Audio Visual Manager

Audio Visual (AV) Manager

We have an opening for an Audio Visual (AV) Manager to support the Building Operations department at MCA Chicago. Reporting to the Associate Director of Production, the AV Manager is responsible for the setup and management of AV technology for all museum events, including meetings, public and private events, programs, and performances. They are responsible for running point with both external and internal assigned programs, events, and/or rentals.

To be successful in this role, you must:

• Track and monitor AV budget and inventory. Make recommendations on purchasing, upgrades, maintenance, and repair of audiovisual equipment for meetings, events, programs, and exhibition-related interpretive spaces; manage security of stored equipment.
• Oversee and run point on AV needs for events and interpretive spaces. Meet with internal and external clients to understand event needs. Monitor events and respond to internal and external client needs throughout the course of programs and events.
• Engage in management responsibilities: Lead and develop team members by fostering an inclusive, psychologically safe environment that encourages open, two-way feedback and continuous growth. Serve as a positive cultural ambassador across the museum, modeling behaviors that champion equity, collaboration, and respect. Drive accountability and clarity of expectations while overseeing day-to-day operations, special projects, and performance against key metrics. Actively engage in coaching and feedback to strengthen engagement, support professional development, and achieve organizational goals.
• Assist with setup, testing, operation, and maintenance of digital signage.
• Ability to travel and support MCA engagements outside of the main campus
• Troubleshoot technical issues and resolve problems in real time.
• Inform the Associate Director of Production of progress or any issues with AV for all Production-supported events.
• Explore new ideas, identify changing opportunities, and develop ways to meet opportunities while understanding the financial implications of implementing changes.
• Arrange for AV equipment rental when necessary and with the prior approval of the Director of Production.
• Document and communicate equipment install, setup, layout, and schedules.
• Anticipate AV equipment challenges and changes in a timely manner.
• Respond promptly to AV-related Helpdesk emails and work order requests.
• Attend weekly Operations Meetings to stay abreast of AV needs.
• Train museum staff to use AV interfaces as necessary.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• 3 to 5 years of experience as an AV manager in a production environment with demonstrated advanced technical knowledge of programming, setup, testing, and troubleshooting of AV equipment and software or equivalent experience.
• Strong knowledge of video formats, resolutions, and playback methods and advanced understanding of acoustics and sound amplification to support temporary and permanent solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to integrate understanding of the MCA's existing systems and networked environment and AV integration with Cisco networks.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate and work well with a variety of individuals at all levels.
• Excellent judgment regarding competing priorities.
• Well-organized with excellent planning, time management, and project management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to network, research, and stay abreast of all relevant developments and approaches in AV technology, equipment, and solutions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365.
• Ability to lift and move AV and computer equipment, and work at altitude up to 10 feet.
• General mobility throughout all museum properties.

Benefits of Working at the MCA Include:

• Individual and MCA-provided retirement savings plans.
• Paid time off.
• Pre-tax, reduced-rate parking and Ventra/Metra benefits.
• Free admission to MCA exhibitions for yourself and guests.
• Free admission to many special and member events.
• Reduced-price tickets to MCA Stage performances.
• Discounts on dining in Marisol and in our award-winning MCA Store.
• Access to our onsite library.
• Opportunities to attend curator-led staff tours.
• Free or discounted admission to many other cultural institutions across the United States.

Full-time staff members are also eligible for a robust benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance plus free life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance.

This is a full-time position with a schedule determined by department and operational needs, which may include evenings and weekends, with occasional additional hours as required. 40 hours per week.