Technology Manager

School of Visual Arts•New York, NY

2d•$80,000 - $90,000•Onsite

About The Position

Under the direction of the Director of Operations, the Technology Manager oversees all technology systems that support teaching, learning, and production in the BFA 3D Animation and Visual Effects department. This role is responsible for the daily operation, performance, and continuous improvement of the department’s production studios, computer labs, and administrative systems. The Technology Manager leads a team of systems administrators supporting students, faculty, and staff across Mac- and PC-based environments. Working closely with the Director of Operations and Department Chair, this role helps plan and manage technology budgets, evaluates emerging technologies, and sets the technical strategy for a creative and dynamic academic environment. The BFA 3D Animation and Visual Effects department combines the power of CG and VFX with active imaginations, captivating stories, and skilled artistry.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, digital media, animation, visual effects, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
Three (3) years of professional experience supporting technology in a production, studio, academic, or creative environment.
Two (2) years of experience supervising or leading technical staff, student workers, or support teams.
Experience with computer art software and hardware, including PC, MAC, 3D, video, and sound equipment
Experience using helpdesk or ticketing systems to manage and prioritize support requests.
Knowledge of technology management processes, enterprise Mac and Windows environments, and network infrastructure supporting labs, studios, and classrooms
Knowledge of technology workflows used in animation, visual effects, and digital production environments
Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical audiences
Strong organizational, planning, problem-solving, and attention-to-detail skills
Ability to learn and adapt to new technologies, policies, and institutional changes
Ability to install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot hardware, software, servers, and networks
Ability to assess and maintain lab and studio readiness for instruction and production
Ability to manage helpdesk systems and prioritize competing support needs
Ability to oversee equipment repairs, warranties, and vendor-supported maintenance
Ability to lead, supervise, train, and schedule system administrators and student lab staff
Ability to establish and enforce standard operating procedures and service level agreements
Ability to manage multiple projects, deployments, and deadlines simultaneously
Ability to develop and manage technology budgets, purchases, contracts, and vendor relationships
Ability to collaborate with department leadership, campus partners, and external stakeholders
Ability to prepare documentation, reports, and routine correspondence, and keep leadership informed of system status, risks, and needs
Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders

Nice To Haves

Advanced Degree (MA, MFA, MS, or similar) in computer science, digital media, animation, visual effects, or a related field.
Six (6) or more years of progressive experience supporting production, post-production, or academic environments in animation, visual effects, film, or related creative industries.
Experience working in higher education, studio training programs, or professional production environments with students, artists, or faculty.
Experience leading a multi-disciplinary IT or production technology team.
Expertise in Mac and Windows system administration in large-scale lab, studio, or enterprise environments.

Responsibilities

Lead the department’s technology strategy for teaching, learning, and production in an animation and visual effects academic environment.
Ensure daily operational readiness and assessment of all computer labs, production studios, and administrative systems to support instruction and student production.
Supervise and manage a team of five system administrators who provide technical support to students, faculty, and staff.
Oversee the installation, configuration, and maintenance of servers, workstations, hardware, software, and peripherals.
Manage the department’s helpdesk ticketing system to ensure timely, effective support and clear prioritization of requests.
Coordinate with the SVA Network Engineering team to define, maintain, and improve the department’s network infrastructure and connectivity.
Work closely with the Director of Operations and Department Chair to develop and manage the annual technology budget and long-term technology roadmap.
Monitor system security, data integrity, and access controls, and address potential risks and vulnerabilities.
Establish, document, and enforce standard operating procedures and service level agreements for all technology services.
Plan, maintain, and oversee on-site and cloud-based solutions for rendering, machine learning, high-performance computing, archival storage, and disaster recovery.
Research, evaluate, and recommend emerging technologies, tools, and workflows that enhance animation and VFX instruction and production.
Manage vendor relationships, purchasing requests, contracts, and renewals for all technology, software, and equipment.
Develop and deliver training for incoming students, staff, and faculty on new systems, tools, and department technology policies.
Attend and actively participate in departmental meetings, IT meetings, and department events.
Develop, establish, and maintain professional relationships within the SVA community and with hardware and software vendors to ensure successful technical and facility functions.
Responsible for the research, development, acquisition, installation, and contract maintenance of all software, hardware, networks, sound, and video equipment.
Establish and oversee in-house training for student lab assistants and all staff on any/all new technology initiatives are being implemented with the Director of Operations.
Support room scheduling, lab usage, and production needs in coordination with the Director of Operations and academic leadership.
Attend conferences (domestic and international)
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.