Audiovisual (AV) Designer

Audio Visual (AV) Designer

Location: Cedar Rapids, IA

Position Type: In-Person/Full-Time

Position: The AV Designer is responsible for investigating and designing audiovisual systems as the primary focus, along with other low-voltage building technology systems commonly found in the construction industry, including communications, infrastructure, and security-related systems. The designer will contribute to all phases of project development, from concept through construction administration.

Core Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and documentation of audiovisual (AV) systems, including schematics, risers, equipment lists, and infrastructure drawings
• Collaborate with architects, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineers, and other design consultants
• Coordinate with Divisions 26 (electrical), 27 (communications), and 28 (life safety and security) on interdisciplinary projects
• Conduct site surveys, stakeholder interviews, and needs assessments
• Prepare technical specifications and basis of design narratives
• Assist with or lead construction administration tasks, including submittal reviews, requests for information (RFIs), field observations, and system commissioning
• Monitor industry trends and evaluate emerging technologies
• Mentor junior designers or engineers

Project Delivery Responsibilities:

• Conduct site surveys for both existing facilities and new construction projects
• Participate in stakeholder meetings to gather technology requirements
• Develop system layouts and coordinate device locations in design models or drawings
• Prepare drawings and specifications for contractor bidding and construction
• Collaborate with project teams including architects, engineers, and owner representatives
• Review submittals, respond to RFIs, and attend construction meetings as part of construction administration
• Perform field observations to monitor installation progress and ensure conformance with design
• Support or lead system commissioning and final punch list activities
• Document as-built conditions and assist with project closeout deliverables

Skills and Abilities needed for the position:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Energetic and self-motivated with a strong work ethic
• Confident in presenting and guiding clients through complex AV decisions
• Familiarity with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), International Building Code (IBC), Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association (AVIXA), American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), and Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI) standards
• Demonstrate aptitude with computer applications and design software, including tools such as Bluebeam, Microsoft 365, Revit, AutoCAD, or equivalent systems used in technology layout and documentation
• Experience in the construction industry (preferred but not required)

Education and Experience requirements:

• Bachelor’s or associate degree in one of the following disciplines, or equivalent experience:
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Acoustics
  • Computer Science or Information Technology
  • Audio Technology
  • Communications Technology

Required Certifications:

• CTS (Certified Technology Specialist)

Desired Certifications:

• CTS-D (Certified Technology Specialist – Design)
• BICSI RCDD
• Manufacturer Certifications (e.g., Crestron, Extron, Q-SYS, Biamp)

Additional Position Information:

• Travel: Occasional travel to project sites is required, typically single day with no overnight stays.
• Professional Growth: Support is available for continuing education, certification advancement (e.g., CTS-D, RCDD), and manufacturer training when needed, based on project requirements or team development goals.

Why Design Engineers?

Professionally, we’re large enough to give you the opportunity to work on award-winning, nationally recognized projects while advancing your career in a stable, growing company. Culturally, DE likes to support our proactive, collaborative, and tenacious talent by fostering a healthy work-life balance. Like we always say, we want you to work to live, not live to work. We value long-term relationships, and you’ll see this value reflected in how we treat our partners, clients, and the people we hire.

DE is a full-service engineering consultant firm. We’re energized by complex building systems and driven to create high-performance solutions for our clients. Check out our portfolio and learn more about the amazing work we do.