Audio Lead

Job Title: Audio Lead

Division: Technology

Department: Technical Productions

Reports to: Productions Manager

Position Type: Unpaid Volunteer

Location: Expected to be on-site during convention dates, including the day before and the day after for setup and teardown.

Anthro SoCal is a community-driven convention celebrating furry fandom through art, performance, gaming, and social connection. Our success depends on the dedication and enthusiasm of our volunteer team. Anthro SoCal was formally known as Another Furry Con in .

The Audio Lead is the chief architect and supervisor of the sound landscape for the space they are responsible for. This critical leadership role is responsible for the technical design, deployment, tuning, and management of audio systems within the space their team is assigned to. You will bridge the gap between high-level technical execution and team coordination – ensuring that every event sounds flawless while managing the volunteer schedules that keep the audio team running smoothly.

If you are an experienced audio specialist who thrives in fast‑paced live environments and enjoys mentoring a team, this role is for you.

• Year‑round: None.
• As convention approaches: Attend online staff meetings and trainings when requested.
• Convention weekend: On‑site presence is required with flexible hours. Must plan to work the minimum volunteer hour requirement posted on the website.
• Pre and post‑convention: On‑site presence is required to assist with setup and teardown activities the day before and the day after the event.

Your role combines expert live sound engineering with high‑level team and asset management:

• Audio Infrastructure Design: Evaluate and determine specific room audio needs (including PA systems, mixing consoles, signal routing, and microphone packages) and design the overall audio system layout.
• System Tuning & Optimization: Lead the physical deployment, room tuning, and system ringout (feedback suppression) to ensure optimal acoustic performance in challenging convention spaces.
• Backline Management: Spec, verify, and maintain all backline gear, instruments, and audio peripherals required for performers and panels.
• Schedule & Shift Coordination: Develop and maintain the volunteer shift schedule for the audio team. You will work directly with staff to assign roles, manage shift swaps, and ensure 100% technical coverage during operational hours.
• Technical Supervision: Oversee audio operators and general production volunteers, providing direction, setting standards for audio quality, and delegating tasks effectively during live shows.

Required:

• Leadership
  
  Experience:
  
  Proven ability to manage a team of technical volunteers, delegate tasks effectively, and maintain high team morale in a fast‑paced live production environment.
• Organizational Prowess: Exceptional skills in scheduling and logistics; you must be comfortable managing spreadsheets or shift‑tracking tools to maintain seamless room coverage.
• Problem‑Solving: The ability to "think on your feet" and troubleshoot under pressure, whether a critical piece of hardware breaks mid‑show or a volunteer misses their shift.
• Professionalism: Strong interpersonal skills to handle interactions with performers, high‑profile attendees, venue staff, and convention leadership with a calm, clear, and authoritative demeanor.

Preferred:

• Management Background: Professional experience in live sound management, production coordination, or stage management.
• Convention Institutional Knowledge: Previous experience working within a convention's technical or A/V department, understanding the unique constraints and fast turnaround times of conventions.
• Conflict Resolution
  
  Skills:
  
  The ability to handle stressful backstage situations or conflicting technical demands with tact and diplomatic de‑escalation.
• Technical Aptitude: Deep familiarity with modern digital mixing consoles, wireless frequency coordination, network audio protocols, and related software.

While this is an unpaid volunteer position, we provide:

• Free convention membership and staff perks.
• Staff hospitality (meals/snacks during your shifts at‑con).
• Exclusive staff events and social opportunities.
• Recognition in convention materials.
• Experience in event management and team leadership.
• A supportive, creative community environment.
• References and recommendation letters upon request.

Anthro SoCal is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, experiences, and skill levels. All volunteers must be 18 years of age or older.