Audio Visual Engineer; hybrid at Zirous Urbandale, IA

Audio Visual Engineer (hybrid) job andale, IA.

Zirous is a dynamic, innovative, and accomplished tech firm headquartered out of West Des Moines, 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 all things data & analytics, marketing technology, cloud adoption, enterprise integration, identity & access management, custom application development, and experience services.

In 2025, Zirous enhanced its experience services expertise by acquiring Urbandale, IA based company, Applied Art & Technology and formed Applied Art & Technology, a division of Zirous.

We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated Audio Visual Engineer to join our growing team.

The 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, often during irregular hours.

• 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 dismantlement.
• Oversee the end-to-end technical production of multiple, often complex, events simultaneously, from conception to post-event analysis.
• 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.

• 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.

• Collaborate with event planners, clients, and internal teams to understand requirements and deliver high-quality AV solutions.
• 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.
• Clearly communicate technical capabilities, limitations, and solutions to non-technical audiences.
• Ensure high levels of client satisfaction through exceptional service delivery and proactive problem-solving.

• 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.

• 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.
• Monitor financial performance and identify areas for cost savings,
• Oversee inventory and asset tracking for all AV equipment.

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

• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in live event AV production.
• Desired 3-5 years in a leadership or senior role with decision-making responsibilities.

• 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…