Head of Live Audio

Description The Meadows Campus production staff is the team responsible for the production implementation of all concerts, rehearsals and events which occur on the Aspen Music Festival & School’s (AMFS) Meadows Campus. These facilities include a 2,050-seat Klein Music Tent and the 500-seat Harris Concert Hall. The Head of Live Audio will be a well experienced audio engineer with crew leadership skills supporting high profile events over multiple venues. Major projects typically include such events as the annual Mariachi Celebration, a Broadway musical, opera productions, Fourth of July, the Opera Benefit, the Feast of Music gala and much more. The Head of Live Audio works under the supervision of the Production Manager and is the close counterpart to the Director of Audio and Media who oversees studio recording. Responsibilities Manage and oversee all live sound operations, including front‑of‑house and monitor mixing across multiple venues and rehearsal spaces, ensuring the highest quality sound experience befitting performers and audiences of a top ranked music festival. Configure, operate, tune, and troubleshoot venue sound systems, including speakers, amplifiers, mixing consoles, audio networking equipment, wireless and wired microphones. Install and configure communications systems (Clear‑Com) according to the requests of stage management. Collaborate with performers, directors, and production teams to achieve desired sound mixes, professionally adapting to the genre‑specific needs of classical music, opera, and Broadway musicians as appropriate. Lead, mentor, schedule and coordinate a crew of audio engineers delegating responsibilities as appropriate. Maintain a well‑organized inventory of all sound equipment, conducting maintenance where needed. Coordinate with outside vendors for rental of additional audio equipment as needed. Research and recommend new technologies within AMFS budget parameters to enhance live audio capabilities. In collaboration with the Production Manager, coordinate audio‑related aspects of event schedules, including rental deliveries, load‑in, setup, rehearsals, performances, and load‑out. Coordinate with lighting, video, and stage crews to ensure professional show execution. Fulfill keyboard and digital organ backline requests from artists. Requirements Currently pursuing or graduated with a bachelor’s degree in the field of audio engineering or 3 years professional experience in lieu of a degree. Broad knowledge of live sound equipment including proficiency in several digital consoles, speaker systems, audio networking protocols, and wireless microphone and IEM systems. Ability to design efficient power distribution and cable management. Expertise in RF coordination, frequency management, and interference troubleshooting. Knowledge of sound design techniques including speaker placement, system tuning, acoustics, and signal flow. Experience drafting audio systems in Vectorworks is a plus. Ability to create accurate and clear production documentation (input lists, speaker plots, system schematics, etc.). Demonstrated ability to lead a production crew and efficiently delegate tasks. Candidate must have sensitivity to the needs of staff, guest artists, faculty, student performers, and designers, with a proven ability to work well with others and handle high‑pressure situations with grace. Candidate must be independently motivated, with safe and confident work habits at large heights in catwalks and grids and the ability to climb stairs and ladders comfortably and repeatedly. Strong knowledge of theatrical or entertainment rigging systems is preferred. Candidate must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds of materials or of greater weight in tandem with additional crew member assistance. Candidate must have a valid driver’s license. A DMV check will be conducted for the candidate hired. Dates May 20, 2026 – August 29, 2026 Compensation $1,204.26 – $1,250/week dependent on experience, plus housing provided by AMFS. Benefits include AMFS season pass and paid sick time. Application Procedure Please complete the online application process and attach your cover letter and one‑page resume with references where prompted. PDF format only. No phone calls please. Hiring Timeline Application review to begin in January. Applicants who submit materials before February 9 will be given priority in the review process. Interviews will be scheduled to begin after February 9. Application to remain open until position(s) filled. Statement on Culture, Excellence, and Access The AMFS is dedicated to fostering a welcoming community where every individual, regardless of background or identity, feels valued and respected. We believe that an accessible environment enriches our work, encourages innovation, and drives excellence. We are committed to continuously advancing these efforts, regularly assessing and improving our policies and practices—and remain focused on creating lasting change both within our organization and the broader classical music industry. The AMFS does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on age, race, sex, gender, color, religion, national origin, disability, military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by applicable state or local law. #J-18808-Ljbffr