The University of New South Wales (UNSW) was established in 1949 as the “New South Wales University of Technology” to address the growing need for specialized education in science and technology post-World War II. This initiative aimed to support Australia’s transition from an agricultural economy to an industrialized nation. In 1958, reflecting its expanded academic scope beyond technology, it was renamed the University of New South Wales.
As a public research university, UNSW operates under the governance of the New South Wales government and does not have private owners. The institution is led by a Chancellor and a Vice-Chancellor. As of 2023, David Gonski serves as Chancellor and Professor Attila Brungs holds the position of President and Vice-Chancellor.
UNSW’s main campus is located in Kensington, Sydney, with additional campuses in Paddington, Canberra and the Sydney Central Business District. The university comprises several faculties, including Arts, Design & Architecture; Business; Engineering; Law & Justice; Medicine & Health; and Science. Notably, UNSW Canberra operates in partnership with the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA), providing specialized education for defense personnel.
Throughout its history, UNSW has been recognized for its contributions to various research fields, including renewable energy, quantum computing and social policy. It is a founding member of the Group of Eight, a coalition of leading Australian universities and Universitas 21, an international network of research-intensive institutions.
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The university has experienced significant growth since its inception, with student enrollment increasing from 46 students in 1948 to over 70,000 in 2023. This expansion reflects UNSW’s commitment to providing quality education and addressing the evolving needs of society through research and innovation.
Salary & Compensation Package
- Annual salary starting from $108,956, commensurate with experience
- 17% superannuation contributions
- Additional leave loading benefits
Employment Type & Work Schedule
- Job Type: Full-Time, 38 hours per week
- Work Hours: Standard office hours, no weekend work required
- Contract Duration: Permanent, continuing role
Work Location
- Based in Sydney, New South Wales (NSW)
- Primary office: Kensington Campus, UNSW
UNSW Sydney is a leading global university committed to excellence in education, research and community impact. As one of the top 20 universities worldwide, UNSW fosters a culture of innovation, inclusivity and academic excellence. The institution belongs to Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight (Go8), which represents the country’s most research-intensive universities.
With a diverse community of scholars, researchers and industry professionals, UNSW prides itself on pushing boundaries in knowledge, social impact and technological advancement. The university offers staff an environment where they can thrive professionally, engage in meaningful work and contribute to shaping the future of education and research.
By joining UNSW, employees benefit from an enriching work experience that emphasizes career growth, work-life balance and a commitment to creating a positive societal impact.
Why This Role is Essential
The Division of Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement (DSIEE) at UNSW plays a pivotal role in driving equity, diversity and community engagement initiatives. This division ensures that the university remains a key contributor to social impact by integrating research, teaching and external partnerships.
Within DSIEE, the Strategic Events Department oversees major university events, working closely with internal and external stakeholders to deliver world-class experiences. A critical function of this department is the Venue and Event Services (VES) Team, which specializes in planning and executing events across multiple locations. These include:
- UNSW CBD Campus
- Parramatta Innovation Hub
- John Niland Scientia Building
- Clancy Auditorium
- Science Theatre
The VES team handles logistics, technical support and hospitality coordination, ensuring smooth and seamless event execution. The Senior Audio-Visual Technician is integral to this process, providing expert-level audio-visual (AV) solutions, equipment maintenance and technical guidance to enhance event delivery.
This position is an exciting opportunity for an experienced AV professional who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and is passionate about cutting-edge audio, video and event technology.
Primary Responsibilities of the Senior Audio-Visual Technician
The Senior Audio-Visual Technician at UNSW is tasked with delivering top-tier AV support for university events, conferences and presentations. The role encompasses the following key responsibilities:
1. AV Operations & Event Support
- Manage and operate state-of-the-art audio-visual, lighting and live-streaming equipment for a variety of events
- Ensure high-quality technical production for conferences, lectures, panel discussions and public events
- Provide on-the-spot troubleshooting to resolve AV issues during live events
- Handle manual setup, calibration and testing of sound, video and lighting systems
- Collaborate with event organizers to ensure seamless integration of presentation and multimedia content
2. Training & Supervision of AV Staff
- Train and mentor junior AV technicians to enhance service quality
- Conduct hands-on workshops to upskill team members in new technologies and best practices
- Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for AV system operation and maintenance
- Foster a team culture centered on problem-solving, customer service and innovation
3. AV Equipment Maintenance & System Integrity
- Perform regular inspections, maintenance and upgrades of AV equipment
- Ensure compliance with industry standards for sound, video and lighting production
- Troubleshoot hardware and software issues, coordinating repairs as necessary
- Work closely with IT and engineering teams to enhance system capabilities
4. Venue Logistics & Risk Management
- Coordinate equipment transportation, installation and dismantling
- Assess and mitigate on-site risks related to AV operations
- Ensure compliance with workplace safety regulations
- Develop emergency contingency plans for technical failures and last-minute changes
5. Client Interaction & Stakeholder Engagement
- Serve as the primary AV contact for event organizers, faculty members and VIP guests
- Interpret technical requirements to provide customized AV solutions
- Communicate complex AV concepts to non-technical stakeholders
- Gather feedback from clients to continuously improve service delivery
Essential Qualifications & Skills
To be successful in this role, applicants must demonstrate the following:
Educational Background & Technical Expertise
- Tertiary qualification in audio-visual technology (or equivalent professional experience)
- Proven expertise in the installation, operation and maintenance of AV systems, including lighting, projection and live streaming equipment
- Strong understanding of technical standards and AV system design principles
- Experience managing multi-venue theatre setups with high-level technical proficiency
Work Experience & Leadership Abilities
- Previous experience as a Senior AV Technician in a high-profile event setting
- Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor and train junior AV technicians
- Track record of providing superior customer service in a professional environment
Soft Skills & Stakeholder Management
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple stakeholders, ensuring clear and effective communication
- Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in high-pressure situations
- Collaborative team player with a proactive mindset
Time Management & Work Ethic
- Exceptional time management skills, ability to handle multiple events simultaneously
- Proven ability to work autonomously and take initiative in fast-paced environments
- Commitment to delivering high-quality service under tight deadlines
Benefits of Working at UNSW
At UNSW, employees are valued and rewarded for their contributions. The university offers competitive employee benefits, including:
- Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance
- Professional development programs for career advancement
- 17% employer superannuation contributions
- Additional leave loading payments
- Three extra days of leave over the Christmas holiday period
- Exclusive staff discounts on retail, education and fitness services
For a full list of employee benefits, visit: UNSW Employee Benefits
Application Process & Deadline
How to Apply:
To be considered for this role, applicants must submit:
- An up-to-date CV
- A cover letter highlighting suitability for the role (aligned with key selection criteria)
Application Deadline:
⏳ Closing Date: 11:55 PM (AUS Eastern Daylight Time), 23rd March 2025
Important Notes:
- Sponsorship is NOT available for this role. Applicants must hold valid Australian work rights.
- Direct applications via email will not be accepted. All applications must be submitted through the UNSW career portal.
For further inquiries, contact:
- Amy Denney (Talent Acquisition Team) – a.denney@unsw.edu.au
Commitment to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
UNSW Sydney is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. The university encourages applications from:
- Women
- Individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds
- People living with disabilities
- Members of the LGBTIQ+ community
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Additionally, UNSW provides workplace accommodations for employees with disabilities and offers flexible work options for eligible staff members.
The University reserves the right to close applications early or not proceed with any appointment.