James Madison University Event Production Intern

About the role

Join Daktronics and be part of a team that creates cutting‑edge digital LED display technology and audio systems. As an Event Production Intern you will work on‑site at James Madison University (JMU) in Harrisonburg, VA, shadowing full‑time event producers and gaining hands‑on experience in event production for athletic events.

Responsibilities

• Shadow and learn from experienced full‑time event producers, gaining hands‑on experience in event production.
• Assist in producing and directing videoboard shows during live events, communicating with the production crew and athletics event manager.
• Plan and produce game‑day video roll‑ins, highlight packages, and other video elements to enhance the fan experience.
• Supervise, schedule, and develop the game‑day production crew for all sports.
• Participate in professional meetings with full‑time Event Production staff and collaborate with JMU staff to develop game‑day scripts.
• Engage with advertisers and marketing teams to ensure production meets stakeholder expectations.
• Manage, organize, and execute non‑contractual events within the basketball arena and football stadium.
• Develop, update, and render content using predefined templates (matchup graphics, upcoming event graphics, stat backgrounds, prompt graphics).
• Utilize Photoshop to create cutout photos for graphics, especially headshot and senior day graphics.
• Load and test content on machines, update content buttons, and support game‑week preparations.
• Assume gameday video board crew roles as needed (graphics operation, replay operation, camera operation, directing/technical directing).
• Schedule content for various displays during events and ad‑hoc requirements.
• Manage content scripts, creation lists, sponsorship reports, and other content‑related needs.
• Travel to other sites to perform Event Production duties as required.
• Contribute to Daktronics Intern Group recruiting events (if applicable) and deliver a capstone presentation.
• Build and maintain professional relationships and develop an eye for effective display design.

Qualifications

• Full‑time student enrolled in an accredited Bachelor’s degree program related to Broadcast Engineering, Graphic Design, Communications, Video Production, or a related field.
• Registered for at least 12 credits (undergraduate) or 9 credits (graduate) at the time of application.
• Will consider graduates from December 2025 and May 2026.
• Completion of sophomore year in good academic standing.
• Ability to take a semester off from school to complete the internship, if applicable.
• Commitment to 40 hours per week; overtime may be required for special events and travel.
• Submission of unofficial or web transcripts with the application.

Travel Requirements

Willing to travel up to 10 % of the time on trips ranging from two days to two weeks, including some weekends. Must be able to travel by air and ground and comply with the Daktronics Driver Eligibility Policy, verified through a motor vehicle record check.

Other Requirements

• Ability to quickly learn technical product features and communicate them to non‑technical customers.
• Capability to capture and evaluate non‑technical customer feedback and relay it to technical product managers and developers.
• Strong interest in sports and ability to relate to stakeholders of sporting applications.
• Outgoing, self‑motivated, flexible, well‑organized, empathetic, and personable.
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends as required by the production schedule.
• Must be 18 years of age or older and fluent in English (written and verbal).
• Daktronics does not sponsor, renew, or extend immigration visas for this position.

Desired Traits

• Knowledge of Daktronics Control Systems: Venus Control Suite, Show Control.
• Self‑driven with a commitment to meeting customer needs.
• Effective multitasking and prioritization abilities.
• Strong customer service orientation, excellent communication, attentive listening, and interpersonal proficiency.
• Collaborative team player with a positive attitude.
• Enthusiastic learner and dedicated knowledge‑sharing advocate.
• Quick and independent learner of software and technology.
• Familiarity with troubleshooting processes and technology.

Pay

The typical hiring range for this position is $18.00 to $22.00 per hour. The actual offer will consider education, experience, location, and applicable local legislation.

Benefits

• Employee discount program
• Employee assistance program
• Community donation program
• Unpaid time off
• 401(k) plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Leaves, disability, and accommodations

Schedule

The internship runs from 11 January 2027 to 13 August 2027, with the possibility of adjusting the schedule to fit your academic calendar. Expect a 40‑hour work week with occasional evenings, weekends, and overtime for special events.