Media Lead

University of Iowa; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement plans

Generous leave policies

Job summary

The University of Iowa Distance & Online Education is seeking a Media Lead (100% appointment) to bring learning to life by leading the creation of studio-quality media for online courses in Iowa City.

You will guide pre-production, operate and set up recording sessions, edit content with DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Creative Cloud and Blackmagic Fusion, and collaborate with instructional designers to ensure media aligns with learning goals and supports ongoing faculty recording sessions.

Job description

The University of Iowa Distance & Online Education is hiring a dedicated Media Lead (100% appointment) Bring learning to life and lead the creation of dynamic, studio-quality media that powers online education at Iowa!

Education

The Media Lead supports faculty and staff throughout the media production process for online courses, with a primary focus on studio-based video creation. This role provides pre‑production guidance, technical setup, faculty training, and in‑studio recording support, while also operating production equipment, editing instructional media, and collaborating with faculty to create engaging, high‑quality content. Depending on individual strengths, the position may also incorporate motion graphics, visual design, 3D or real‑time media, AI‑assisted workflows, and other emerging media technologies. Working as part of the University of Iowa Distance and Online Education media team, the Media Lead collaborates with instructional designers and other staff to produce media aligned with instructional goals while maintaining studio readiness and supporting recurring faculty recording sessions. They will also have the opportunity to:

• Create instructional media using a variety of production styles and techniques, including camera operation, green screen compositing, lighting design, and on‑set audio recording.
• Edit, enhance, and finalize video content using professional tools such as DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Blackmagic Fusion. Apply and create graphics, motion graphics, minor animations, and other visual effects to enrich instructional content and improve clarity. Perform basic post‑production tasks such as noise reduction and audio sweetening to ensure clarity and consistency.
• Advise faculty on best practices for creating instructional media suited to the studio environment. Help prepare scripts, visuals, and presentation materials that align with production capabilities.
• Assist faculty with preparing for studio sessions through structured pre‑production support. Guide instructors through expectations for green screen use, wardrobe considerations, slide design, and on‑camera delivery techniques.

For a full job description, including all duties and competencies assigned, please e‑mail the contact listed below.

Visit: Job Opportunities (Org 02 & 35) to see all job opening with the Office of the Provost at the University of Iowa.

About The Department

University College serves an important role at the University of Iowa and is an academic home for numerous courses or programs that span across multiple units. The College offers two bachelor's degrees, the BAS and BLS. These programs allow students who have already received an associate’s degree, or who have prior college credit, to earn a four‑year degree. We also offer undergraduate certificate programs in: clinical and translational science, leadership studies, nonprofit management, and sustainability. In addition, several K‑12 programs are also administered through academics units that are associated with University College. University College is committed to the success of all University of Iowa students. This commitment is demonstrated in the programs and services that we offer through Orientation Services, On Iowa!, New Student Services, Academic Support and Retention, and the Academic Resource Center.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of expertise, experience, and education.
• Experience, (1‑3 years) providing media support with emphasis on media production, editing, and delivery.

Competencies Required

• Demonstrates a working proficiency level in the following competencies:
  • Ability to produce video content end‑to‑end, including camera operation, lighting, audio, editing, color correction, and delivery
  • Proficiency in setting up, operating, and troubleshooting cameras, audio systems, switching, and capture technologies
  • Demonstrated ability to manage files, production pipelines, and workflows while resolving technical challenges.
  • Ability to work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and respectful manner while appreciating the unique contribution of a workforce that brings together the talents of people across multiple identities.
  • Ability to meet or exceed customer service needs and expectations and provide excellent service in a direct or indirect manner. Ability to effectively transmit and interpret information through appropriate communication with internal and external customers.
  • Knowledge of approaches, tools, techniques for recognizing, anticipating, and resolving organizational, operational or process problems; ability to apply this knowledge appropriately to a variety of situations.
  • Understanding of effective communication concepts, tools, and techniques; ability to effectively transmit, receive, and accurately interpret ideas, information, and needs using appropriate communication behaviors.
  • Ability to quickly learn and apply new online tools and skills.
  • Ability to remain in a stationary position and move/traverse for extended periods, including moving and transporting equipment up to 50 pounds and occasionally working overhead (e.g., lighting, rigging).
  • Regularly set up, install, adjust, and maintain audio/visual equipment and cable systems in studio and recording environments, including low‑clearance or confined spaces.
  • Frequently move and position A/V equipment within studio spaces.
  • Occasionally ascend/descend ladders or step stools to install or adjust equipment.
  • Operate cameras, control interfaces, and related production equipment.
  • Ability to detect and assess recording quality, framing, and technical output.
  • Ability to work in environments with bright lighting, moderate noise, and equipment‑dense spaces.

Desirable Qualifications

• Ability to create graphics, animation, compositing, and visual assets that enhance media content
• Familiarity with 3D modeling, scene development, real‑time rendering, or virtual production workflows
• Working knowledge of AI tools, scripting, or automation to support content creation and improve workflows
• Background in creating or supporting media for teaching, training, or educational environments.

The University will not sponsor any work authorization for this role.

Work Modality

This position performed fully on‑campus and will not be eligible for remote or hybrid work arrangements.

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range

$50,000 – $60,000, with the top of the range reserved for exceptionally qualified applicants. This position includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package.

Reach out to Monica Frank to learn more about benefits, compensation practices, and career development opportunities.

Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success.

Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university‑paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well‑being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.

Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world‑class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top‑ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation.

Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.

Additional Information

• Classification Title: Instructional Serv Specialist
• Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
• Schedule: Full‑time
• Work Modality Options: On Campus

Compensation

• Pay Level: 4A
• Starting Salary Minimum: $50,000

Contact Information

• Organization: University College
• Contact Name: Monica Frank
• Contact Email: [e-mail]