Virtual Production Systems Engineer

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Job Description

Who we are

The College of Performance, Visualization and Fine Arts (PVFA) is for students who love to imagine, create, learn, and grow. It’s for those who love to explore new ways of seeing the world and who understand the magic that can happen when beauty and technology merge. Students will gain the practical, real-world skills and theoretical frameworks needed to become leaders in the highly competitive fine arts world of the 21st century. The visual and performing arts are well-established and respected programs at Texas A&M University. They include dancers, directors, computer graphics engineers, composers, art historians, sound technologists—and much more. Effective September 1, 2022, our Dance Science, Performance Studies, and Visualization programs joined forces to combine these strengths with world-renowned Aggie expertise in science, engineering, and technology. What else is ahead? One priority is a new, $175 million, state-of-the-art performing arts building that will also be a hub of engagement, creation, and discovery for future generations of Aggies in the fine arts. Learn more about us and our exciting future at College of Performance, Visualization & Fine Arts website.

What we want

The Virtual Production Systems Engineer is responsible for the monitoring and operation of large format display LED volumes, networking, and video distribution systems. Works on complex technical projects involving the design, building, and maintenance of various components crucial to on-set display volume work and day-to-day operations, including client projects, maintenance, and internal creative efforts.

What you need to know

Salary: Commensurate

Location: Fort Worth, TX

Travel: May require occasional travel for on-location productions

Schedule: May require evening and weekend work during production periods

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Four years of experience in systems engineering, broadcast engineering, or related field

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Advanced knowledge of LED panel display systems and module LED technology
• Advanced experience with Megapixel LED processor and similar products
• Strong PC proficiency at component level
• Knowledge of camera systems and tracking systems (Stype preferred)
• Experience with broadcast engineering workflows
• Knowledge of timing systems (sync generators, master clocks)
• Experience in live events/productions/tv/film
• Advanced troubleshooting skills for complex integrated systems
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Detail-oriented with ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently
• Experience using robotic cameras and cranes
• Computers
• LED Panels and Control Systems
• Camera and Video Equipment
• Ability to lift or move equipment
• Ability to work at heights on ladders or lifts
• Visual acuity to work with detailed technical systems
• Must be able to work in dark or low-light environments

Responsibilities

LED and Video Systems Management

• Assists in the operation, maintenance, and expansion of flagship virtual production LED volume stage
• Collaborates with team to design, build, and maintain video distribution and monitoring systems
• Oversees operation of all physical aspects of LED operation and content serving
• Implements and maintains color pipeline for on-set virtual production process
• Works with production teams to meet individual project needs

Technical Infrastructure and Systems

• Works with team to design, build, and maintain hardware for render nodes and control systems
• Collaborates in designing, building, and maintaining IT network infrastructure for entire stage facility
• Manages and maintains internal stage camera package
• Assists external productions with integrating virtual production camera hardware/technology
• Implements timing systems and broadcast engineering workflows

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

• Performs preventative maintenance on all systems
• Diagnoses and resolves issues in complex integrated systems
• Manages PC maintenance and upgrade tasks
• Monitors system performance and suggests improvements
• Implements best practices for system security and data backups

Documentation and Support

• Creates system-related documents including installation procedures and maintenance protocols
• Ensures accuracy and effectiveness of systems to meet production requirements
• Supports tours, demos, and internal creative efforts
• Collaborates with VP Supervisor to ensure all hardware, software, and networking dependencies are met

Why Texas A&M University? 

We are a prestigious university with strong traditions, Core Values, and a community of caring and collaboration. Amenities associated with a major university, such as sporting and cultural events, state-of-the-art recreation facilities, the Bush Library and Museum, and much more await you. Experience all that a big city has to offer but with a reasonable cost-of-living and no long commutes. 

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums

• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays 

• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month 

• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas

• Health and Wellness: Free exercise programs and release time

• Professional Development: All employees have access to free LinkedIn Learning training, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more

• Educational release time and tuition assistance for completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee

• Living Well, a program at Texas A&M that has been built by employees, for employees

Our Commitment  

Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment by promoting a culture that respects all perspectives, talents & lived experiences. Embracing varying opinions and perspectives strengthens our core values which are: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.