Information Technology Audio/Visual Specialist

Grand Valley State University; Grand Rapids (MI); Hybrid; USD 57,000 - 69,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, vision, dental insurance

Generous retirement contributions

Tuition waiver

Wellness resources

Job summary

Grand Valley State University is seeking an IT/AV Specialist to support and maintain IT and AV systems across classrooms, labs, simulation centers, and conference spaces. You will install, configure, repair, and upgrade equipment, provide end-user training, and address issues promptly to ensure peak performance.

The role supports the university's Blue Dot initiative, evaluating and deploying XR/VR/AR/MR technologies, and collaborating with IT, faculty, and vendors on projects and training.

Qualifications

• Two-year degree in electronics or data communications.
• Minimum of two years' experience in computer and peripheral equipment repair.
• Knowledge of TCP/IP networking and AV systems.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work with contractors and vendors.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on desktop and AV support across classrooms, labs, and conference spaces.
• Support the Blue Dot project with AV expertise, space prep, and events.
• Deploy and troubleshoot XR/VR hardware and software for immersive environments.
• Supervise student employees, schedule, mentor, and train faculty on new tech.
• Collaborate with IT teams, instructional designers, and vendors on projects.
• Maintain inventory, configuration logs, and licensing for AV and XR equipment.
• Assist PMO on IT/AV projects from design to implementation and docs.

Skills

TCP/IP networking

AV systems

Schematic reading

Customer service

Team supervision

Project collaboration

Instruction training

Education

Two-year degree in electronics or data communications

Bachelor's degree (preferred)

AVIXA CTS certification (preferred)

Tools

Neat

Logitech

Shure

Extron

Crestron

Biamp

Job description

This role is integral to a team responsible for the support and maintenance of IT and audio-visual (AV) systems across various GVSU learning environments, including but not limited to classrooms, laboratories, simulation centers, and conference areas. The position involves a wide range of duties: operating, maintaining, distributing, installing, configuring, repairing, and upgrading electronic equipment to ensure peak performance. In alignment with IT Services' dedication to the GVSU community, the incumbent will swiftly and accurately address reported technical issues while providing essential end-user training and support. The role also encompasses comprehensive execution of AV projects, from initial evaluation and recommendation through design support, implementation, training, and ongoing maintenance. This position plays a direct role in supporting and advancing the university's Blue Dot initiative ecosystem, supporting the technology infrastructure, learning spaces, and instructional tools that enable the initiative's academic and student success objectives. In addition, the incumbent will help evaluate, pilot, deploy, and support emerging technologies, including extended reality (XR), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR), as these tools are integrated into simulation, instruction, and experiential learning across campuses. This position will provide direct assistance to students, faculty, and staff on all computer, AV, and immersive technology issues. The incumbent will be expected to deliver prompt, efficient, and high-quality technical support across these diverse areas of responsibility.

Salary & Benefits:

Minimum starting salary of $63,000; commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, generous employer retirement contributions, wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire.

Primary Duties:

1. Provide hands-on desktop and AV support across university facilities, precisely classrooms, labs, simulation centers, conference rooms, event spaces, and immersive/XR-enabled environments.
2. Provide post-implementation support to the Blue Dot project through routine AV technical expertise, equipment readiness, space preparation, and responsive support for associated programs, pilots, and events.
3. Deploy, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot XR/VR hardware, software, and peripherals, including headsets, tracking systems, content platforms, and network/workstation requirements; ensuring safe, sanitary, and reliable multi-user operation.
4. Supervise student employees (hiring, scheduling, mentoring, coaching) and develop and deliver user training, instructional materials, and onboarding for faculty on new and emerging technologies.
5. Collaborate with internal IT teams, faculty, instructional designers, and third-party vendors to resolve technical issues, assess new technologies, and participate in the Simulation Center's monthly team meetings.
6. Maintain accurate inventory, configuration logs, and licensing for AV, simulation, and XR equipment across campuses, and support all learning modalities (in-person, remote, hybrid, distance, and immersive) by ensuring optimal environments and operational readiness.
7. Partner with the Project Management Office on IT/AV projects throughout the university, including design, installation, documentation, specifications, and layouts; while researching emerging technologies, running proof-of-concept pilots, creating instruction manuals, and performing other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

High school graduate supplemented by a two-year degree in electronics or data communications, or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Minimum of two years' experience in computer and peripheral equipment repair, with demonstrated working knowledge of TCP/IP networking protocols and AV systems. Demonstrated knowledge of computer operating systems and electronics, with the ability to read and interpret complex electronic schematics and develop systems or signal flow diagrams. Strong verbal and written communication skills, with a proven ability to maintain positive interpersonal relationships and provide quality customer service. Ability to work independently and collaboratively, organizing own work, coordinating with others, and meeting deadlines under pressure. Experience working with contractors and vendors to implement projects.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Bachelor's degree, ITIL foundations knowledge, and AVIXA Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) certification or equivalent experience. Supervisory experience with a demonstrated track record of leading technical projects from planning through implementation. Hands-on experience in video and audio technology, including compressed video distance learning principles, network cable and fiber optic termination, and 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 a higher education environment, with flexibility to work non-standard hours as needed.

Application Deadline:

Application review begins September 21, 2026 and this posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University.

TDD Callers:

Call Michigan Relay Center at 711 (in State) or 1-800-833-7833 (out of State).

The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as amended by the ADA Amendment Act (2008), Section504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. GVSU will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. See www.gvsu.edu/equalopportunity/.

Grand Valley State University is an Antidiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes providing equal opportunity for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. University policy extends protections to additional identities. At Grand Valley State University, we empower learners in their pursuits, professions, and purpose. The university enriches society through excellent teaching, active scholarship, advancement of equity, and public service. The GVSU community is collaborative, inclusive, self-aware, goal- and growth-oriented. We value connection with fellow Lakers, both student and professional colleagues, and strive to challenge our existing state with innovative strategies. We are dedicated to student success, and the well-being of our community as a whole. Read more about our Reach Higher 2025 strategic plan and process.