Senior Audio Visual (AV) Engineer

About Zirous

Zirous is a dynamic, innovative, and accomplished tech firm with office locations in West Des Moines and Urbandale, IA. For over 39 years, Zirous has been committed to executing best practices and going above and beyond industry standards to provide viable solutions for customers. In March 2025, Zirous acquired Applied Art & Technology combining creative expertise with technical innovation to provide clients with a comprehensive suite of services.

Zirous has consistently been recognized as a highly desirable workplace, earning the title of a Top Workplace in the State of Iowa for several consecutive years.

Furthermore, Zirous's excellence has been highlighted by the Technology Association of Iowa, where the company has been a finalist for prestigious awards such as:

• Best Technology Company Culture of the Year (2023, 2025)
• Outstanding UX/CX Achievement of the Year (2025)
• Large Iowa Technology Company of the Year (2024)

Position Summary

Zirous is seeking a highly skilled audio-visual expert to lead all aspects of live and virtual event production, along with collaboration on interactive experiences. The Senior Audio Visual (AV) Engineer will be responsible for the seamless setup, operation, and dismantling of audio, video, and lighting equipment for various live events. This role requires a technically proficient individual with a keen eye for detail, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to troubleshoot complex issues quickly and efficiently under pressure. The ideal candidate will be reliable, customer-focused, and capable of clear communication, ensuring a professional demeanor in fast-paced event environments. 

This position will have an office within the Zirous Urbandale location. On-site days will be required for this role. Local candidates within the central Iowa region will be given priority.

Event Production & Execution

• Technical planning, design, and schematic creation for all AV elements, including audio, video, lighting, staging, rigging, and show control.
• Develop detailed event timelines, production schedules, and technical specifications.
• Setup, operate, and dismantle audio, video, and lighting equipment.
• Ensure all AV systems are thoroughly tested, configured, and optimized for peak performance and reliability.
• Provide on-site technical support during events, making critical decisions under pressure to resolve issues and maintain event flow.
• Manage and coordinate all technical logistics, including equipment procurement, setup, operation, and dismantle.
• Oversee the end-to-end technical production of multiple, often complex, events simultaneously, from conception to post-event analysis.

Technical Expertise

• Proficiency in audio, video, and lighting systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues efficiently.
• Maintain a strong understanding of AV over IP, Dante, NDI, and other networking protocols for AV.

Collaboration & Communication

• Collaborate with event planners, clients, and internal teams to understand requirements and deliver high-quality AV solutions.
• Role will have the internal support of marketing, sales, technical experts, and project managers to assist with the moving pieces of each event. 
• Communicate technical capabilities, limitations, and solutions clearly to non-technical audiences.
• Foster a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement.
• Serve as the primary technical point of contact for clients, event planners, and other stakeholders.
• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with internal teams and external vendors.
• Ensure high levels of client satisfaction through exceptional service delivery and proactive problem-solving.

Quality Assurance & Safety 

• Implement best practices for AV production, ensuring the highest standards of quality and professionalism.
• Ensure all technical operations comply with safety regulations, industry standards, and company policies.
• Conduct post-event evaluations to identify lessons learned and implement improvements for future events.

Budget & Financial Management

• Develop, manage, and adhere to departmental and event-specific AV budgets.
• Negotiate contracts with vendors, suppliers, and freelance technical staff to optimize cost-effectiveness while maintaining quality.
• Oversee inventory and asset tracking for all AV equipment.

Requirements

Educational Background

• Bachelor's degree in Audio-Visual Technology, Digital Media, Sound Engineering, Live Production, or a related field; equivalent experience and certifications will be considered.

Work Experience

• 10+ years of progressive experience in live event AV production.
• Previous leadership or senior role experience with decision-making responsibilities.

Technical Skills

• Audio: Large-format sound systems, digital mixing consoles (e.g., Yamaha, Allen & Heath), wireless microphone systems, signal flow, acoustic principles.
• Video: Projectors, LED walls, video switchers (e.g., Barco, Blackmagic Design), media servers (e.g., Playback Pro, Millumin), camera operation (PTZ and manned), IMAG, live streaming technologies.
• Lighting: Intelligent lighting fixtures, DMX control systems, lighting consoles (e.g., ETC, GrandMA, Hog), stage lighting design.
• Rigging & Staging: Basic understanding of rigging principles, truss structures, and stage mechanics for AV integration.
• Show Control: Proficiency with integrated control systems (e.g., Millumin, QLab etc.).
• Networking: Strong understanding of AV over IP, Dante, NDI, and other networking protocols for AV.
• Directing: Ability to direct crew (Cameras, Audio, Graphics, TD, etc.) to create an orchestrated feed for audience (both in-person and virtual).

Other Requirements

• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and to travel extensively as required by event schedules (ranging from a couple of days to a couple of weeks). All travel costs to be paid by Zirous. 
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Don't have all of the experience or skills? We encourage you to still apply today! We'll train you and teach you what you don't already know. We promise that you'll learn and grow within this role each day.

Benefits

• Play a vital role in the success of an exceptional team.  
• Enjoy a competitive salary along with an attractive benefits package.
• Thrive in a supportive environment that promotes both personal and professional development.
• Experience the best of all worlds with our hybrid model, combining in-office collaboration, remote work days, as well as client-based travel to one-of-a-kind venues.
• Benefit from flexible scheduling options.
• Take on thrilling and diverse projects that keep you engaged.
• Embrace flexible time off (FTO) with unlimited time off - take the time you need while still supporting your team members and clients.
• Receive paid holidays to recharge and relax.
• Access a cell phone subsidy and discounts with Verizon.
• We prioritize our employees' personal time, career aspirations, and life goals.

Zirous is an equal opportunity employer functioning under an Affirmative Action Plan.