AV Technician (Job ID: 2024-3498)

Join one of the most influential, most quoted and most trusted think tanks!  

The Brookings Institution is a nonprofit public policy organization based in Washington, DC. Our mission is to conduct in-depth research that leads to new ideas for solving problems facing society at the local, national and global level.  

We bring together leading experts in government and academia from all over the world, rooted in open-minded inquiry and representing diverse points of view, who provide the highest quality research, policy recommendations, and analysis. Research topics cover a full range of public policy issues in economics, foreign policy, development, governance and metropolitan policy. 

With fair and transparent business practices, clear communication, mutual respect, and a collaborative atmosphere that offers both professional and personal development opportunities, Brookings offers an inclusive and welcoming workplace that values the efforts of all contributors. 

The Brookings Studio’s mission is to provide broadcast quality services to the Brookings community enabling global outreach by our scholars to television, radio and web-based news outlets.  We are successful when scholars can focus on their interview, while our team operates the facilities and manages the logistics

Position location: This position requires full-time in-person work on site and is not eligible for any regular remote work. 

Please note: This position is included in the staff bargaining unit, Brookings United, affiliated with the IFPTE Local 70 union, and is covered under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement. 

Ready to contribute to Brookings success? 

The Audio-Visual Technician is an essential member of the Communications Events team focused on the effective, high-quality operation of audio-visual systems and technology, to support high-profile outreach and collaboration. This position partners with colleagues from research programs, business units, and Communications to create best in class experiences for participants and attendees of Brookings meetings and events. The position is eligible for overtime and hours will vary depending on meeting and event schedules. This position is considered a full-time, onsite position and reports to the Director of A/V and Studio Services.

Meeting AV Support (50%)

• Responsible for AV support of on-site meetings in the conference center including the setup and testing of all audio-visual equipment to prepare rooms for meetings.
• Completes walk through with meetings planners to confirm correct room setup and manages changes as needed for meeting needs.
• Performs post-event checks and strikes equipment; ensures efficient and safe storage of meeting recordings.

Event Support (35%)

• Provides AV support to on-site events by preparing rooms for speakers and presentations with microphone setup and checks, reviewing presentations and videos submitted by event coordinators to ensure proper formatting, and preps the video wall.
• Integrates remote speakers into hybrid style events; operates AV equipment to produce best in class events and webcasts; performs post-event checks of event rooms and strikes equipment; edits event audio/video recordings; ensures distribution and archiving of event recordings.
• Executes AV support for virtual events and meetings utilizing web-based platforms such as Zoom, MS Teams, etc.; edits virtual event audio/video recordings; ensures distribution and archiving of event recordings.
• Meets and collaborates with Communications, business units, and program planners regarding setup, technology needs, and support for upcoming meetings and events; works with staff to coordinate test sessions and rehearsals for meetings and events; establishes and maintains effective working relationships with vendors, clients, and co-workers.

Technology Maintenance and Improvements (10%)

• Maintains and operates a wide variety of audio-visual tools including cameras, microphones, sound speakers, video displays, projectors, web collaboration platforms, computers, mixers, seamless switchers, and recording devices.
• Performs routine maintenance and conducts regular operational tests; reports all equipment issues; evaluates and ensures all installations maintain best practice and operational standards.

Studio Support (5%)

• Provides surge and leave coverage for studio operations including, conducting live, remote and pre-recorded audio and video interviews; produce webcasts of in-person and hybrid events.
• Assist with creative, podcast and other types of productions; schedule studio bookings.
• Will participate in cross-training with other AV-studio team members to ensure everyone has a full working knowledge of AV and studio equipment and workflows.
• And all other duties as assigned.

Ready to make an impact? In this role, you will support Brookings values of collegiality, respect, inclusion, diversity and community, and bring the following qualifications: 

Education/Experience Requirements

Minimum of three years of experience providing audio-visual support for high profile events and meetings using both integrated and stand-alone audio-visual systems is required. CTS certification is preferred. Experience operating virtual events, in-person events, hybrid events, and managing multiple meetings simultaneously. Experience producing virtual and streaming productions. Associate degree or equivalent training is required. 

Knowledge/Skill Requirements

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact diplomatically with staff and high-profile guests. Technicians must be responsive to changing requirements and be able to manage multiple events/meetings simultaneously.    Knowledge and understanding of audio and video signal distribution, audio mixing, web-based collaboration platforms, PC and Mac computers, microphone types and usage, media file recording/playback, computer-based production software, and video/audio editing is required. Experience working with virtual collaboration platforms such as Zoom and Teams. Able to perform basic preventative maintenance and troubleshoot issues. Physically capable of lifting 40 lbs. and prolonged standing and walking.  A strong customer service orientation is required with the ability to remain calm in a fluid live show environment.  Technicians must dress appropriate each day, collared shirts and business casual pants are required when working with clients during events or meeting. Must be willing and able to learn new technologies and cross-train for other team roles as needed.

Additional Information

What can we offer you? Brookings provides a generous benefit package that is comprehensive and includes both traditional benefits and unique offerings. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision benefits, generous time off, and workplace flexibility. For more information, please visit Brookings Benefits. 

Brookings requires that all applicants submit a cover letter and resume. Please attach your cover letter and resume as one document when you apply. Please note: if you have applied to more than one Brookings job opening you should add a position-specific cover letter as a separate attachment.

Successful completion of a background investigation is required for employment at Brookings.

Brookings welcomes and celebrates diversity in all its forms.  We welcome applications that reflect a variety of backgrounds based on ideology, race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, first generation college goers, and other factors protected by law. Brookings is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer that is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace.