Visual Arts

The Senior Manager, AV reports to the Director of Exhibition Production and leads MOCA’s technical production and infrastructure across all departments including capital improvements; audio visual installation for MOCA’s exhibition program; and live production for MOCA performances and public programs. The Senior Manager, AV will lead the management and daily operations of the AV Department. Primary responsibilities include the supervision of all full time and temporary AV staff; overall project management from conception to implementation of all AV related to exhibitions, performances, and museum infrastructure; assisting with the development and oversight of annual departmental and project budgets. The Senior Manager, AV will provide active, collaborative leadership, identify and develop improved procedures and techniques, and work closely with curators, artists, and the full MOCA staff to design and plan AV for all exhibition, collection, performance, and event related projects as assigned. The position is tasked with creating a sustainable infrastructure aligned with MOCA’s mission, values and goals. 

The Senior Manager, AV works closely with the Director of Exhibition Production; the Producer of Performance and Programs; The Director of Operations; and Associate Director of Events and Rentals to oversee the development, organization, and technical preparation, planning, and supervision of museum exhibitions, operations, performances, and events. The position provides leadership for all technical and production needs across the institution.

Responsibilities related to exhibition installation include, but are not limited to overseeing the technical design and implementation of equipment for contemporary exhibition installations; working directly with artists to conceive the most effective installation; receiving, mounting and dispersing media-based loans and works in the permanent collection; maintaining the media-based works in MOCA’s permanent collection, in consultation with MOCA’s registration department; and overseeing the execution of projections, audio installations, and lighting. MOCA’s performance program includes the regular presentation of international performance works and new commissions spanning dance, experimental theater and music. The Senior Manager, AV will have experience in live performance production, including rigging and power distribution; as well as extensive knowledge of current industry standards in regard to equipment and safety protocols. 

The Senior Manager, AV provides technical leadership and staffing support for large museum events, including MOCA’s annual gala, as well as for rental client events, special corporate donor events, and organizational meetings and presentations.  

The Senior Manager, AV will oversee and make recommendations to improve the technical capabilities of all MOCA’s event and performance facilities including WAREHOUSE, a 14000 sq ft multi disciplinary performance space; the Ahmanson Auditorium, a 130 seat theater venue, and The David Laventhol Board Room.  

Essential Functions:

• Lead the planning, preparation, and implementation of technical installation and production for all of MOCA’s exhibitions, performances, and events.
• Oversee the retrofits and maintenance of MOCA’s performance and event spaces.
• Work with and manage staff and vendors to properly operate and maintain AV, sound and lighting equipment inventory and make recommendations for capital improvements to performance and event facilities as well as MOCA’s overall inventory.
• Oversee the maintenance and stewardship of all time-based media in MOCA’s permanent collection. Includes making recommendations for equipment upgrades, creating installation iteration reports, and inventorying and/or assessing the technical needs of incoming acquisitions.
• Ensure all technical aspects of an exhibition are maintained to an exceptional standard throughout its duration.
   

Requirements:

• A minimum of five years’ experience with a minimum of two years in a supervisory role and a proven record of delivering world class media-based installations and exhibitions; performance; and event productions in a contemporary art museum; contemporary art gallery; or multi disciplinary visual art space.
• Advanced knowledge of audio visual artworks, including historical works, with a specific focus on installation and conservation.
• Advanced knowledge of the latest innovations in audio; lighting; and projection design.
• Proven experience delivering large scale multimedia projects and world class live performances in museums or non-traditional spaces. Proven ability to work creatively and effectively with artists in order to deliver their vision with high production value and attention to detail while taking into account the budget and needs of the museum.
• Proven ability to build and lead a team, delegate effectively, and hire individuals best suited to the multi-faceted needs of the museum.
• Must be able to multitask on numerous projects while overseeing successful outcomes.
• Good relationships with Los Angeles-based vendors; contractors; and engineers
• Proficiency with Sketchup, Rhino, Auto CAD or other 2/3D design programs.
• Advanced knowledge of electrical and power distribution, particularly as relates to live performance production.
• Experience in the safe handling of artworks and technical equipment.
• Experience in audio and video editing and archiving.
• Must be able to work evenings and weekends as required.

Rate: $80,000 – $85,000 annually

Covered by MOCA/AFSCME Collective Bargaining Agreement: No

Physical Demands:

While performing the essential functions of this job, the incumbent must be able to do the following: sit/stand for extended periods of time, bend and reach for filing and other job-related functions, climb up and down stairs/ladders, bend, stoop, and extend to move and retrieve materials, pull, push, and lift, reach both above and below shoulder height, be able to lift up to 50 pounds. Must be able to visually inspect work. Specific visual abilities include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Adept auditory perception, including closely distinguishing and understanding sound mix and audio levels. Manual dexterity to operate computer and other office equipment required. Heavy usage of computers and phones required.

The physical demands described above are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made.

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role.