Audio-Visual Operations Lead

DESCRIPTION/RESPONSIBILITIES:

Who We Are

Peace is our commitment. The United States Institute of Peace represents the American people’s shared values and commitment to peace worldwide. We know that Peace is Security – it advances both U.S. and international security by preventing, managing, and mitigating violent conflict.

We are an independent, non-partisan institution and are actively engaged with peacebuilding efforts worldwide. Together we tackle the most challenging problems and hold fast to the possibility of a more peaceful world. To learn more about USIP programs and job openings, go to https://www.usip.org/about/careers.

If you have a passion for making the world a better place and want a front-row seat on the world stage, USIP is the place for you.

JOB BRIEF

The Audio-Visual Operations Lead is responsible for the efficient operation and maintenance of audio-visual (AV) systems for the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), including leading, coaching, and quality assurance activities for AV Technicians/Specialists. This position will support all audiovisual needs and end-user technologies as well as provide services which include equipment installation, equipment set-up, testing, technical documentation, and training. Supports audio-visual equipment and activities to produce successful USIP conferences, meetings, and events. This position is on-site based in Washington, DC and reports to the Senior Manager, Audio-Visual Production.

TARGET SALARY RANGE

Grade 12 – $89,000 – $92,000

The Institute uses the General Schedule salary tables for administering compensation. Offers are determined based upon candidate qualifications, related experience, internal equity, and the amount budgeted for the position.

RESPONSIBILITIES

* Provides guidance and technical oversight for AV Technicians and Specialists, including freelancers, to ensure that USIP AV efforts are consistently successful and performed with a high level of professionalism.

* Oversees and ensures appropriate installation, adjustment, and operation of audiovisual equipment such as cameras, lights, video conference systems, audio, and microphones for internal and external events.

* Actively develops and maintains a regular schedule for updating and upgrading AV system hardware and software.

* Develops and implements a preventative maintenance plan for AV systems and equipment, including recommendations for solutions and improvements.

* Diagnoses and resolves complex problems on advanced systems and provides post-mortem analysis for incidents and service interruptions. Escalates issues following established procedures.

* Maintains a thorough inventory of AV equipment and supplies, and monitors the repair and replacement of non-working, damaged, or obsolete equipment to collaborate forecasting budget

* Serves as AV Technical Lead for high profile onsite/offsite presentations, events, and meetings. Monitors scheduled meetings and proactively reaches out to meeting organizers to provide assistance.

* Supports AV for virtual and hybrid meetings as required.

* Installs, configures, and troubleshoots video conferencing applications.

* Tests and troubleshoots large-scale integrated AV systems. Works with the Helpdesk Manager and team leads to review feedback from staff related to AV, connectivity, and computer related issues, and work together to implement proactive resolutions.

* Under the supervision of the Senior Manager, leads AV projects in collaboration with AV technicians, and outside vendors.

* Reads and interprets construction drawings, diagrams, submittals, specifications, and schematics in reference to AV .

* Assists in training team members in new systems and providing guidance when necessary.

* Communicates with AV, Information Services, and Operations management on status of projects and any other issues needing attention.

* Keeps current on new AV products, trends, upgrades, and software programs.

* Demonstrates a safety mindset at all times.

QUALIFICATIONS

* Associate degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or other related discipline (or equivalent combination of education, experience, training, and technical certifications) required.

* Five (5) years’ experience in the audio-visual field.

* Five (5) years’ experience with conference center entertainment systems.

* Experience in the hospitality industry.

* Experience with audio/video control software (Creston and/or other) is required.

* Experience with sound mixer techniques and technology.

* Experience in video capture and editing.

* Advanced knowledge of AV and communication technology, installation, troubleshooting, repairs, maintenance, design, and fabrication.

* Detail oriented with strong analytical and organizational skills.

* Strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

* Outstanding customer service orientation.

* Experience in translating operational requirements into system requirements.

* Experience working both independently and, in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.

* Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

* Ability to convey technical information to non-technical individuals.

* Self-motivated with a high degree of self-discipline.

* Ability to lift, carry, and setup equipment that weighing up to 50 lbs.

* Ability to walk or stand for extended periods of time.

* Availability to periodically work flexible hours, including early morning, evening, and weekends.

All USIP contract and employee positions are contingent upon the favorable completion of a suitability background investigation.

As with many organizations, USIP follows specific guidelines related to COVID vaccinations. These guidelines align with the latest findings from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The overall intent is to ensure the safest possible workplace for USIP employees and contractors. In accordance with the guidelines, all USIP employees and contractors with building access are required to be fully vaccinated regardless of telework or remote status.

Upon acceptance of the position, you are required to submit proof of vaccination along with your signed offer letter to HR. If you require an exemption, either medical or religious, we will provide you with the exemption form for you to complete prior to your start date.

HOW TO APPLY

To be considered for this position, please submit a complete application package consisting of:

1. Completed employment application including titles, dates of hire and salary requirements.

2. Cover letter

3. Resume

For questions about this position please email [email protected]. Do not send resumes or attachments to this email address.

Only those applicants that are selected for further discussions will be contacted.

No Phone Calls. Interviews will be scheduled by appointment only.

USIP is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy and practice of USIP to offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, age, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, political affiliations or belief, pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by law.