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AV Technician II

Department: Technology

Reports to: AV Manager

Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Job Overview:

The AV Technician II supports Mystic Aquarium's exhibits, live shows, and special events by operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting audio-visual equipment to a consistently high standard. Reporting to the AV Manager, this role works independently on established AV setups and procedures, ensuring reliable technical execution for daily programming, live animal presentations, and organizational events. The AV Technician II also serves as a hands-on resource for staff for teleconferencing and presentation support, helping the Technology team deliver a seamless guest and staff experience.

Primary Functions:

AV Equipment Operation and Live Event Support

• Operate AV equipment during exhibits, live shows, programs, and special events, including the Marine Theater Sea Lion Show.
• Run established lighting cues and show-control sequences for scheduled programming.
• Support staff's AV, teleconferencing, and presentation needs across departments.
• Respond promptly to AV equipment issues during live events to minimize disruption to guest experience.

Equipment Setup, Maintenance, and Troubleshooting

• Set up, break down, and repair AV equipment for exhibits, programs, and special events.
• Maintain and troubleshoot AV equipment to established standards, escalating complex issues to the AV Manager as needed.
• Maintain working knowledge of Mac and PC systems used to support AV operations.

AV Systems Design and Project Support

• Evaluate and design AV systems for exhibits and live show production. 
• Specify equipment for AV Manager purchases and manage assigned project budgets. 
• Design lighting configurations and cues for new or updated exhibit and Marine Theater programming. 
• Present designs to the AV Manager and Exhibits team for approval. 
• Assist in planning and rollout of AV projects and research equipment needs under the direction of the AV Manager.

Cross-Departmental Coordination and Communication

• Coordinate with the Exhibits team on AV installations and related project needs.
• Maintain a positive, collaborative working relationship with all departments to optimize communication and project execution.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the AV Manager or Senior Director of Technology.

Safety and Emergency Response

• Respond to AV-related emergencies in a timely manner.
• Properly use and maintain all personal protective equipment (PPE) supplied for the role.
• Report unsafe conditions and maintain working knowledge of facility-wide and department-specific safety procedures, including emergency evacuation, lockdown, and fire extinguisher use.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Education & Experience: Degree or certificate in A/V technology or a related field, or equivalent minimum of 3 years' experience. An equitable mix of education and experience will be considered.
• Technical Proficiency: Working knowledge of Mac and PC systems; familiarity with lighting systems, teleconferencing platforms, and show-control systems.
• Troubleshooting and Repair: Demonstrated ability to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair AV equipment in a live production environment.
• Communication and Collaboration: Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with team members and staff across departments.
• Guest Service Orientation: Consistently demonstrates a positive, energetic attitude and willingness to provide guest service above and beyond expectation.
• Language: Multilingual preferred; Spanish speaking a plus.
• Flexibility and Availability: Ability and willingness to work a Monday–Friday schedule with evenings and weekends as needed to support live shows and events.

Physical Demands:

This role is primarily performed on the floor and in technical spaces throughout the aquarium, requiring the operation, setup, and repair of AV equipment during exhibits, live shows, and special events. The position involves working in varied environmental conditions, including indoor exhibit spaces, backstage and technical areas, and potentially wet or slick surfaces near marine habitats. Employees must be able to lift and carry equipment up to 50 pounds, perform tasks involving bending, reaching, and climbing, and maintain physical and mental stamina during live productions and high-traffic periods. Weekend, evening, and holiday availability is required.

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Employment with this organization is at-will, meaning either the employee or the organization may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable laws. This organization is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform the essential functions of this position. If you require an accommodation to complete an application, please contact (860) 572-5955 and ask to speak with the recruitment department. This position may require background checks and reference verification as part of the hiring process.