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Media Systems Engineer

Lucas Museum of Narrative Art · Los Angeles, CA, USA ·

Job type:
Full Time

POSITION SUMMARY
The Media Systems Engineer is responsible for the operation, configuration, and maintenance of projection and media systems across two state‑of‑the‑art theater spaces. This role combines hands‑on projection responsibilities with advanced media systems engineering to ensure exceptional presentation quality, system reliability, and seamless integration with AV and theatrical technologies while delivering a best‑in‑class visitor experience.

The Media Systems Engineer will report to Managing Director, Technology.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Operate and maintain 35mm and digital cinema projectors and associated systems

Build, test, and manage DCP playlists with multiple files and cues

Monitor image and sound quality during screenings

Configure and maintain projection systems, media servers, and AV infrastructure

Manage signal flow across SDI, HDMI, NDI, and networked AV systems

Integrate projection with lighting, audio, and show control systems

Troubleshoot technical issues in time‑sensitive environments

Conduct preventative maintenance and system upgrades

Collaborate with Visitor Services, Production, and IT/AV teams

Maintain documentation including schematics, cue sheets, and logs

CORE COMPETENCIES
Analytical Rigor: Simplifies complex problems by using critical thinking to evaluate problems, gather information, incorporate multiple perspectives, understand causes, and identify best‑possible solutions. Invests time in planning, discovery, and reflection to drive better decisions and more efficient implementations. Adopts an audience‑centric approach, understanding the needs of the audience and incorporating them, as appropriate, into the decision.

Courageous Communication: Intentionally works well with others both on the team and cross‑functionally to achieve individual, team, department, or organizational goals. Values diverse input and working with others as a way to achieve the best output possible.

Collaborative Excellence: Displays courage when handling difficult conversations and genuinely and intentionally communicates. Relays key messages effectively, targeted to specific audiences. Identifies others' communication styles and perspectives, adjusting language and approach accordingly. Employs active listening to understand, rather than reply. Asks for, integrates, and values feedback from team, peers, and leaders.

Adaptive Resilience: Thrives and grows in a rapidly changing and complex environment. Displays flexibility, activates networks, and adopts a continuous growth mindset to learn from mistakes and bounce back from adversity.

Inclusive Interaction: Actively contributes to an environment in which all employees feel a sense of belonging, valued for their differences, and empowered to participate and contribute freely.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, up to 8 hours per shift.

Ability to move throughout multiple Museum locations, including galleries, theaters, outdoor spaces, and other public areas.

Ability to maintain an active and visible presence while providing exceptional guest service.

Ability to work in a high‑volume, public‑facing environment with large groups of guests, including school groups, tours, special events, and peak attendance periods, while maintaining professionalism, situational awareness, and composure.

Ability to frequently bend, reach, stoop, kneel, crouch, and climb stairs as needed.

Ability to occasionally lift, carry, push, and pull items weighing up to 25 pounds, including wheelchairs, stanchions, signage, guest service equipment, and other operational materials.

Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with guests and colleagues in person, by telephone, and over two‑way radio.

Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in varying environmental conditions.

Ability to maintain awareness of guest activity and surrounding conditions while monitoring galleries, queues, and public spaces.

QUALIFICATIONS

B.A. in Theater Design, Projection Design, Video Engineering, Media Systems, or Theatrical Technology preferred or equivalent experience

Proven experience working with 35mm, digital cinema projector and integrated media server

Well‑versed with DCP, ProRes, closed caption and subtitle files, as well as Dolby Audio formats

Prior role at an organization that modeled a high degree of customer service

ABILITIES
Experience with the following equipment preferred:

Projection

Christie CP4435‑RGB, Digital Cinema Projector with Dolby IMX3000 Integrated Media Server

Dolby CP950A Atmos Cinema Processor

Familiarity with DCI standards and encryption/KDM workflows

Kinoton FP‑30E Premiere Studio 35mm projectors

Audio

Dolby ATMOS

35mm optical audio

Shure ULXD4Q 4 channel receiver, lavalier microphones, and handheld transmitters

Theatrical Lighting

Stage lighting

ADA lighting

RGB LED accent lighting

$29 - $34 an hour

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND OUR COMMITMENT TO DEAIB
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art embraces diversity and equal opportunity. We are committed to building a team that represents and supports a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. The Lucas Museum fosters a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment, whether based on race, national origin, gender, gender expression, religion, ethnic background, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other criterion prohibited by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We believe that diversity and inclusion among our team is critical to our success, and we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the best qualified people from a diverse candidate pool. Applications from traditionally underrepresented communities are encouraged.

The statements in this description represent typical elements, criteria, and general work performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required for the job.

Salary and titles will be assigned commensurate to the successful candidates’ education and experience. An attractive compensation package will be offered to the successful candidate(s).

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