AV Architect

AV Architect

Location: Chicago, IL – Hybrid (3 days onsite in the Loop, 2 days WFH)

Travel: Required for some projects (typically 2–3 weeks at a time, but not on a monthly basis)

Summary:

This is a full-time, direct-hire opportunity with a global professional services firm that has been in operation for over 150 years, offering long-term stability and growth potential.

As the AV Architect, you’ll lead the overarching AV architecture strategy for conference rooms across the U.S. and globally. You’ll be responsible for designing integrated AV solutions using technologies like Crestron, Cisco, Zoom, MS Teams, microphone systems, and video displays. You'll collaborate with business stakeholders to define goals, design solutions, and oversee technical implementations with the support of a broader engineering and support team.

You will report to the Sr. Network Services Manager and work closely with a team of 8, including Network Engineers, Unified Communications Engineers, and AV Engineers.

Responsibilities:

• Define global AV architecture strategy and standards for conference rooms, training rooms, and moot courts
• Develop and enforce AV standards including hardware, naming conventions, and best practices
• Manage AV design and implementation projects end-to-end:
• Requirements gathering, budgeting, purchasing, system design
• Project and vendor coordination
• Testing and documentation
• Review SOWs and BOMs for accuracy and alignment with standards
• Oversee AV project budgets and coordinate maintenance agreements
• Collaborate with global AV ops teams to ensure performance across services
• Design and plan AV systems including:
• Video conferencing, audio, projection systems, flat panels, video walls
• Wired/wireless microphones, control systems, SMART boards, touchscreens
• Evaluate and implement emerging collaboration technologies to improve service and reduce costs
• Oversee installations, vendor coordination, testing, QC, and punch list resolution
• Maintain equipment lifecycle and AV inventory (VC units, sound, projectors, etc.)
• Create and maintain AV support content and documentation
• Stay up to date with AV technology trends and best practices
• Train new and existing support staff as needed
• Coordinate health checks and maintenance for AV tech
• Willingness to travel and work extended hours when required

Required Qualifications:

• 7 years of experience in AV Engineering or Architecture
• 5 years specifically in AV Design/Architecture
• Strong experience with:
• Crestron
• Cisco products
• Microsoft Teams
• AV project delivery oversight
• High School Diploma or GED (Bachelor’s Degree preferred)

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with:
• Cisco TAC
• Zoom
• Polycom
• Audio/Video IP appliances
• Networking (the more, the better)
• Programming (C, C , Python, scripting)
• EMS scheduling software
• AV, Cisco, or Networking certifications
• Bachelor’s Degree in a technical field