A/V Programmer

How You’ll Contribute

The National Geographic Society headquarters, based in Washington, D.C., is undergoing a significant renovation project on its campus (called Base Camp), which will be completed in 2026. The public-facing portion of this renovation will be the new National Geographic Museum of Exploration. Components of the new museum will include a state-of-the-art pavilion entrance, auditorium, iconic photo gallery, exhibition space, immersive walk-through attraction, retail, food and beverage, education center, archives, tours, and exciting new event space. The capstone of the renovation is a one-of-a-kind nighttime experience in the courtyard.

Your Impact

The AV Programmer is responsible for the functionality and reliable operations of the experiential technology at National Geographic Society’s Museum of Exploration (MOE). The AV Programmer reports to the Technical Project Manager, and will plan, develop, and update AV programming, scripts, applications, and digital content throughout the MOE and for National Geographic Society’s Traveling Exhibitions. The MOE includes interactive applications, immersive experiences, and theatrical linear media that run on a show-controlled timeline. This team will work closely with AV Technicians to ensure a zero downtime, ever-changing experience.
 

Responsibilities Include:

Operational (70%)

• Participate in the design, development, installation, and support of AV, Show Control, Lighting, and Network systems

• Program media servers and systems to deliver large scale media experiences

• Program, test, and install updated content throughout the Museum of Exploration

• Monitor the control, media, and network systems to ensure systems operate reliably and within established performance criteria for daily operations, events, and emergency scenarios

• Apply strong control, networking, and signal path troubleshooting skills

Planning (20%)

• Create AV and Control design, programming specifications, and performance specifications for projects (Concept, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, As-built drawings, and Commissioning procedures)

• Assist with technical oversight, network implementation, system configuration, red lines, and design questions during integration and commissioning of systems

• Communicate and coordinate technical design solutions with internal teams, installation teams, and creative teams

Reporting and Data Management (10%)

• Establishes KPIs to measure application and museum performance

• Presents monthly reports to department leadership on any ongoing, or resolved technical issues, as well as content updates and application usage

What You’ll Bring

Educational Background

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Entertainment Technology, Theater, or related discipline. Certifications and equivalent experience in related areas will be considered.

Minimum Years and Type of Experience

• 3+ years of work experience within the Audio/Visual programming industry

• Proven experience in at least one of the following areas: Audio system integration and programming, Video system integration and programming, Show Control integration and programming, Interactive or web based software programming and scripting

Knowledge and Skills Required

• Knowledge of audio-visual, control, networking, and lighting solutions across both live and themed entertainment industries

• Knowledge of current products and trends in audio, video, show control, and/or related industry

• Strong troubleshooting skills in control, programming, networking, and signal path 

• Understanding of industry best practices

• Excellent oral and written communication skills

• Ability to work and problem solve independently to meet deadlines

• Ability to interact positively and productively with teams across organizational lines

• Good organizational, work management, and time management skills

Desired Qualifications

• Knowledge of Show Control Systems such as ISAAC, Navigator, Q-SYS, Medialon, Node-Red, Crestron

• Knowledge of Audio processing systems such