Freelance Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ABOUT THE NEW YORK ACADEMY OF SCIENCES 
The New York Academy of Sciences is an independent, not-for-profit organization that since 1817 has been committed to advancing science for the benefit of society. With more than 20,000 Members in 100 countries, the Academy advances scientific and technical knowledge, addresses global challenges with science-based solutions, and sponsors a wide variety of educational initiatives at all levels for STEM and STEM related fields. The Academy hosts programs and publishes content in life and physical sciences, the social sciences, nutrition, artificial intelligence, computer science, and sustainability. The Academy also provides professional and educational resources for researchers across all phases of their careers. Please visit us online at www.nyas.org 
JOB TITLE:  Part-Time AV Technician
DEPARTMENT:  Audio Visual Services
REPORTS TO:  Associate Director, AV Services
SUMMARY:
The AV Technician supports the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of audiovisual systems for live, hybrid, virtual, and recorded events at the New York Academy of Sciences. Working closely with the Associate Director, AV, internal staff, external clients, presenters, and event planners, this role helps deliver high-quality audiovisual services across the Academy's conference center, podcast studio, meeting spaces, and occasional offsite events. The AV Technician provides responsive technical support, excellent customer service, and ensures events are executed professionally and efficiently.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
The following duties are the essential functions of the position and must be performed, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Set up, configure, operate, and dismantle audiovisual equipment for live, hybrid, virtual, and recorded meetings and events, including audio, video, presentation, lighting, and videoconferencing systems.
• Operate audiovisual systems during events, ensuring reliable performance and providing real-time technical support to presenters, clients, and Academy staff.
• Troubleshoot and resolve audiovisual, presentation, and connectivity issues quickly and professionally to minimize disruption during live events.
• Prepare event spaces by testing equipment, verifying system functionality, and ensuring all audiovisual components are fully operational prior to the start of each event.
• Transport, move, and properly handle audiovisual equipment between storage areas and event spaces while following established safety procedures.
• Provide courteous, responsive customer service and technical assistance to internal and external stakeholders throughout all phases of event execution.
• Maintain the operational readiness of audiovisual equipment through routine inspection, basic maintenance, and proper storage following events.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
In addition to performing the essential functions above, the AV Technician may be responsible for the following:

• Support recording and production activities within the NYAS Podcast Studio, including setup and operation of microphones, cameras, lighting, and recording equipment.
• Review presentation files, videos, and multimedia content before events to verify compatibility and quality.
• Assist presenters with presentation loading, microphone placement, videoconferencing connections, and multimedia playback.
• Respond to requests from the Associate Director, AV, Meeting Operations, and program staff regarding event support, schedule changes, or additional technical needs.
• Maintain equipment inventories by participating in routine audits, documenting equipment status, and reporting repair or replacement needs.
• Assist with equipment installation, cable management, and implementation of system upgrades.
• Prepare post-event reports documenting technical issues, equipment concerns, and recommendations for future improvements.
• Maintain organized equipment storage areas and ensure equipment is properly cleaned, secured, and stored.
• Stay current with emerging audiovisual technologies, software, and best practices to support continuous improvement.
• Assist with training new employees, temporary staff, or freelance technicians on Academy equipment and operating procedures, as assigned.
• Perform other duties and special projects assigned in support of the Academy's audiovisual operations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:
This position has no formal supervisory responsibilities. The AV Technician may assist with training new staff or freelance technicians on equipment operation and Academy procedures as requested.
REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum of two to three years of experience supporting audiovisual systems for live meetings, conferences, hybrid and virtual events,
• Experience operating professional audio, video, and presentation systems.
• Working knowledge of digital audio mixers, PTZ cameras, video switchers, wireless microphone systems, and video conferencing platforms.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Windows, macOS, Microsoft Office, Keynote, Zoom, Webex, and Teams.
• Basic understanding of IP networking and audiovisual signal flow.
• Experience with Crestron control systems, Blackmagic Design equipment, Adobe Premiere, vMix, or similar platforms is preferred.
• Strong troubleshooting, organizational, communication, and customer service skills.

WORK SCHEDULE:
This is a part-time (25 hours per week), onsite position based at the Academy's offices in Downtown Manhattan. While the Academy's regular business hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, this role follows the Academy's event schedule. Hours will vary and may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays. Flexibility is essential to support live events, event setup and breakdown, and occasional offsite programs.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to:

• Stand and walk for extended periods during event setup, operation, and breakdown.
• Frequently bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach overhead, and work in confined equipment or backstage areas.
• Lift, carry, push, and pull audiovisual equipment and rolling equipment cases.
• Frequently lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds independently and occasionally assist in moving equipment weighing up to 100 pounds using appropriate lifting techniques or team assistance.
• Climb ladders while following established safety procedures.
• Use hands and fingers for repetitive tasks, including connecting cables and operating technical equipment.
• Work in environments with varying lighting conditions and elevated noise levels during live events.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
Salary Range: $30.00- $35.00 per hour ($39,000- $45,500 annual equivalent based on a 25-hour workweek). This is a part-time, non-exempt position. The position is eligible for overtime compensation in accordance with applicable law.
The salary listed represents a target range; final compensation will be determined based on multiple factors, including experience and qualifications.
In addition to salary, the Academy offers a comprehensive benefits package, which includes affordable health insurance, a retirement plan with matching employer contributions, a personal and career development stipend, as well as generous paid time off policies.
HOW TO APPLY:
Applications must include a resume and cover letter.
 
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The New York Academy of Sciences is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws. We prohibit discrimination in all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, benefits, training, and termination, on the basis of any legally protected characteristic. This includes, but is not limited to, actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The Academy is also committed to making good faith efforts to recruit applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, including those historically underrepresented in the sciences  
Reasonable Accommodations
The Academy is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment and employment process, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws. If you need assistance or accommodations during the application or interview process, please contact Human Resources at hr@nyas.org
 

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