Senior AV Technician

Job Title: Senior AV Lead Technician

Location: Brooklyn, NY

Reports to: Studio Operations Manager

Hourly Rate: 32.00 - 34.00

Department: AV Team

The Lighthouse, part of Whalar Group, is a first-ever creative campus and studio playground for the Creator Generation, offering Creators an I.R.L. platform to Learn, Make, and Belong. With Venice, CA already opened, and Brooklyn, NY opening in Fall 2025, and London/EMEA opening in 2026, the campuses are designed to empower and support career Creators and creative professionals, providing a dynamic environment explicitly tailored to their needs. Each campus features state-of-the-art, mixed-use content studios, and hosts impactful programming that empowers members to collaborate, learn, and grow their businesses within a thriving community.

The Lighthouse expands opportunities and creative capabilities, offering Creators a dedicated space to co-create, connect, and lead the businesses shaping creative culture. Learn more: www.thelighthouse.com.

About the role:

The Senior AV Lead Technician at The Lighthouse is responsible for the overall technical integrity and system architecture of our state-of-the-art production studios, including podcast studios, theater, photography studios and more. You will provide strategic technical direction to ensure that the studios are fully optimized, well-maintained, and accessible to our members, facilitating high-quality content creation. The Senior AV Technician will also play a key role in coordinating with the Studio Operations Manager and other teams to ensure that the studio services align with the overall mission and vision of The Lighthouse.

With a strong focus on technical leadership, content creation optimization, and architectural collaboration, this role ensures that every touchpoint—from a first-time visitor to long-time staff—is efficient, effective, and in line with The Lighthouse’s mission and values.

Here’s what you’ll do day-to-day:

Studio Operations

• Uphold rigorous technical benchmarks for lighting, recording, video, and audio across all production activities.

• Offer advanced technical guidance for sound, camera, and lighting systems in both exterior and interior environments.

• Evaluate technical specs, show flows, and equipment prior to events to mitigate risks and ensure preparation.

• Assist management by spearheading planning sessions, production requirements, and site tours for upcoming events.

• Direct high-profile and intricate event productions, guaranteeing the reliability of all utilized systems.

• Ensure operational regularity and technical quality while providing support for departmental strategic goals.

• Manage campus startup and shutdown protocols, performing detailed inspections to confirm safety and system functionality.

• Ensure the studio stays at the forefront of innovation by assessing feedback from members, executing technological improvements, and enhancing the physical layout to maintain a member-centric environment.

Team Development & Training

• Conduct performance coaching and technical training for AV Leads and Technicians to ensure consistent high-quality execution.

• Anticipate and address team skill deficiencies by coordinating professional development that bolsters overall campus readiness.

• Develop and refine standard operating procedures and campus playbooks to instill a culture of clarity and technical accountability.

Technical Support & Systems Maintenance

• Deliver hands-on technical assistance to creators, covering equipment configuration, production best practices, and troubleshooting.

• Guarantee high system uptime for staff and members by maintaining and monitoring all technological infrastructure.

• Execute advanced engineering, installation, and upkeep of AV hardware, including broadcast systems, lighting, sound, and non-linear editing tools.

• Manage the full lifecycle of technical components, from designing and connecting complex cabling to maintaining detailed inventory and purchasing records.

• Analyze emerging technologies to propose innovative strategies that enhance production quality and operational reach.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with IT departments to resolve network, system, and end-user challenges effectively.

• Collaborate with the broader AV Team to resolve technical disruptions rapidly, ensuring seamless studio functionality.

• Liaise with external vendors, editors, and production crews to coordinate diverse project requirements.

Production & Communication

• Lead the technical design and execution of audio-visual elements for events held at The Lighthouse.

• Ensure timely escalation of unresolved technical or IT issues to management if a solution is not reached within 24 hours.

Collaboration and Communication

• Coordinate with third party teams including external vendors, content creators, production teams, editors and service providers.

• Escalate technical issues with AV and IT equipment and systems to the direct supervisor when no resolution is found within 24 hours.

Campus Oversight & Operational Leadership

• Perform frequent site inspections to evaluate equipment status, hygiene, safety protocols, and the overall environment, taking action to resolve or escalate concerns as appropriate.

• Function as the primary on-site lead for operations during designated shifts.

Here’s what we’re looking for:

• Over 3 years of background in studio management or production, including a comprehensive grasp of technical production elements.

• Advanced technical knowledge of lighting rigs, audio consoles, projection systems, and industry-standard software.

• Experience operating professional studio gear, such as cameras, sound recording tools, and editing platforms.

• A minimum of one year spent leading teams of three or more people.

• Demonstrated ability to cultivate high-performance teams through active mentorship and leadership.

• Thorough understanding of organizational workflows and efficiency within fast-moving, service-oriented settings.

• Strong interpersonal and communication abilities, with a knack for effective facilitation.

• Adept at problem-solving within creative and dynamic environments.

• Available to work a flexible schedule that includes evenings and weekends.

• A genuine enthusiasm for supporting the work of innovators, entrepreneurs, and creators.

• Recognizing the dynamic and evolving nature of this position, leadership reserves the authority to modify or adapt these responsibilities as necessary to maintain the high standards of The Lighthouse.

Physical Requirements:

• Capacity to handle equipment weighing up to 55 lbs and operate safely on elevated platforms or ladders.

• Adaptability to diverse workspaces, ranging from large-scale theater environments to compact podcast studios.

The Perks:

The Lighthouse provides flexible benefits and collaborative work environments and experiences so employees can work productively in a setting that best and uniquely suits their needs:

• Medical, Dental, Vision

• PTO + Sick Time

• HSA, FSA, and Commuter + Parking Benefits

• Company Paid Life & Disability Insurance

• Voluntary Life Insurance Policy

• Voluntary Hospital and Critical Illness Insurance

• Employee Assistance Program

• 401k with Employer Matching. No Vesting Period.

Our values:

At The Lighthouse, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) isn't just a statement, it's our collective strength. Our people are our superpower. A diverse team and inclusive leadership have shaped Whalar since our inception in 2016, fueling a constant evolution of growth. We champion a culture of respect and empathy, fostering a sense of belonging that transcends demographics. We hire individuals of all backgrounds and empower them to thrive, challenge stereotypes, and actively break societal barriers.

The Lighthouse provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Equal opportunity extends to all aspects of the employment relationship, including hiring, promotions, training, working conditions, compensation, and benefits.