Immersive Video Engineer

Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE: SPHR) is a premier live entertainment and media company. The Company includes Sphere, a next-generation entertainment medium powered by cutting-edge technologies to redefine the future of entertainment. The first Sphere venue in Las Vegas opened in September 2023. In addition, the Company includes MSG Networks, which operates two regional sports and entertainment networks, MSG Network and MSG Sportsnet, as well as a direct-to-consumer and authenticated streaming product, MSG+, delivering a wide range of live sports content and other programming. More information is available at sphereentertainmentco.com.

Who are we hiring?

MSG Sphere is seeking individuals with strong experience in programming and maintaining media servers for live events and fixed installations. The Immersive Video Engineer will join a team responsible for one of the largest media server installations in the world feeding a 160,000 sq. ft. 16K x 16K domed LED media plane. You will also support playback to a 366’ tall exterior LED dome in 24/7 operation. Smaller playback systems include temporary and permanent atrium activations and feeds to IPTV and digital signage systems. The Playback Systems team will provide programming and maintenance support for events ranging from corporate events to internationally broadcast shows. Immersive Video Engineers will report to the Manager Immersive Video.

What will you do?

Systems Management

• Program and maintain the largest 7thSense installation in the world.
• Program and maintain one of the largest Disguise installations in the world.
• Responsible for ensuring 7thSense servers stay in top operational condition, including emergency repairs and scheduled maintenance.
• Work closely with Display Systems, IT and Broadcast teams to troubleshoot and resolve source of display problems and issues with ST2110 network connectivity.
• Responsible for maintaining show-critical video output to interior media plane and 24/7 exosphere display.
• Maintain accurate records of work and maintenance activities.
• Work with other departments to quickly address unresolved issues that arise in a brand-new venue, sharing knowledge and resources.
• Along with teammates, provide 100% event coverage.
• Be highly collaborative and focused on sharing details routinely and consistently with team members while self-managing assignments and working autonomously when necessary.

Business/Process Management

• In collaboration with Technical Operations, responsible for additional playback systems including atrium activations and digital signage, driven by both Disguise, 7thSense, and other systems.
• Assist in creating Standard Operating Procedures, training guides, and accurate and continually updated documentation.
• Demonstrate a persistent optimism and ability to navigate challenges in a way that produces value, exceeds expectations, and promotes company success.

What do you need to succeed?

• Must have 6+ years proven experience in high profile live production environments, including theatrical, concerts, sports, and awards shows.
• Must have advanced knowledge of all things media servers, with advanced experience in programming and maintaining multiple platforms such as 7thSense, Disguise, Pixera, and others.
• Must have a solid knowledge of networking and IP configuration.
• Must have substantial experience with both the software and hardware aspects of media servers.

Ideally, you’ll also have

• Strong preference for proven experience working in 3D spaces, with thorough knowledge of warping, ST maps, OBJ files, etc.
• Strong preference for experience working with large-scale media server installations.
• Preference for working experience with SMPTE 2110, broadcast systems, LED video walls and scripting skills such as Python and Powershell.
• Seeking additional experience, in order of preference, in Unreal, Notch, and Touch Designer.
• Familiarity with Reidel, Ross, LAWO, BlackMagic, or other broadcast systems.
• Skills that emphasize creative problem solving, strategic thinking, time management, and strong interpersonal abilities which contribute to the ability to resolve conflicts in a timely manner.
• The ability to efficiently work in a team environment but use sound business judgement and work independently when needed.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills emphasizing attention to detail.
• Adept at maintaining a positive, open, approachable, and professional relationships with a diverse group.
• Demonstrate integrity, tact, diplomacy, and a commitment to company values and principles.
• Ability to remain flexible and calm in high-pressure situations and adjust as multiple moving parts consistently change.
• Demonstrate integrity, tact, diplomacy, and a commitment to company values and principles.
• Above all, must have a love of using performance, technology, and media to bring an amazing experience to our guests.

Special Requirements

• Occasional travel (<10%) to NYC, Burbank, and trade conferences.
• Extensive standing, walking, keyboard usage and general administrative duties.
• This is a 100% onsite role, with limited potential for remote work on non-event days.
• Must be flexible with work hours; this role performs on “Production time” with many work hours taking place outside of the traditional 9-5, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Required to have completed the OSHA 10-Hour training course.