AV Media Systems Specialist – Museum & Exhibit Technology

Americans for the Arts; Lorton (VA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Design and Production Inc. in Lorton, VA is seeking a Media Systems Specialist to own the computers and media players that run museum exhibits. You’ll specify, configure, test and keep them running on site at museums and in our Lorton shop.

The role emphasizes Windows imaging, BIOS, drivers, and tuning; experience with Watchout, 7th Sense and Pandora’s Box is a strong plus; 5+ years in AV IT is required; bachelor’s degree or equivalent.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in IT for audio-visual applications.
• Strong Windows skills: imaging, BIOS, drivers, performance tuning, networking basics.
• Experience with Watchout, 7th Sense, Pandora’s Box or similar media servers.
• Understanding of the software development process and the ability to test code.
• Bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Responsibilities

• Configure and program media playback systems: video servers, multi-head playback PCs and dedicated platforms such as Watchout, 7th Sense and Pandora’s Box.
• Upgrade existing exhibit systems to Windows 11, test software performance and tune configurations.
• Troubleshoot live systems: BIOS settings, touch failures, frozen programs, network issues.
• Load, test and document final programs delivered by our software development partners.
• Specify delivery systems for new projects and recommend upgrades to existing ones.
• Work with the installation team, the show control programmer and the client to meet technical specifications and the owner’s security requirements.
• Work on site at museums during installs, as well as at our Lorton shop.

Skills

AV IT experience

Windows administration

Networking basics

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Watchout

7th Sense

Pandora’s Box

Job description

About the role

Design and Production Inc. (D&P) has been building museum exhibits since 1949. We integrate the technology behind them: interactive kiosks, touch tables, projection, video walls and multi-screen media shows for museums and public spaces. A single project can include 4 to more than 100 networked systems.

We’re looking for a Media Systems Specialist to own the computers and media players that run these exhibits. You’ll specify them, configure them, test them and keep them running.

What you’ll do

• Configure and program media playback systems: video servers, multi-head playback PCs and dedicated platforms such as Watchout, 7th Sense and Pandora’s Box.
• Upgrade existing exhibit systems to Windows 11, test software performance and tune configurations.
• Troubleshoot live systems: BIOS settings, touch failures, frozen programs, network issues.
• Load, test and document final programs delivered by our software development partners.
• Specify delivery systems for new projects and recommend upgrades to existing ones.
• Work with the installation team, the show control programmer and the client to meet technical specifications and the owner’s security requirements.
• Work on site at museums during installs, as well as at our Lorton shop.

What you bring

• 5+ years of hands‑on experience in IT for audio‑visual applications: media servers, playback systems, AV integration, live event or attraction technology.
• Strong Windows skills: imaging, BIOS, drivers, performance tuning, networking basics.
• Experience with Watchout, 7th Sense, Pandora’s Box or similar media servers. This is a strong plus.
• Understanding of the software development process and the ability to test code or complete applications.Clear written documentation and communication skills.
• A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Reliable attendance in Lorton or on site. Early mornings are typical.
• Flexibility to move between projects and changing schedules.

Nice to have

• AVIXA CTS certification
• Show control experience (AMX, Medialon), Extron
• Background with museums, theme parks, live events or AV integration firms

Why D&P

Your work will be seen by millions of museum visitors. You’ll join a team of 100+ specialists. Full-time employees receive paid vacation and holidays, health, dental and vision insurance, and a 401(k).

Design and Production Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other protected class status. D&P is an E-Verify Employer