Freelance Audio Visual Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Audio Visual Engineer (hybrid) job at Zirous. Urbandale, IA.

Zirous is a dynamic, innovative, and accomplished tech firm headquartered out of West Des Moines, IA. For over 39 years, Zirous has been committed to executing best practices and going above and beyond industry standards to provide viable solutions for customers in all things data & analytics, marketing technology, cloud adoption, enterprise integration, identity & access management, custom application development, and experience services.

In 2025, Zirous enhanced its experience services expertise by acquiring Urbandale, IA based company, Applied Art & Technology and formed Applied Art & Technology, a division of Zirous.

We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated Audio Visual Engineer to join our growing team.

Position Summary

The Audio Visual (AV) Engineer will be responsible for the seamless setup, operation, and dismantling of audio, video, and lighting equipment for various live events. This role requires a technically proficient individual with a keen eye for detail, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to troubleshoot complex issues quickly and efficiently under pressure. The ideal candidate will be reliable, customer-focused, and capable of clear communication, ensuring a professional demeanor in fast-paced event environments, often during irregular hours.

Key Responsibilities Event Production & Execution

• Setup, operate, and dismantle audio, video, and lighting equipment.
• Ensure all AV systems are thoroughly tested, configured, and optimized for peak performance and reliability.
• Provide on-site technical support during events, making critical decisions under pressure to resolve issues and maintain event flow.
• Manage and coordinate all technical logistics, including equipment procurement, setup, operation, and dismantlement.
• Oversee the end-to-end technical production of multiple, often complex, events simultaneously, from conception to post-event analysis.
• Technical planning, design, and schematic creation for all AV elements, including audio, video, lighting, staging, rigging, and show control.
• Develop detailed event timelines, production schedules, and technical specifications.

Technical Expertise

• Proficiency in audio, video, and lighting systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues efficiently.
• Maintain a strong understanding of AV over IP, Dante, NDI, and other networking protocols for AV.

Collaboration & Communication

• Collaborate with event planners, clients, and internal teams to understand requirements and deliver high-quality AV solutions.
• Foster a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement.
• Serve as the primary technical point of contact for clients, event planners, and other stakeholders.
• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with internal teams and external vendors.
• Clearly communicate technical capabilities, limitations, and solutions to non-technical audiences.
• Ensure high levels of client satisfaction through exceptional service delivery and proactive problem-solving.

Quality Assurance & Safety

• Implement best practices for AV production, ensuring the highest standards of quality and professionalism.
• Ensure all technical operations comply with safety regulations, industry standards, and company policies.
• Conduct post-event evaluations to identify lessons learned and implement improvements for future events.

Budget & Financial Management

• Develop, manage, and adhere to departmental and event-specific AV budgets.
• Negotiate contracts with vendors, suppliers, and freelance technical staff to optimize cost-effectiveness while maintaining quality.
• Monitor financial performance and identify areas for cost savings,
• Oversee inventory and asset tracking for all AV equipment.

Requirements Educational Background

• Bachelor's degree in Audio-Visual Technology, Digital Media, Sound Engineering, Live Production, or a related field; equivalent experience and certifications will be considered.

Work Experience

• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in live event AV production.
• Desired 3-5 years in a leadership or senior role with decision-making responsibilities.

Technical Skills

• Audio: Large-format sound systems, digital mixing consoles (e.g., Yamaha, Allen & Heath), wireless microphone systems, signal flow, acoustic principles.
• Video: Projectors, LED walls, video switchers (e.g., Barco, Blackmagic Design), media servers (e.g., Playback Pro, Millumin), camera operation (PTZ and manned), IMAG, live streaming technologies.
• Lighting: Intelligent lighting fixtures, DMX control systems, lighting consoles (e.g., ETC, GrandMA, Hog), stage lighting design.
• Rigging & Staging: Basic understanding of rigging principles, truss structures, and stage mechanics for AV integration.
• Show Control: Proficiency with integrated control systems (e.g., Millumin, QLab etc.).
• Networking: Strong understanding of AV over IP, Dante, NDI, and other networking protocols for AV.
• Directing: Ability to direct crew (Cameras, Audio, Graphics, TD, etc.) to create an orchestrated feed for audience (both in-person and virtual).

Other Requirements

• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, and to travel extensively as required by event schedules (ranging from a couple of days to a couple of weeks).
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Additional Offerings

• To work independently on your individual tasks, but also work as part of a team on a variety of initiatives. Your technical expertise is wanted and needed - team collaboration is key.
• To work alongside some of the smartest people you'll ever know. You'll learn from them, and they'll learn from you.
• LOTS of perks: catered lunches, snacks, beverages, social hours, on-site gym & shower facility, small group activity options outside of work (think axe throwing, bowling, pickleball, go-karts, and more), and a flexible work schedule with the ability to work remotely and in the office.
• Recognition for a job well done! Employee of the Month and Employee of the Year awards with bonus amounts for each.
• Company-wide lunches on-site and remotely.
• Lunch and Learns (throughout the year we educate each other on different industry topics).
• Casual dress - jeans, sweatshirts, and flip flops are all acceptable while in our office or while working from home. We do dress up when client-facing, but don't worry if you are just graduating and don't have business clothes - we offer a clothing allowance!
• Professional development opportunities: certifications, continued education, speaking engagements, etc.
• Much, much, more!

Benefits

• Play a vital role in the success of an exceptional team.
• Enjoy a competitive salary along with an attractive benefits package, including a 401(k) match.
• Thrive in a supportive environment that promotes both personal and professional development.
• Experience the best of both worlds with our hybrid model, combining in-office collaboration and remote work days each week.
• Benefit from flexible scheduling options.
• Take on thrilling and diverse projects that keep you engaged.
• Embrace flexible time off (FTO) with unlimited time off - take the time you need while still being there for your teammates and Zirous.
• Receive paid holidays to recharge and relax.
• Access a cell phone subsidy and discounts with Verizon.
• We prioritize our employees' personal time, career aspirations, and life goals.

Zirous is an equal opportunity employer.