Livestream AV Technical Director /Seasonal Employment

Chautauqua Institution’s video production team delivers more than 100 live and on-demand programs each summer to audiences on our Western New York lakeside community and around the world. During a 9-week season the video channel connects lifelong learners to livestreams with inspirational ideas and conversations. Operating in a fast-paced production environment, the video team is responsible for delivering a seamless execution of all events on our YouTube channel and the archival management of those video assets. 

The Livestream AV Technical Director is responsible for the capture and broadcasting of all programs to Chautauqua Institution's paid YouTube membership channel. This position is the lead livestream switcher and monitors audio quality and also is responsible for any post-production edits to those programs which are typically minor. The livestream team works a 6-day per week schedule with hours based on production needs. 

About Your Compensation

Compensation for this position is $19.00/Hour up to $23.00/Hour with demonstrated experience.

About Your Work Day

• Utilize Vmix to provide complete and professional video and audio services to Chautauqua Institution broadcasts
• Creatively reproducing live programs to our broadcast platform(s).
• Adhere to, and help establish, visual brand standards for live-switching and audio clarity/loudness for broadcast.
• Maintain quality, consistency, and intentionality with respect to all deliverables, meeting standards of brand imprinting on produced content.
• Use provided production documents to follow run of show.
• Ensure the technical and observable quality of on-air content (video and audio) for all programming is correct.
• Direct the production of live content by calling pre-show checks, ins, outs, camera shots, and utilizing provided production information to follow events and tell a visual story — while simultaneously mixing live program audio for broadcast and post-production workflows.
• Operate and maintain broadcast audio equipment (digital consoles, microphones, , DAWs, NLEs, plugins) for optimal performance; manage multiple audio mixes (live show, pre-show sound checks, mix-minuses) simultaneously.
• Document and track changes to the audio system architecture as needed, and on a show-by-show basis.
• Report quality concern notes to Broadcast Output and Capture Technician for post-production fixes.
• Interact with the Executive Producer, Directors, presenters, technical crew, and guest/far-side artists, speakers and clergy (and their representatives) to communicate production plans and show needs.
• Perform data management with adherence to departmental/organizational rules and guidelines.
• Produce quality broadcast audio utilizing over-ear monitors (OEM) for mixing and stereo program output.
• Work collaboratively in a broadcast control room with one other technician.
• Work in a variety of environments in a safe manner. May be required to: lift up to 50 pounds, work at elevated heights, climb ladders, stairs, or other structures, and be surrounded with moderate to loud noise levels.
• Attend scheduled department meetings.
• Work asynchronously with colleagues across the organization to achieve program goals.
• Engage graciously with patrons and other constituents.
• Other assignments as necessary.

About Your Schedule

Chautauqua Institution and Chautauqua Hotel Company offer flexible schedules, full and part-time, for seasonal employment during summer operations starting annually each June and concluding in August.  Seasonal employment may be available earlier (pre-season) and beyond season (post-season) based on business needs and candidate availability.  Schedules typically include evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as a requirement.  While you will confirm your final schedule with management at the time of an interview and offer of employment, you should generally anticipate the following schedule options for this position: 

This position requires a six-day work week (from Sunday to Friday) ranging from 35 to 40 hours. Limited overtime hours may be necessary based on production needs. Scheduled hours may include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on production needs. 

About Living on the Grounds

Chautauqua Institution may provide limited housing options within a reasonable driving distance for select opportunities based on business needs.  Housing is not an option for many positions and may be of a cost to you.  Candidates should assume there are no employer-provided or employer-assisted housing options available for this position unless it is otherwise stated. 

Employer provided housing may be available with this position. Shared accommodations include a private bedroom, shared bathroom, kitchen, and living areas.

About the Referral Program

Chautauqua Institution’s Referral Bonus Program is a talent solution to recruit, develop, and retain a diverse workforce that encompasses all the skills and experience necessary to deliver on our goals and objectives. Chautauqua Institution will provide a $500 referral bonus (less taxes) for active employees referring a new candidate who is hired and remains employed for at least 90-days from the first physical date of work. In the case of seasonal positions working less than 6-months, the new candidate must remain actively employed for at least 30-days from the first physical date of work and until the closing date of the season. The closing date of the season is the last Sunday in August.

About Chautauqua Institution

Chautauqua Institution is a not-for-profit global convener of dialogue on the most significant issues of the day through engagement across four pillars of the arts, education, religion, and recreation. The Chautauqua community is located on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York State and comes alive each summer with a unique mix of visual and performing arts, lectures, interfaith worship/programs, and recreational activities.  Chautauqua Institution owns and operates Chautauqua Hotel Company, a comprehensive hotel, food & beverage, conferencing, and events organization.  

Discovering Your Chautauqua Experience

There are countless ways that our talent will engage with our mission, vision, and diverse communities, and you are invited to immerse yourself in our programming as a gateway to this experience.  Employees will receive a traditional Chautauqua gate pass, free of cost, which provides access to many of our programs at the Amphitheater.

Our Commitment to IDEA

Chautauqua Institution values Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) as a priority in our strategic plan, 150 Forward. One of our five core values is “The dignity and contributions of all people.”  We are committed to creating conditions where everyone can engage as complete and valued participants in the Chautauqua experience.  The Institution is an equal opportunity employer committed to equitable and inclusive hiring practices.  Applicants and employees will not be discriminated against based on any status protected under federal, state, or local law. We especially welcome applications from those who can demonstrate experience, engagement, and professional expertise in IDEA. 

Joining Our Talent Community

Join our talent community online at CHQ.org/employment.  You are encouraged to learn more about Chautauqua Institution at CHQ.org and view the 150 Forward Strategic Plan at 150fwd.CHQ.org