Pioneer Works seeks an experienced Technical Director to join our team. Under the direction of the Artistic Director, the Technical Director (TD) is principally responsible for developing and executing AV system design, installation, activation and troubleshooting support for programs at Pioneer Works. These programs include exhibitions, performances, talks, screenings, conferences, fundraising events, internal meetings, as well as certain onsite community and rental events.

The TD oversees the safe and proper operation, maintenance, repair and security of all A/V equipment within Pioneer Works, plus associated production equipment (staging, rigging, portable power distribution). A successful candidate has experience in advance planning, budget creation and management, staffing, and equipment use for multidisciplinary technical productions, while effectively communicating and working closely with the curatorial team and external parties.

Responsibilities

Programs & Exhibitions

• Manage A/V planning, logistics, support and execution for onsite and offsite programs.
• Provide strategic guidance on art exhibition-related A/V needs, including leading installation and deinstallation as needed. Train Front of House staff on all opening and closing exhibition procedures.
• Lead internal and external pre-production meetings and site visits to establish project scope, impact, equipment and labor needs.
• Develop streaming systems and best practices for online events.
• Oversee the department’s budget and provide accurate reporting to Accounting.

Personnel Management

• Recruit, coordinate, schedule and lead a team of audio, lighting, and video technicians, taking into account areas of expertise that may best serve a given project or event.
• Manage on the ground team, including load-ins, work calls, and load-outs. Supervise personnel during run-of-show as necessary. Maintain a high standard of execution through active personal engagement.
• Streamline personnel workflows and quality of service, establish procedural best practices and centralized databases with production crews. Key considerations include cost- effectiveness, timeline optimization and desired impact.
• Enforce industry-standard safety protocols including proper adherence to Department of Labor protocols and OSHA safety standards and best practices.

Inventory Management

• Develop and execute long-term infrastructural improvements aimed at increasing the efficiency and capabilities of the AV team, and the production potential of Pioneer Works.
• Catalog stock and replenish consumable supplies.
• Ensure safeguards and policies for tools and equipment are set and followed.
• Maintain, inspect, and repair inventory in-house, or in coordination with outside vendors.
• Research and source equipment upgrades as needed.
• Liaise with rental vendors when necessary.

Requirements

• 7+ years experience in a lead role in developing and executing audio visual production for concerts, art exhibitions, performing arts, and/or other live events, preferably in an institutional setting with broad experience as team foreperson.
• Extensive demonstrated experience managing an in-house or freelance A/V team.
• Advanced knowledge of hardware, materials, physical installation and rigging methodology, as well as an understanding of electrical safety and best-practices.
• Extensive proficiency with industry benchmark systems and software, such as the d&b audiotechnik workflow, SMAART, MA Lighting, BrightAuthor, Touch Designer, Resolume, Max MSP, Q Lab, in addition to DAWs such as Pro Tools et al. Skill in the area of visual rendering / CAD (Vectorworks or similar) is a major plus.
• Experience managing and tracking departmental and project-based budgets.
• Strong communication and organizational skills; demonstrated ability to multitask, prioritize quickly, and work within tight deadlines.
• Experience working across internal departments, and with external partners and performers.
• Proficiency with GoogleSuite, Microsoft Office Suite, Asana, and Slack.
• Expertise in all local, state and federal site safety rules and regulations. Active OSHA 30+ Certificate and/or Forklift & Scissor Lift Certification a plus.
• Ability to work nights and weekends as required; ability to engage in long periods of physical activity, including lifting 50+lbs; comfortable working at heights of 15+ feet.
• Extensive experience working within the New York Arts and Science communities a plus.