Audio Visual Lead

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By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances the university’s world‑changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

The Audio Visual Lead is responsible for coordinating advanced technical functions related to the setup, implementation, and design of media equipment and productions, including complex designs and large‑scale events. The role supports all learning formats by verifying AV technology functionality and ensuring users are trained and comfortable with its operation. It requires strong prioritization skills, the ability to work independently in a fast‑paced environment with multiple conflicting deadlines, and minimal supervision.

• Act as the primary resource person, coordinating and consulting with clients on media production projects and major events, including the design of new systems or multimedia facilities.
• Schedule, prepare, stage, and troubleshoot AV events, delegating tasks ranging from minimal to moderate complexity.
• Develop technical solutions for all learning formats and events, providing support and event facilitation as needed, with on‑call availability on weekends.
• Perform regular AV/Media equipment maintenance, escalating to service work when necessary; develop, update, and maintain an inventory of equipment, schedules, and records; prepare status reports.
• Oversee and maintain various media equipment, including video, film, photographic, and audio systems, with a focus on complex equipment such as multimedia, computer projection, and videoconferencing systems.
• Train, develop, and supervise all AV staff (including temporary staff); train instructors, speakers, and presenters on AV technology; create and update standard operating procedures and AV documentation.
• Act as an AV construction and renovation representative between all stakeholders and experts; communicate needs, coordinate work orders, and manage timeline constraints; stay current on new and emerging technologies and recommend solutions.
• Provide expert consultation services, including project budgets, new facilities, events, or systems.
• Coordinate with outside vendors for equipment purchases, installation, and repair; prepare and monitor department or sub‑department budgets as needed.
• Provide information and advice to a diverse University public on technically complex matters; respond skillfully and promptly to a high volume of customer inquiries.
• Coordinate closely with IT, Academic Technology Support, and Distance Education Production, P&ED teams to support event facilitation and management of tickets, research software, and technology compatibility.
• May serve as coordinator or lead technician in a multi‑functional control room or studio.

Schedule:

Tuesday‑Friday (2pm‑10pm) and Saturday (8am‑4pm). Additional support outside these hours, including early mornings, nights, weekends, and holiday breaks, may occasionally be required. Overtime policy applies. The position is in person and based in Cambridge, MA. It is an “On‑Campus Critical Position” requiring on‑campus presence even during campus closures.

• Lifting equipment and moving between multiple classroom and convening spaces.
• Walking moderate distances between classroom buildings.
• Ability to lift 30‑50 lbs, climb ladders, and transport equipment across campus promptly.

• Bachelor’s degree.
• At least 2 years’ experience in audiovisual support.

• Three to five years of relevant experience with thorough knowledge of media equipment and system design; ability to educate and communicate with a diverse customer base about complex technology applications.
• AVIXA Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) certification is preferred.
• Previous leadership and supervisory experience are helpful.
• Demonstrated technical expertise in audio visual and multimedia, web conferencing platforms.
• Knowledge of…