XR Engineer and Studio Support Specialist

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI

ID: 7316824
Posted: Newly posted
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Job Description

Responsibilities*
Design and implement technology solutions for XR and digital innovation projects across CAI and Ross
Maintain and optimize XR studio infrastructure, including LED walls, render engines, camera tracking, and media servers
Support synchronous operations during high-visibility live productions (e.g., Online MBA classes, Exec Ed sessions)
Collaborate with creative and technical teams to ensure seamless integration of hardware and software systems
Establish and document repeatable workflows that ensure studio reliability, scalability, and creative flexibility
Stay current on trends in XR, virtual production, and educational media, incorporating best practices into evolving studio operations
Required Qualifications*
Bachelor's degree in Network Engineering, Computer Engineering, Information Technology, Video Production or a related technical/media field - or equivalent professional experience (2+ years) in digital innovation, XR technologies, virtual production, or related areas
Demonstrated ability to interpret signal flow charts, diagnose and resolve complex technical issues in real-time with Disguise media servers (or similar), LED walls, video processors, and camera tracking systems (e.g., Blacktrax, Stype)
Hands-on experience with real-time render engines such as Unreal Engine (nDisplay, virtual camera, etc.) and Unity; familiarity with spatial asset optimization and XR pipeline integration
Knowledge of IT infrastructure and cybersecurity, including networking protocols, server management, and media storage systems (e.g., NAS, LucidLink) in production environments
Familiarity with professional camera systems, color pipelines, creative hardware integration, and technical workflows supporting broadcast and virtual production
Proficiency in media production and design tools, including Adobe Creative Cloud (Premiere, After Effects, Photoshop), DaVinci Resolve, and 3D tools like Blender or Cinema 4D
Experience working in high-stakes, fast-paced environments, such as live production, XR stages, commercial VFX, or broadcast studios, with a focus on technical reliability and innovation
Strong consultative and solution-oriented mindset, with the ability to translate creative and operational needs into scalable technical systems
Awareness of industry trends and evolving XR practices, with a systems-level understanding of media production architecture and pipeline design
Preferred experience with XR stage systems integration, including LED walls, camera tracking, and virtual production workflows
Certifications in relevant platforms or systems (e.g., Unreal Engine, AVIXA CTS, CompTIA, AWS) will be viewed favorably.
Work Schedule
This is a hybrid position supporting the University of Michigan's Center for Academic Innovation and Ross School of Business. The role requires a regular and recurring on-site presence, consistent with CAI's minimum of four-days-per-week in-person policy. Additional on-site work may be required based on domain leadership needs, project demands, or operational requirements.

Approximately 50% of this position's responsibilities involve supporting the two XR studios at the Ross School of Business. These studios operate on a time-sensitive schedule aligned with live Online MBA and Executive Education courses. Flexibility in work hours is essential, including the ability to provide on-call support outside standard business hours, including evenings and occasional weekends, when issues arise during critical sessions.