Lab Operations and Support Consultant

About the role

Reporting to the Lab Operations and Support Manager, the Lab Operations and Support Consultant provides support and technical assistance to faculty and students on an array of highly specialized audio technologies, software, equipment, and classroom systems. This role ensures the correct and consistent operation of lab facilities, supporting classes, labs, rehearsals, performances, and special events with minimal disruption.

The consultant supports a wide range of industry-standard and specialized music technologies, including digital audio workstations (DAWs), professional audio hardware, synthesizers, MIDI controllers, audio interfaces, network audio technologies (such as Dante and AVB), A/V systems, and DJ equipment. The department supports 27 technology classrooms and labs operating 12–16 hours per day, seven days per week, serving music technology students, faculty, visiting artists, events, and community outreach initiatives.

This role collaboratively oversees a group of 30–45 Student Employees hired through the work-study program.

Responsibilities

• Provides in-person, on-call, and remote support for a variety of technologies, systems, and services, including specialized music technology equipment (synthesizers, MIDI controllers, audio interfaces), network audio systems, computer systems, music technology software, audio and video components, sound and projection systems, screens and displays, video and web cameras, and amplifiers.
• Provides support, technical assistance, and troubleshooting for classes, student lab time, and special events in technology labs and classrooms.
• Performs proactive monitoring and testing of systems and equipment; troubleshoots unresolved technical issues and escalates recurring issues for resolution.
• Collaborates with Distributed Systems and Technical Maintenance teams to document and follow up on technical issues; advises on areas for improved service offerings.
• Conducts semesterly software and hardware testing: executes test plans, documents results, and trains staff on revised technical support techniques for new installations.
• Participates in project teams for technology-related projects, such as room upgrades and new technology rollouts.
• Provides support for events, including setup, operation, troubleshooting, and breakdown of technology equipment.
• Maintains detailed records and submits reports of facility and equipment use, technical issues, and policy infractions using FileMaker Pro databases and web-based administrative software.
• Ensures adherence to lab protocols and rules, maintaining continuity and flow of lab operations.
• Supervises and trains Student Employees on policies, procedures, and troubleshooting methods.
• Coordinates with Equipment Specialists to administer access to student/faculty check-out equipment.
• Supports and maintains equipment in 15 Tutor/Student/Teacher conference rooms.
• Reports non-standard practices to the Manager.
• Creates and updates end-user and internal technical documentation.

Requirements

• B.A. in Music Technology or an undergraduate degree in a similar music technology program.
• 1–2 years of experience in a music technology technical or support role.
• Experience working at a higher education institution or within online education is preferred.

Skills

• Highly developed skills in central curriculum concepts, including DAW configuration and operation, composition, MIDI and audio recording, editing and mixing, signal flow, and microphone techniques.
• Understanding of sound design and synthesis, including modular and hardware synthesizers.
• Ability to troubleshoot modern A/V systems, including projectors, TV displays, HDMI switches, network audio (Dante and AVB), and multi-channel surround sound systems.
• Proficiency with audio software technologies such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Cubase, and Dorico.
• Experience using and troubleshooting audio plug-ins (e.g., Universal Audio, McDSP) and virtual instruments/sample libraries (e.g., Native Instruments Kontakt, Vienna Symphonic Libraries, Orchestral Tools, Spitfire).
• Proficiency with Mac and Windows operating systems, including software testing, writing test plans, and documenting results.
• Basic studio audio knowledge: microphone use, routing, monitoring setup, recording, and file management.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize assignments, meet deadlines, and work on multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; exceptional leadership and motivational skills.
• Promotes courtesy, sensitivity, respect, and fosters an inclusive workplace.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and FileMaker Pro.
• Robust knowledge of web browsers, caching issues, multimedia plug-ins, and conferencing software.
• Familiarity with video creation and editing software (e.g., iMovie, Final Cut Pro X, Premiere Pro, ScreenFlow).
• Familiarity with advanced curricular software such as Max/MSP/Jitter, Csound, and Adobe Creative Suite preferred.
• Familiarity with DJ equipment (mixers, turntables, CDJs) preferred.
• Experience with Workday, Colleague, and Informer preferred.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Supervision of on-shift Student Employees.

Pay

$28.50 to $29.21 per hour, dependent on relevant experience and education.

Schedule

• Shifts scheduled evenings and weekends.
• Coverage necessary for regularly scheduled shifts.

Special Working Conditions

• Ability to carry 30 lbs.