At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead technical operations for exciting events, ensuring top-notch sound, lighting, and video.
- Company: The Union at MMU, dedicated to enhancing student experiences in Manchester.
- Benefits: Generous leave, hybrid work options, and support for your wellbeing and development.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for growth and student discounts.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant team and make a real impact in the live events industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in live events and strong knowledge of AV systems required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Union at MMU, a values-driven organisation focused on improving students’ educational experiences and building strong academic communities in Manchester, is looking for an Audio Visual Engineer to play a central role in its events and production programme.
Key Responsibilities
- Delivering day-to-day technical operations for events across The Union, including sound, lighting, video, rigging, and system operation.
- Supervising and supporting Assistant AV Technicians (student staff) during event build-ups, live operations, and de-rigs.
- Acting as the lead onsite engineer for allocated events, ensuring smooth delivery and professional technical standards.
- Supporting with technical planning, preparation, and the delivery of flagship and complex events.
- Liaising professionally with clients, artists, performers, promoters, and agents during event delivery.
- Assisting in the scheduling and coordination of student technical staff rotas.
- Carrying out routine checks, basic maintenance, fault-finding, and safe operation of technical equipment.
- Ensuring compliance with health and safety procedures on shift, including following risk assessments and safe systems of work.
- Supporting the implementation of noise management, licensing conditions, and venue procedures during events.
- Contributing to maintaining technical equipment, workspaces, stores, and accurate records as required.
- Supporting with the planning and implementation of AV infrastructure upgrades across Union commercial spaces, taking an active role in technical research.
- Participating in team planning days and assisting in key students’ union events, projects and activities throughout the year, including Welcome Week and elections.
- Raising purchase and sales orders as instructed by budget holders.
Skills and Experience
- Qualifications or equivalent experience in live events, AV, technical theatre or similar.
- Proven experience in live event technical support and experience working in a venue, events, or live entertainment setting.
- Professional experience operating industry-standard mixing consoles in a live environment and strong practical knowledge of industry-standard AV systems, including audio, lighting, and basic video.
- Extensive understanding of signal flow, system setup, and fault‑finding.
- Experience contributing to event documentation, such as technical specs, stage plots, or equipment lists.
- Enthusiasm for the live music and events industry.
- Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure with a strong sense of responsibility.
- Good communication skills and a customer‑focused approach.
- Flexibility to work evenings and weekends.
Benefits
- 26 days’ annual leave plus at least six discretionary days (four at Christmas and two at Easter) and bank holidays.
- Employer pension contribution matched up to 6%.
- Hybrid working opportunities in line with business needs.
- Supportive, needs‑based compassionate and other leave.
- Supportive maternity, paternity, adoption and partner’s leave.
- Cost of your eye test covered and £100 towards new glasses.
- An employee assistance programme to support your wellbeing.
- Plenty of opportunities for learning and development.
- Access to student discounts online and in the city.
Hours
Full‑time, 37 hours per week, including regular evening and weekend work.
Audio Visual Engineer in Manchester employer: Point 13 Jobs
The Union at MMU is an exceptional employer that prioritises the educational experience of students while fostering a vibrant and collaborative work culture in Manchester. With generous benefits such as 26 days of annual leave, matched pension contributions, and a strong focus on employee development, staff are empowered to grow within their roles. The supportive environment, combined with opportunities to engage in exciting live events, makes it a rewarding place for an Audio Visual Engineer to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Audio Visual Engineer in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with fellow AV enthusiasts. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your previous work in live events, including any technical specs or documentation you've contributed to. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to The Union at MMU or similar organisations to express your interest and ask about upcoming opportunities. A little initiative can go a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Stay flexible and open-minded! The events industry can be unpredictable, so being adaptable and willing to take on various roles can make you a more attractive candidate. Plus, it shows you're ready to jump in wherever needed!
We think you need these skills to ace Audio Visual Engineer in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for AV:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for audio-visual technology shine through! We want to see that you’re not just qualified, but genuinely excited about the live events industry and how you can contribute to our team.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in live events and technical support. We love seeing specific examples of how you've handled sound, lighting, or video in past roles. This helps us understand how you can fit into our events and production programme.
Be Professional Yet Approachable:While we appreciate professionalism, don’t forget to let your personality come through! Use a friendly tone in your application to show us that you can communicate well with clients, artists, and fellow team members during events.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Point 13 Jobs
✨Know Your AV Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge related to audio, lighting, and video systems. Be ready to discuss your experience with industry-standard equipment and how you've handled live events in the past. This will show that you're not just a fan of the industry but have the practical skills to back it up.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be supervising Assistant AV Technicians, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership skills. Share examples of how you've supported or mentored others in previous roles. Highlighting your ability to work collaboratively will resonate well with the values-driven culture at The Union.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle specific situations during events, like dealing with technical failures or managing tight schedules. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated challenges. This will help you illustrate your problem-solving skills and calmness under pressure.
✨Understand Their Values
Familiarise yourself with The Union's mission to improve students' educational experiences. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to building strong academic communities. This connection can set you apart as a candidate who truly understands their goals.
