Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Event Technician

🎯 Role Definition

Are you a tech-savvy problem-solver with a passion for creating unforgettable live experiences? This role requires a dynamic and skilled Event Technician to join our production team. As the backbone of our events, you will be responsible for the flawless setup, operation, and breakdown of all audiovisual equipment. This role requires a blend of technical expertise, on-the-spot troubleshooting, and exceptional customer service. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and love bringing a client's vision to life through technology, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

AV Assistant / Stagehand
Production Intern
Freelance Technician

Advancement To:

Lead Event Technician / Crew Chief
Technical Director
Production Manager

Lateral Moves:

Corporate AV Specialist
Broadcast Technician
Systems Integration Installer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Set up, install, configure, and operate a wide range of professional audiovisual equipment, including projectors, LED walls, microphones, audio mixing consoles, speakers, and video switchers.
Conduct thorough pre-event equipment tests and technical rehearsals to guarantee all systems are functioning perfectly and align with the event's technical script.
Provide on-site, real-time technical support during live events, conferences, and broadcasts, proactively identifying and resolving any AV issues that arise with speed and professionalism.
Collaborate directly with event planners, producers, and high-level clients to understand their technical requirements and translate their creative vision into a successful technical execution.
Manage the complete load-in and load-out of all technical equipment, ensuring the safe and efficient transport, staging, and striking of gear.
Operate live audio mixing consoles, managing numerous inputs for presenters, panels, music, and video playback to ensure clear, balanced, and feedback-free sound.
Manage video content, including presentation slides (PowerPoint/Keynote), video playback, and live camera switching to create a seamless and engaging visual experience for attendees.
Configure, program, and operate complex lighting systems, including conventional and intelligent fixtures, to create specific moods, highlight presenters, and enhance the overall event aesthetic.
Interface with venue staff, IT departments, and other external vendors to coordinate technical logistics, such as power distribution, rigging points, and internet bandwidth.
Maintain a meticulous inventory of all audiovisual assets, tracking equipment condition, usage, and location, while reporting any needs for repair, maintenance, or replacement.
Perform routine maintenance, firmware updates, and minor repairs on AV equipment to ensure it remains in optimal, show-ready working condition.
Read and interpret technical documents, including stage plots, input lists, lighting plots, and run-of-show schedules, to accurately implement the event's technical design.
Set up and operate video conferencing and webcasting/streaming hardware and software for hybrid and fully virtual events, ensuring a stable and high-quality broadcast.
Uphold and enforce strict safety standards at all times, focusing on proper cable management, secure equipment rigging, and safe electrical practices to protect crew, clients, and attendees.
Deliver exceptional customer service, serving as a calm, confident, and professional technical point of contact for clients and presenters throughout the event lifecycle.
Record high-quality audio and video of event proceedings as specified by the client, ensuring reliable capture for archival and post-production purposes.
Strike all event technology efficiently and safely post-event, ensuring it is properly packed, organized, and prepared for return to the warehouse.
Stay current with emerging technologies, trends, and best practices in the live event production industry to continuously improve our service offerings.
Prepare and quality-check equipment packages in the warehouse based on event order forms, guaranteeing all necessary components, cables, and accessories are included.
Act as the primary show operator for smaller events, cueing presentations, video rolls, and audio elements according to the event schedule.
Drive company vehicles to transport equipment to and from event venues, maintaining a clean driving record and adhering to all transportation regulations.
Troubleshoot and resolve signal flow issues across audio, video, lighting, and data networks under high-pressure, live-show conditions.

Secondary Functions

Assist in the warehouse with equipment prep, de-prep, and general organization to improve operational efficiency.
Contribute to post-event reporting, documenting technical issues, solutions, successes, and client feedback for future improvements.
Collaborate with sales and project management teams during the planning phase to provide technical insights and confirm equipment viability.
Participate in regular team training sessions and contribute to the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Audio Engineering: Proficiency with digital and analog mixing consoles (e.g., Yamaha CL/QL, Midas, Behringer X32), wireless microphone frequency coordination, and PA system design.
Video Systems: Expertise in video signal flow, projection and blending, LED wall configuration, and operation of seamless switchers (e.g., Barco, Blackmagic, Analog Way).
Lighting Operation: Strong knowledge of lighting principles, DMX, and operation of lighting consoles (e.g., GrandMA, Avolites, Chamsys) for both conventional and intelligent fixtures.
Presentation Software: Advanced skills in Microsoft PowerPoint and Apple Keynote, including troubleshooting embedded media and presenter view setups.
Streaming & Encoding: Familiarity with live streaming platforms (YouTube, Vimeo) and encoding software/hardware like OBS, vMix, or Teradek.
Power Distribution: Solid understanding of event power requirements, load calculation, and safe distribution practices.
Technical Schematics: Ability to read, interpret, and execute plans from technical drawings, stage plots, and signal flow diagrams.
Camera Operation: Basic skills in operating PTZ or manned cameras for Image Magnification (IMAG) and recording.
Networking Fundamentals: Basic knowledge of IT networking principles for configuring and troubleshooting AV-over-IP systems and control networks.
Rigging: Foundational knowledge of safe rigging principles and practices for hanging speakers, trusses, and screens.
Certifications: CTS (Certified Technology Specialist) or similar industry certifications are highly desirable.

Soft Skills

Problem-Solving: Exceptional ability to troubleshoot and think critically under pressure in a live event environment.
Communication: Clear, concise, and professional communication skills for effective interaction with clients, presenters, and team members.
Composure: A calm, patient, and professional demeanor, especially during high-stress situations and technical emergencies.
Attention to Detail: A meticulous and organized approach to setup, operation, and breakdown to ensure flawless execution.
Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively and effectively as part of a cohesive production team.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to last-minute changes, varying work schedules, and diverse event requirements.
Customer Focus: A strong commitment to providing outstanding customer service and ensuring client satisfaction.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Live Production & Design
Audio Engineering / Sound Arts
Theatre Arts (Technical Direction)
Communications or Media Studies

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

2-5 years of direct, hands-on experience in a professional live event, corporate AV, or production company environment.

Preferred:

A proven track record working on a variety of events, such as corporate conferences, trade shows, galas, and concerts.
Experience serving as a lead technician or department head (A1, V1, L1) on small to medium-sized events.