Technical Operations SR/Manager

About the Role

The Technical Operations Manager plays a vital role in keeping the location and exhibitions operating safely and optimally for the business. This role ensures the consistent upkeep and maintenance of the location’s valuable technical systems and equipment, as well as installations and exhibitions on view. They facilitate the preparation of incoming exhibits’ production-related needs, special events, and occasional external activations tied to the location.

The Technical Operations Manager will be the primary contact for ARTECHOUSE Studio, liaising with operations staff, contractors, onsite personnel, and third-party vendors to ensure upcoming exhibit needs are met and all strikes and installations are smoothly executed. They will also educate the rest of the location team on the basic operating and troubleshooting needs of the ongoing exhibit and location technical operations systems.

This role is an integral part of daily operations, supporting the team in the venue and collaborating with the Operations and Visitor Experience teams to address facilities, technical, and cosmetic notes related to exhibit maintenance. The Technical Operations Manager will oversee 1-2 direct reports and be part of a larger ARTECHOUSE team supporting local and international initiatives.

Requirements

• 8+ years of professional work experience in a production environment involving physical installation and operation of AV and systems, live show production.
• 5+ years of team management experience.
• Excellent understanding of various AV equipment, AV system networking, media software, computer systems, projection and lighting equipment, safe rigging practices, general fabrication processes, good cabling practices, and general venue operations.
• General carpentry skills and experience with building facilities such as electrical and HVAC are a plus.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills.
• Action-oriented tactical thinker who shares experiences and best practices generously.
• Good understanding of each production phase involving technology, bespoke software, spatial design, fabrication, logistics, and fast-paced installation with a specialized creative team.
• Clear and organized communicator who can give and take directions well.
• Hands-on problem solver with a good eye for detail and a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Supportive project manager who moves projects forward and helps the team perform at their best.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Comfortable moving and working on ladders and operating a scissor lift.
• Must be able to safely lift 40 pounds or more and be handy with tools.
• Available and open to working on weekends, holidays, and nights as needed.

Responsibilities

• Ensure that the technical startup and shutdown procedures of the exhibits are solid and smooth.
• Develop daily operational procedures in collaboration with the Studio and operations team.
• Support the operations team with troubleshooting and escalate to the necessary point person for further support as needed.
• Troubleshoot and solve technology and technical-based challenges.
• Lead production-based notes for the ongoing exhibit (AV, scenic, lighting, or software-related).
• Provide onsite support for the Studio team and visitor experience team as needed.
• Keep production inventory up to date and organized.
• Support technical issues and difficulties during strike and load-in of new exhibits or special events.
• Assist in planning the strike and load-in process for new exhibitions.
• Perform and oversee regular maintenance of all experience technology equipment in the venue.
• Maintain various technology and equipment-related logs and documentation, such as troubleshooting, maintenance, inventory, and needed improvements.
• Keep detailed records and accounting budgets related to technical maintenance.
• Build, develop, and grow business, contractor, and vendor relationships beneficial to the location.
• Follow existing processes and contribute to refining and improving them.
• Source appropriate specialized help as required by the work.
• Manage facilities projects and repairs related to the operation and maintenance of exhibit and venue equipment.
• Work with the operations team to timely address any facilities issues that may impact the operation of venue equipment or exhibits, such as electrical or HVAC issues.
• Prepare and operate equipment for events in service of the guests and events team.
• Manage equipment inventory and warranties.
• Oversee storage and facility operations management.

Benefits

• Unlimited PTO so you can take the time you need.
• Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their dependents.
• Creative and passionate co-workers.

About Us

We are a small team with big ambitions. We create, produce, and present award-winning technology-driven exhibitions and innovative cinematic experiences for audiences of all ages. We also operate high-tech art spaces in Washington, D.C., New York City, and Houston. We believe in our mission and work hard every day to make the impossible possible in our effort to empower, educate, and inspire the future generation.

We pride ourselves on pushing creative innovation and working with some of the world’s best digital artists, offering a place where one can always experience the future of art today.

Learn more about our values.