Description:
Job Summary:
The world-class exhibits at the Houston Museum of Natural Science are enjoyed by over one million visitors a year. The displays are built and maintained by our in-house exhibit professionals.
The AV technician works as part of an Exhibit Department project team to install and maintain ongoing and special exhibitions. The AV technician handles maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs of projectors, media players, monitors and servers, as well as installation of new interactive equipment. Various programming systems are used including Arduino and Raspberry Pi. The AV tech interacts with contractors and museum staff members in several departments including Exhibit Design, Creative Services, IT, Collections, Building and Visitor Services.
Responsibilities:
- Work with a team of designers, project leads and subcontractors
- Inspect and log interactives
- Troubleshoot mechanical and electrical interactive systems
- Program and troubleshoot Arduino, Teensy and Raspberry Pi
- Fabricate and install high-end exhibit components
- Coordinate and prioritize daily tasks with team lead, subcontractors and other fabricators
- Create and maintain detailed documentation for all assigned projects including parts lists, schematics and vendor information
- Inspect all work to confirm it complies with drawings, sketches, scope of work and other provided documentation and verbal instructions
- Preplan projects to have supplies, materials and tools ready ahead of time
- Safe set up and operation of shop tools and equipment
- Maintain neat, clean, organized workspace
- Other duties as assigned
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Three years of experience working in a custom fabrication or a public facing repair and maintenance environment for interactives.
- Knowledge of microcontroller systems and programing
- Experience with audio-visual installation, Arduino/Rasp Pi programming
- Experience with basic electrical, finish carpentry, metalworking, painting, plastic fabrication, sculpting methodologies
- Self-motivated, professional and able to work in a team environment
- Proven, strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Multi-task and prioritize responsibilities effectively
- Basic proficiency of Microsoft 365 applications
- Knowledge of Windows OS
Requirements:
- Must possess the ability to frequently remain in a stationary position, perform a wide range of physical activity that includes moving and positioning self into a variety of areas, work confidently while on ladders, scaffolding and work on high lift (Certification in high-lo is preferred, or on-the-job training will be required.)
- Must be able to work in both confined and public spaces in the museum
- Ability to consistently move and position equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Must be able to work a flexible schedule including some weekends
- Must have a proven track record of reliable punctuality and attendance