Manager Production Systems

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?

We are seeking a highly skilled and versatile individual to fill the role of Manager of Production Systems. This position requires a candidate with a strong background in managerial duties, technical AV integration, and an expertise in show control programming. The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic environment, possess excellent communication skills, and demonstrate a passion for integrating cutting-edge technologies into live entertainment experiences. Duties will also include integrating systems within the Venue Control System and programing centralized cue sequences triggering various subsystems (lighting, audio, video, etc.) for a variety of live and pre-programmed events. Flexibility and quick thinking are key to working in this fast-paced live production environment.

What will you do?

Business/Process Management

• Collaborate closely with the Senior Manager of Production Systems in overseeing a multidisciplinary team responsible for show control, KVMs, Production IT systems, as well as a collection of monitoring, reporting, & control tools.
• Participate in the planning, documentation, training, and commissioning of systems, ensuring seamless integration into existing infrastructure.
• Assist in the departmental tasks, such as budget planning, records upkeep, quarterly maintenance, etc.
• Coordinate with vendors to update Production Systems and Show Control hardware and software.
• Demonstrates consistently high standard of Engineering practices, assist installation of new equipment (temporary or permanent) based on the event’s needs. Understand CAD drawings and elevation

Systems Management

• Coordinate with design and production teams to implement new technologies for both residency events and permanent installations.
• Offer programming and scripting support to various production departments, including the development of custom equipment drivers, control methodologies, monitoring dashboards, and operational GUIs.
• Responsible for the architecture, development, troubleshooting, implementation, and enhancement of new and existing web and server applications.
• Monitor control / reporting tools to ensure systems operate reliably and within established performance criteria, including the storage, retrieval, and analysis of system data, logs, and the generation of reports to troubleshooting issues as they arise.

Event Management

• Program Show Control cueing for a variety of show styles including residencies, concerts, sports, live action, and corporate events.
• Serve as the Technical Manager on Duty during rotating shifts, supervising all disciplines within the Production department.
• Provide Show Control solutions, programming, or scripting for temporary and permanent Audio, Visual, Lighting, etc. Installations.
• Assist in technical advances with Artist’s representatives and troubleshoot event-day issues promptly in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment.

What do you need to succeed?

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in venue technical management role and/or integration systems management. 
• Strong leadership abilities with proven experience managing teams and the ability to remain flexible and resolute under high-pressure environments.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, strong interpersonal abilities which contribute to the ability to resolve conflicts in a timely manner, and the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders from a diverse group.
• Skills that emphasize creative problem solving, the ability to think strategically, and self-motivated with a strong sense of initiative.
• Experience in developing and implementing training programs and maintaining accurate documentation.
• Proficiency in show control programming languages such as JavaScript, and scripting languages such as Lua, Python, SQL, HMTL, CSS, Node-Red, etc.
• Experience with electronic control systems, signal processing, traditional programming languages (C++, Java, C#, etc.), and familiarity with relays and Programmable Logic Controllers.
• Experience with Show Control Systems and Operation (such as Medialon, Alcorn McBride, etc.)
• Familiarity with common live production platforms and technologies, including ETC, GrandMA, Q-SYS, LAWO, etc.
• Media Server Programming and Operation (7thSense, Disguise, Watchout, TouchDesigner, Pandoras Box, etc.)
• Experience with Smart Monkeys’ ISAAC platform and broadcast systems is a plus.
• Strong understanding of AV, IT, and network infrastructure.
• Proficiency in Visio, Bluebeam, Lucid Chart, Coda, and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).

Supervision

• Production Systems Technicians
• Show Control Operators

Note: This is a 100% onsite role with limited potential for remote work on non-event days.

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