Planetarium and Production Support Engineer

Description

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Planetarium and Production Systems Engineer provides support for all systems relating to media production and show playback, including hardware and software and networks for the Morrison Planetarium and the Academy’s Visualization Studio. This position reports to the Planetarium and Production Engineering Manager as a member of the Planetarium and Production Engineering Team.



ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Provides daily assurance of all systems in the Planetarium to ensure optimal performance.
• Performs routine maintenance to ensure readiness on all systems for the Planetarium and Visualization Studio including but not limited to system calibrations, edge blending, and color matching.
• Delivers high quality service to Visualization Studio team by solving complex technical problems and proactively helping to prevent new issues.
• Operates Planetarium Systems and supervise vendors/clients for evening events in the Planetarium.
• Provides rendering and desktop support to Visualization Studio productions ensuring completion of day-to-day rendering needs, dailies publication, and editorial publication in response to production needs.
• Works with Systems Programmer on the support and testing of render farm tools and Visualization production pipeline procedures.
• Assists and reviews hardware and software acquisition for the Planetarium and/or Visualization Studio to ensure compatibility and effectiveness.
• Maintains appropriate licensing for Planetarium and/or Visualization Studio software.
• Facilitates correction of and communication about system failures and improvements related to the Planetarium and/or Visualization Studio.
• Assists in managing technology projects and vendors that link to the Planetarium and/or Visualization Studio.
• Supports tools, applications, and methods for calibration and maintenance of systems for the Planetarium and/or Science Visualization Studio.
• Installs/de-installs equipment, and generates and maintains documentation of equipment performance history and implement system(s) to improve equipment performance.
• Collaborates and supports departments throughout the Academy with non-enterprise technology needs.
• Cross-trains with other staff within AVEE to cover weekends and holidays on a limited basis.
• Follows all Academy safety procedures and maintain a safe and clean work environment
• Adheres to the Academy Public Floor guidelines for attire, appearance, and behavior
• Other related duties as assigned.



KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of systems and electronics engineering tools.
• Computer literate (PCs, Mac, and other industrial systems and software).
• 3+ years in Systems administration experience and networking: Windows, Linux, OS X, PipelineFX Qube, Python, Maya, ProTools, Nuke, Avid, and internetworking is a plus.
• Knowledge of Unix command line (i.e., shell) tools
• Knowledge in at least two programming or scripting languages (classroom experience is acceptable) with strong emphasis in full-dome video systems.
• Ability to perform well in the context of a live event or performance.
• Ability and creativity to successfully undertake complex designs, repairs, and programming scripts to enhance operations and visitors experience.
• Must know how to generate and read schematics/diagrams (CAD).
• Ability to follow supervisor’s instructions and ask for direction and assistance when necessary.
• Ability to multi-task, perform detailed work, and successfully complete assignments in a timely manner.
• Valid California Driver’s License and clean driving record.
• Availability to work weekends/holidays and evenings.
• Knowledge of planetarium, exhibits, theatre and science visualization systems and software.
• Experience with support of high-end visualization, display, and audiovisual systems.
• Professional written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to produce quality products within tight timeframes.
• Ability to participate in group meetings.



LANGUAGE SKILLS:
Ability to read and fully comprehend documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups or individuals.



PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to work in dark, confined spaces and high areas, stand, sit, walk, and reach or manipulate with hands and arms, and talk or hear, climb a ladder or work from an elevated lift. Must be able to perform repetitive motions 50% of the time. Must be able to lift 50lbs.



The California Academy of Sciences is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes applications from individuals who will contribute to its diversity.



The California Academy of Sciences is a non-smoking facility. There is also no smoking in Golden Gate Park.