Information Technology Audio/Visual Specialist

Grand Valley State University•Grand Rapids, MI

5d•Onsite

About The Position

This role supports and maintains IT and audio-visual systems across Grand Valley State University learning environments, including classrooms, laboratories, simulation centers, conference areas, event spaces, and immersive technology environments. Duties include operating, distributing, installing, configuring, repairing, maintaining, and upgrading electronic equipment, as well as responding to technical issues and providing end-user training and support. The specialist contributes to AV projects from evaluation and recommendations through design support, implementation, training, and ongoing maintenance. The role supports the Blue Dot initiative by helping maintain the technology infrastructure, learning spaces, and instructional tools that advance its academic and student-success objectives. It also helps evaluate, pilot, deploy, and support emerging extended reality (XR), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) technologies for simulation, instruction, and experiential learning. The position provides direct technical assistance to students, faculty, and staff, supervises student employees, and collaborates with internal IT teams, faculty, instructional designers, vendors, and the Project Management Office. Two positions are open: one at the City Campus in Grand Rapids and one at the Valley Campus in Allendale. Minimum starting salary is $63,000, commensurate with experience.

Requirements

High school graduation supplemented by a two-year degree in electronics or data communications, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
At least two years of experience repairing computers and peripheral equipment.
Demonstrated working knowledge of TCP/IP networking protocols and AV systems.
Knowledge of computer operating systems and electronics.
Ability to read and interpret complex electronic schematics and develop systems or signal-flow diagrams.
Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to maintain positive interpersonal relationships and provide quality customer service.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively, organize one's work, coordinate with others, and meet deadlines under pressure.
Experience working with contractors and vendors to implement projects.
Legal authorization to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.
Ability to perform the essential duties, including the physical stamina to work long hours and/or more than five days per week; reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree.
Knowledge of ITIL foundations.
AVIXA Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) certification or equivalent experience.
Supervisory experience and a demonstrated record of leading technical projects from planning through implementation.
Hands-on video and audio technology experience, including compressed video distance-learning principles, network cable and fiber-optic termination, and equipment from manufacturers such as Neat, Logitech, Shure, Extron, Crestron, and Biamp.
Familiarity with XR/VR platforms and hardware, including deployment, device management, content distribution, and the technical requirements of immersive environments.
Demonstrated ability to learn and support rapidly evolving technologies in higher education.
Flexibility to work non-standard hours as needed.

Responsibilities

Provide hands-on desktop and AV support in classrooms, labs, simulation centers, conference rooms, event spaces, and immersive/XR-enabled environments.
Provide post-implementation support for the Blue Dot project, including AV expertise, equipment readiness, space preparation, and responsive support for related programs, pilots, and events.
Deploy, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot XR/VR hardware, software, and peripherals, including headsets, tracking systems, content platforms, and network and workstation requirements, ensuring safe, sanitary, and reliable multi-user operation.
Supervise student employees, including hiring, scheduling, mentoring, and coaching.
Develop and deliver user training, instructional materials, and faculty onboarding for new and emerging technologies.
Collaborate with internal IT teams, faculty, instructional designers, and third-party vendors to resolve technical issues and assess new technologies.
Participate in the Simulation Center's monthly team meetings.
Maintain accurate inventory, configuration logs, and licensing for AV, simulation, and XR equipment across campuses.
Support in-person, remote, hybrid, distance, and immersive learning modalities by ensuring environments are optimal and operationally ready.
Partner with the Project Management Office on university IT/AV projects, including design, installation, documentation, specifications, and layouts.
Research emerging technologies, run proof-of-concept pilots, create instruction manuals, and perform other duties as assigned.