Zilkha Hall House Audio Engineer

The-Hobby-Center-For-the-Performing-Arts; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 47,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts seeks an on-site House Audio Engineer to provide expert live sound for Zilkha Hall events. You will mix performances, assist with load-ins/outs, and support the team in maintaining and upgrading audio gear.

Ideal candidates bring strong knowledge of professional audio systems, microphones, wireless tech, Dante networking, QLab, and projection equipment, thriving in a fast-paced, team-oriented nonprofit environment.

Qualifications

• Strong technical knowledge of professional audio systems.
• Knowledge of microphones and wireless technology.
• Familiarity with Dante networking, QLab, and projection equipment.

Responsibilities

• Handle all audio needs for clients in Zilkha Hall.
• Mix live shows when needed.
• Assist with load ins/outs with other departments.
• Maintain house audio equipment and inventory.
• Recommend new equipment and systems with Production leadership.

Skills

Live sound mixing

Communication

Team collaboration

Tools

Yamaha series consoles

Rio boxes

Dante networking

QLab

Epson projectors

Shure wireless microphones

Sennheiser wireless microphones

Job description

Reports To - Zilkha Hall Production Manager

Direct Reports - N/A

Status - Full Time Non-Exempt

Location - On site at the Hobby Center campus in Downtown Houston, TX

Schedule - As needed, based on Zilkha Hall event and show calls and general maintenance of equipment.

OVERVIEW

The Zilkha Hall House Audio Engineer position provides comprehensive audio support for clients and events in Zilkha Hall, including mixing live performances and serving as an A2 backstage when needed. This role assists with load-ins and load-outs, maintains house audio equipment and inventory, and collaborates with production leadership on recommendations for new equipment and systems. The ideal candidate brings strong technical knowledge of professional audio systems, microphones, wireless technology, Dante networking, QLab, and projection equipment, along with attention to detail, effective communication skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

MAJOR FUNCTIONS

• Handle all audio needs for clients that come into Zilkha Hall.
• Mix live shows when needed.
• Assist with load ins and outs as required with other departments.
• Maintain house audio equipment and inventory.
• Share in recommendation of new equipment and systems with the Production Manager and Director of Production.

Responsibilities may be modified as needed to meet the organizational goals and employee strengths.

TRAITS AND CHARACTERISTICS

You Are

• Self-motivated, with astute attention to detail.
• An excellent communicator with strong interpersonal skills, able to work cross-functionally and collaborate with others.
• Positive, and able to remain effective under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Willing to work as part of a small team, crossing department lines to achieve event goals.

We Are

• An established, stable, mission-driven nonprofit engaged in an exciting period of growth and transformation.
• Committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive workplace that embraces diversity of people and ideas and fosters a sense of belonging.
• A high-performance collaborative culture that is supportive of your professional growth and ability to work in a sustainable, empowered way.

Skills and Qualifications

Team members at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts must thrive on challenge and be comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Working with a nimble and efficient team requires that members bring an entrepreneurial spirit to their work, providing leadership across a broad scope of work.

• Strong working knowledge of Yamaha series consoles, Rio boxes, and Dante networking.
• Knowledge of various microphones and their best uses.
• Familiarity with wireless microphones, especially Shure and Sennheiser.
• Able to mix live shows. Ability to act as an A2 backstage when needed.
• Comfortable working in QLab with audio and projection.
• Working knowledge of Epson projectors and lenses.
• Knowledge of various types of consoles and other audio equipment that clients may bring in.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds, and to climb and work at various heights as needed.

COMPENSATION

The Hobby Center offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, a 403b savings plan with matching employer contributions, mobile phone stipend, parking, and paid time off. The anticipated hiring hourly rate for this position is $41.12.

ABOUT THE HOBBY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts deepens understanding of our shared humanity. By presenting engaging performances and educational programs, we strengthen our sense of belonging to shape a more cohesive and connected Houston community. Opened in 2002, the Hobby Center campus houses two theaters including the 2,650-seat Sarofim Hall and the 500-seat Zilkha Hall. Delivering a best-in-class patron experience, the Hobby Center welcomes over 400,000 audience members annually to engage with high-quality arts programming including the Memorial Hermann Broadway at the Hobby Center series. The Hobby Center is also home to a full season of musical theatre produced by Principal Resident Company Theatre Under the Stars, as well as a variety of diverse performances from both Houston-based and touring artists and companies. Education and accessibility initiatives are central to the Hobby Center's impact in Houston through programs like the ExxonMobil Discovery Series that welcomes thousands of students to performances every season. Since 2012, the Hobby Center has been a national leader in accessibility, presenting Sensory Inclusive performances and providing exemplary customer service via its Access Team at all public events. Over the past year and a half, the Hobby Center developed and is implementing a strategic plan that drastically shifts its role in the Houston arts community. The Programming and Education Department was a result of this plan's first steps. This is an exciting time to be involved in the Hobby Center as it implements its new identity with a focus towards expanding the communities it serves and engages.

The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts is an equal opportunity employer where equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility are deeply valued.

Attachments (1)

Zilkha Hall House Audio Job Description.pdf