Description

How You’ll Contribute

The National Geographic Society headquarters, based in Washington, D.C., is undergoing a significant renovation project on its campus (called Base Camp), which will be completed in 2026. The public-facing portion of this renovation will be the new National Geographic Museum of Exploration. Components of the new museum will include a state-of-the-art pavilion entrance, auditorium, iconic photo gallery, exhibition space, immersive walk-through attraction, retail, food and beverage, education center, archives, tours, and exciting new event space. The capstone of the renovation is a one-of-a-kind nighttime experience in the courtyard. 

Your Impact 

 The AV Programmer is responsible for the functionality and reliable operations of the experiential technology at National Geographic Society’s Museum of Exploration (MOE). The AV Programmer reports to the Technical Project Manager, and will plan, develop, and update AV programming, scripts, applications, and digital content throughout the MOE and for National Geographic Society’s Traveling Exhibitions. The MOE includes interactive applications, immersive experiences, and theatrical linear media that run on a show-controlled timeline. This team will work closely with AV Technicians to ensure a zero downtime, ever-changing experience.
 

Responsibilities Include:

Operational (70%)

Participate in the design, development, installation, and support of AV, Show Control, Lighting, and Network systems
Program media servers and systems to deliver large scale media experiences
Program, test, and install updated content throughout the Museum of Exploration
Monitor the control, media, and network systems to ensure systems operate reliably and within established performance criteria for daily operations, events, and emergency scenarios
Apply strong control, networking, and signal path troubleshooting skills
 

Planning (20%)

Create AV and Control design, programming specifications, and performance specifications for projects (Concept, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, As-built drawings, and Commissioning procedures)
Assist with technical oversight, network implementation, system configuration, red lines, and design questions during integration and commissioning of systems
Communicate and coordinate technical design solutions with internal teams, installation teams, and creative teams
 

Reporting and Data Management (10%)

Establishes KPIs to measure application and museum performance
Presents monthly reports to department leadership on any ongoing, or resolved technical issues, as well as content updates and application usage

Requirements

Educational Background

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Entertainment Technology, Theater, or related discipline. Certifications and equivalent experience in related areas will be considered.

Minimum Years and Type of Experience

3+ years of work experience within the Audio/Visual programming industry
Proven experience in at least one of the following areas: Audio system integration and programming, Video system integration and programming, Show Control integration and programming, Interactive or web based software programming and scripting
 

Knowledge and Skills Required

Knowledge of audio-visual, control, networking, and lighting solutions across both live and themed entertainment industries
Knowledge of current products and trends in audio, video, show control, and/or related industry
Strong troubleshooting skills in control, programming, networking, and signal path 
Understanding of industry best practices
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Ability to work and problem solve independently to meet deadlines
Ability to interact positively and productively with teams across organizational lines
Good organizational, work management, and time management skills
 

Desired Qualifications

Knowledge of Show Control Systems such as ISAAC, Navigator, Q-SYS, Medialon, Node-Red, Crestron
Knowledge of Audio processing systems such as Q-SYS, Barco E2, Analog Way Aquilon
Knowledge of media servers  such as Pixera, 7th Sense, Disguise, Green Hippo, Watchout
Knowledge of programming/scripting languages such as Lua, JavaScript, Node-Red, Python, Touch Designer, Unreal engine
User Interface development including HTML and CSS knowledge
Knowledge of advanced network design methods applied to AV systems (routing, VLANs, QoS, IGMP, PTP)