Senior Manager, AV

Established in 1979, MOCA is the only artist-founded museum in Los Angeles. We are dedicated to collecting and exhibiting contemporary art. We house one of the most compelling collections of contemporary art in the world, comprising roughly 7,500 objects, and have a diverse history of ground-breaking, historically-significant exhibitions.

We are committed to the collection, presentation, and interpretation of art created after 1940, in all media, and to preserving that work for future generations. We provide leadership in the field by identifying and presenting the most significant and challenging art of our time, actively supporting the creation of new work, and producing original scholarship.

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.

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.

Oversee, manage and provide technical guidance and training to AV technical staff (both full time and temporary) for the safe and efficient installation and successful operation of equipment related to exhibitions, programs and events. Identify, hire, train and maintain a pool of temporary employees to assist with the execution of all projects. Hire, train, schedule, manage and mentor full time staff members.

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.