Job Information
The New York Public Library Lead Media Lab Specialist in New York, New York
Lead Media Lab Specialist
Department: Branch Services & Programs
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library
Reporting To: Jenna Li
Compensation: $69,000 - $75,000 / year
Description
Overview
The New York Public Library is looking for a dynamic Lead Media Lab Specialist to join the Technology Training Programs Team to operate a vibrant public media center and recording studio in Midtown Manhattan and to develop the community through tech education.
The Lead will apply excellent audio engineering knowledge and production industry experience to manage studio operations at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library, implement educational programs in media, audio, and music production, spearhead high-impact internal and external partnerships, and oversee the professional development of staff and volunteers.
We are looking for a compassionate, technically-minded leader who loves to build programs for New Yorkers from diverse backgrounds to tell their stories creatively.
We are looking for someone we can count on to:
Own :
Operations of NYPL Recording Studio, Media Center, Labs, and equipment
Audio and video media production curriculum, educational programs, events
The supervision of a dynamic team of studio staff and volunteers in studio services
Teach :
AV Media & Production to adult learners attending Technology Training classes
Staff instructors, specialists, and volunteers seeking to upskill in studio engineering and music production
Learn:
- New and emerging technologies and production industry trends to be incorporated into classroom content
Improve :
Inefficiencies in workflows for delivering studio services
Industry-relevance of educational programs offered at NYPL
Some expectations for this role are that within:
1 month , this person will:
- Onboard, visit hub locations and branches, interact with stakeholders including Library managers, create goals with their manager
3 months , this person will:
- Identify gaps in service, present solutions, have standing meetings with stakeholders, review studio related curriculum and inventory, teach classes, host studio sessions
6 months and beyond , this person will:
- All of the above as well as positively impact TechConnect staff training, consult on equipment and software purchase/install, lead new programming initiatives, expand NYPL studios’ footprint within the organization and NYC as whole
Responsibilities
This position provides support in the following areas:
Has primary responsibility for all technology and equipment in the media center and recording studio; performs or outsources repairs as needed, and manages inventory of over 1,000 circulating and non-circulating assets
Maintains public-facing labs and editing stations in the Midtown and branch networks; coordinates with internal departments to execute initiatives that align with NYPL’s mission
Oversees the implementation of high-quality, industry-relevant educational programming on media and production for adult patrons; in the absence of a tech instructor, assists in teaching throughout NYPL branch libraries
Leads a diverse and innovative team in designing operational workflows, managing studio calendars, and offering studio services to the public
Required Education, Experience & Skills
Required Education and Certifications
Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 3 years relevant work experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Pro Tools and/or Ableton Certification preferred
Required Experience
3 – 5 years of experience in studio engineering and operations, music production or other AV production, live sound, or other related media or music industry experience
Experience in AV production workflows including:
Studio mic setup, patchbay routing and signal flow, studio design and wiring
Software: Pro Tools, Logic, Ableton, Console & plugins on Mac & PC platforms
Experience or enthusiasm for teaching adults of varying skill levels technology and media production
Proven track record of successfully managing shifting deadlines and priorities in a fast-paced environment and learning new technologies quickly
Demonstrated ability to influence management, teams, and individuals across multiple functions within the organization
Required Skills
Expert organizational skills and attention to detail to ensure smooth studio operations
Ability to solve technical problems under time pressure, confidently wire & troubleshoot AV equipment, and communicate technical needs with non-technical staff and patrons
Strong leadership and decision-making skills to mentor a diverse team, engage a vibrant studio community, and consult/advise on studio needs within the organization
Proven competence in developing and maintaining a strong network of relationships with local and national industry partners in technology, education, and production
A superb work ethic, creativity, and a drive to improve skills and learn new and emerging technologies quickly
Preferred qualifications include:
Knowledge of New York metro area, experience with NYC nonprofit preferred
Prior background in event booking, live sound, production management, multicamera recording and/or post production preferred
Experience with coding, creative design/Adobe Creative Suite, immersive technology, or 3D printing a plus
Ability to speak and write Spanish a plus
Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities
Manages Part-Time Studio Associate and coordinates other specialists, instructors, and staff in media center operations; manages multiple projects with minimal supervision
Supervises and mentors cohort of 30+ volunteer studio techs
More...
Core Values
All team members are expected and encouraged to embody the NYPL Core Values:
Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
Be Resourceful in solving problems
Be Curious in all aspects of your work
Be Welcoming and Inclusive
Work Environment
- Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library, TechConnect computer labs in SI, BX, and MA, NYPL studios, some travel as needed
Physical Duties
- Move studio equipment as needed (ex: guitars, microphones)
Pre-Placement Physical Required?
- No
Union/Non Union
- Non-Union
FLSA Status
- Non-Exempt
Schedule
35 hours per week
Typically 10 am to 6 pm (4 days during the week, one 7 hour shift Saturday or Sunday)
Evenings and weekends as needed
A hybrid work model is currently available
This job description represents the types and levels of responsibilities that will be required of the position and shall not be construed as a declaration of all of the specific duties and responsibilities for the role. Job duties may change if Library priorities change. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description as needed.
The New York Public Library Salary Statement
At the Library, we believe that pay transparency and pay equity are important to ensuring we source the best candidates and keep the best employees. When making a determination as to the appropriate salary for a candidate, we consider a variety of factors such, including, but not limited to, the position requirements, the skills, prior experience, and educational background required or preferred for the job, the scope and impact of the role within the organization, internal peer equity, and the candidate's specific training, experience, education level, and skills. No single factor is conclusive; the Library reserves the right to consider any and all relevant factors and make a decision consistent with its policies.
Union Salaries are determined by collective bargaining agreement(s).