Video Systems Supervisor

Role:                       Video Systems Supervisor

Reports to:             Chief Technical Officer

Location:               Belfast Harbour Studios, Northern Ireland 

Contract Type:      Permanent

Job Reference:      VSS/11/24

Introduction and Background

Studio Ulster Ltd is a ground-breaking large-scale Virtual Production creative technology company, established in early 2024 and set to launch in Q1, 2025 at Belfast Harbour Studios, just 10 minutes from Belfast City Centre. This £75 m, 75,000 ft² facility will house some of the most advanced virtual production facilities worldwide, including cutting-edge In-Camera Visual Effects (ICVFX) stages, alongside world class Motion Capture stages, 3D/4D Volumetric Scanning stages, and other supporting facilities. This combination of technologies under one roof at this scale is globally unique and provides one of the most advanced virtual production facilities available globally.

Studio Ulster is a strategic partnership with Belfast Harbour Studios, supported by Northern Ireland Screen, and is designed to elevate the commercial studio capability in the UK, Ireland and Europe for real-time visual effects. The complex is also home to the UKRI/AHRC-funded CoSTAR Screen Lab, a creative technologies lab focusing on real-time production, which alone unlocks nearly £11m in research investment.

This world-class facility, housed in a custom-built BREEAM Excellent facility, powered by renewal energy and supported by a highly skilled crew, is in a region renowned for its production excellence, with iconic shows like Game of Thrones made in Northern Ireland. The infrastructure needed for productions of any scale is available on our doorstep drawing productions and companies back to shoot in NI time and time again. 

Aligned with the recent government initiatives under the Creative Industries Sector Vision to grow the UK’s GDP by £50 billion and create one million jobs by 2030, Studio Ulster is poised to attract some of the largest production companies globally, as well as local and national screen industry contracts.

To drive Studio Ulster’s growth and operational excellence, we are seeking to recruit a Video Systems Supervisor.

Job Summary

The Video Systems Supervisor will oversee all technical aspects of video systems and LED volume systems management. This role is responsible for integrating client hardware, video feeds, and tools into the production pipeline, working closely with other departments to ensure seamless integration of video infrastructure within the LED volume environment. The Supervisor will manage and oversee the operation of the video distribution and monitoring systems, ensuring the integrity of the video output. You will provide strong guidance, insight, and leadership to the team operating the video systems on set. Additionally, this role will collaborate with the CTO in exploring and developing new technologies related to video systems, LED volume workflows, and real-time rendering.

Key Duties

●       Operate and maintain video distribution, monitoring, and display systems for on-set LED volume work.

●       Manage hardware for Unreal render nodes, media servers, networking equipment, display devices, and timing systems.

●       Assist with the design, setup, and maintenance of LED volume and projection systems.

●       Work with Virtual Production and the Engine team to develop and maintain a colour pipeline that meets production needs.

●       Oversee on-set operation of video systems, including distribution, LED displays, and networking.

●       Integrate corporate and broadcast video systems into the virtual production environment.

●       Ensure accurate timing and synchronization of all aspects of the video infrastructure.

●       Maintain system documentation and procedures for troubleshooting and setup.

●       Collaborate with vendors to evaluate and implement new video technologies.

●       Optimise network infrastructure for real-time video and data delivery with minimal latency.

●       Perform regular diagnostics and maintenance on video systems.

●       Ensure video systems meet industry standards for quality and broadcast compliance.

●       Other duties as assigned.

Essential Criteria

·       A degree in Engineering, Broadcast Technology, Digital Media, or a related field is preferred.

·       Familiarity with the film, TV, VFX, or creative technology sectors is desirable.

·       2-3 years of experience in a related role, ideally within sales, customer service, or the creative industries.

·       Experience with CRM systems, office productivity software such as Microsoft Office, communication tools like Microsoft Teams, and sales administration is beneficial.

·       Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage professionally with clients and team members.

·       Exceptional organisational skills, with a keen attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

·       Basic understanding of digital tools, with a willingness to learn industry-specific technologies.

·       Willingness to work outside normal office hours on occasion for special events etc international time zone meetings.

Person Specification

●       In-depth expertise in large-scale multi-source video systems.

●       Strong familiarity with SMPTE 2110.

●       Ability to handle technically complex tasks while maintaining a positive and efficient attitude under the pressures of live-action production.

●       Proficiency with Windows and/or Linux operating systems is essential.

●       Strong troubleshooting skills to diagnose and resolve issues in integrated systems involving computers, video recording equipment, software, and sensor-based systems.

●       Familiarity with a range of concepts, practices, and procedures related to visual effects and live-action film production.

●       Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and diplomatic skills.

●       Highly detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple tasks efficiently.

●       Familiarity with broadcast engineering workflows is required.

●       Preferred experience with screen management systems (e.g., Aquilon, Barco E2, Spyder X20/X80) and timing systems (sync generators, master clocks, etc.).

●       Knowledge of CAD software is recommended.

●       Familiarity with Unreal Engine or a similar real-time platform such as Disguise or Notch is beneficial.

●       Experience working in live events, productions, television, or film is required.

Working at Studio Ulster

Studio Ulster offers a competitive salary package that is commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate. This package includes a comprehensive benefits suite and bonuses which aligns with the industry standards and reflects our commitment to the wellbeing of our team.

Studio Ulster Ltd is committed to developing all employees and operates a Developmental Appraisal Review (DAR) which is mandatory. You will be required to meet with your line manager at least every year as part of the DAR process. If you have line management responsibility for other staff, you will be required to conduct DAR meetings with your staff at least once every two years.

All staff in Studio Ulster Ltd have a responsibility to comply with the company’s Equal Opportunities Policy and Health and Safety Policy. Line Managers have responsibility for ensuring compliance with these Policies within their own area.

We welcome applications from all members of society, irrespective of age, disability, sexual orientation, race, gender, religion, or belief. We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

How to apply                              

Apply now if you’re interested in being a part of an innovative new enterprise in the heart of motion picture and television.

Send your CV and a Cover Letter to our team at careers@studioulster.com

Deadline for submissions is Friday 6th November 2024

We look forward to receiving your application