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Behind the Ops Desk: Who’s Who in Your AV Crew

Written by Andrew Crook | Aug 29, 2025 4:46:06 AM

When it comes to AV and production, there’s a lot more happening behind the scenes than you might expect. Understanding who’s who in your crew helps you communicate clearly, solve problems faster, and elevate your event outcomes.

Here’s a walk-through of the many faces behind the desk and on the floor who help make your event run smoothly.

 

Producer

Your go-to person from concept to close. The Producer is across everything—event goals, content, logistics, technical plans and acts as the bridge between you and the crew. They’re your advocate on the ground, ensuring your show runs to schedule and the details don’t slip through the cracks.

“The Producer is like your event compass. If something’s off track, they’ll know how to bring it back.”

Technical Director (TD)

The TD oversees the technical execution. They’re watching all systems including vision, lighting, audio, and control, making sure every element works in harmony.

Vision Operator 

This person decides what’s on screen at any moment, switching between camera feeds, content, and graphics in real-time.

Audio Operator

From lapel mics to walk-up stings, the A1 is responsible for everything you hear. They manage the mix for both the room and any broadcast streams.

Lighting Operator 

The mood-maker. The Lighting Operator designs lighting looks and operates them during the show, whether that’s subtle washes, dynamic colour changes, or pin-spotting tables.

Content Producer / Media Operator

This crew member manages and cues all digital content including slides, videos and holding screens. They’re the ones checking everything is show-ready and in the right format.

Camera Director & Camera Operators

The Director calls the shots for camera angles and manages the team of Camera Operators capturing the event. The camera mixer will work alongside the director or showcaller to transition between angles and sources, ensuring a seamless broadcast or recording. Whether you’re live-streaming or recording for post-event highlights, this is your team of visual storytellers.
 

LED Specialist

If your event uses LED screens, this specialist handles setup, alignment, configuration, and on-the-fly troubleshooting. Their work ensures your content looks sharp, vibrant and glitch-free.

Livestream Director

For hybrid or virtual components, the Livestream Director manages the online experience - video switching, audio mixing, overlays, countdowns, and transitions.

Specialised Rigger

This certified technician handles anything that hangs overhead, including lighting trusses, flown LED screens, speaker arrays, ensuring it’s safely and correctly rigged according to venue specs.

Stage Manager

Your side-stage commander. They cue presenters, manage the run sheet in real time, and ensure talent gets on stage at the right moment with the right gear.

Stage Hand / Floor Technician

The ultimate utility crew. They tape cables, swap mics, move furniture, mic-up presenters, and keep the stage clean and safe.

Set & Pack Crew

The first in, last out. These crew members bump in the gear, install the infrastructure, and pack it all down post-show. Their efficiency keeps your event running on time.

Warehouse Crew

Before the gear ever hits the truck, or the event floor, it’s been checked, packed, tested, and loaded by the Warehouse Crew. They’re the unsung heroes making sure everything arrives in top condition, from cables to consoles. Their attention to detail ensures your event starts on a solid footing, with reliable tech and minimal surprises.

 

Why it Matters

Understanding your crew gives you confidence. It helps you brief clearly, solve problems quickly, and get the best out of your production team.