems and components to provide the department with updated and cost-effective solutions to AV issues including backwards compatibility of components and integrating new technologies with current systems. Recommend new AV components and systems for purchase. Provide expert advice and input to the design team for new classroom and event installations and upgrades. 

  5.) Supervise Event Setup and Staff  • Determine required equipment, speakers, audio monitors, mics, and cabling for major events. Determine personnel requirements for events. Direct teams of full and part-time staff in setting up audio and/or video components for events, including running and gaffing cables in a neat and professional manner. Oversee staff in strike and storage of event equipment.  

  6.) Other Duties • Other duties as assigned.   

Competencies: • Acquiring and Analyzing Information.​ 

• Displaying Creativity.

• ​Serving Customers.​  

• ​Evaluating and Implementing Ideas.​  

• ​Developing Plans​.

• ​Making

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