AV and IT Officer jobs

AV/IT Officers are responsible for a broad range of systems which generally encompasses interior automation, entertainment, IT and some satellite systems. Essentially, they oversee the technology systems beyond the remit of a traditional ETO, which are marine electrical and electronics.

Yachts from 70m in length typically employ one person who is dual-skilled (ETO / AV/IT), or, occasionally, an AV/IT Officer who can assist the mechanical team with general maintenance. Yachts over 100m | 330ft in length will generally have both dedicated AV/IT Officers and dedicated ETO Officers on board due to the scale of technology and systems on board.

What does a yacht AV/IT Officer do? | yacht AV/IT Officer Job Description

The main task of an AV/IT Officer is to ensure that the audio-visual and satellite communication systems onboard work without interruption. 

The responsibilities of an AV/IT Officer include:

• Day-to-day maintenance of all electronic, computer, audio/visual and communications, internet and satellite connectivity, bridge systems, lights and blinds, camera systems and other equipment and ensures its efficient operation

• Performing regular backups of the yacht’s data

• Ensuring all the security systems are fully operational

• Ensuring that all planned maintenance work takes place on these systems 

• Leading AV/IT projects, writing detailed specs, reviewing quotes, following-up work execution and final commissioning in an organized, documented and trackable way

• Working according to the highest safety and security standards 

• Arranging and managing external contractor visits when needed

• AV/IT management: inventories, system condition monitoring, purchasing

• Monitoring AV/IT budget

• Continued education and qualifications

Soft and hard skills required to be an AV/IT Officer

AV/IT Officers are by nature curious and have a big appetite for learning. This is a true asset due to the fact that audio-visual equipment is constantly changing so learning is just part of the job. They are always ready to troubleshoot any issues.

AV/IT Officers need to be well presented, personable, confident and patient as they regularly have direct face-to-face contact with owners and guests who are ultra-high net worth individuals. As an AV/IT Officer, you must be able to articulate yourself in a calm manner, particularly if a client is visibly upset with an issue on board and explain in general terms how long the resolution will take or what cost implication it may have to rectify the situation.

The skills of an AV/IT Officer include:

• In-depth knowledge of audio-visual and IT systems 

• Understanding of IP Networks and Cyber Security 

• Ability to detect, assess and solve any issue that may arise

• Excellent problem-solving skills

• Excellent communication skills

• Ability to communicate with the yacht owner and guests in a calm manner

• Able to work in front of guests and setup network, devices and entertainment systems upon guest's request

• Flexible and adaptable

• A plus for an AV/IT Officer is to have a great interest and experience with videography and drone flying.

Mandatory certificates needed to work on board a yacht 

All crew members regardless of position and seniority need to have a valid STCW Basic Safety Training certificate, along with a recognised Seafarers medical certificate, the most popular being the ENG1 which is issued by an MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) professional medic. 

Without these two certificates, it is not possible for crew to work on board a yacht and a Recruiter will not be able to assist you in finding work onboard a yacht. For more information about mandatory certificates please visit our Mandatory Certificates Guide.

Are you ready to secure an AV/IT position on board a yacht?

If you are looking for work on board a yacht, submit your CV and documents via the chatbox in the bottom right corner. Our recruiters will then be in touch with you as soon as a suitable position opens up.

Each of our recruiters is specialised in crew placement for a particular department and they will do their best to get you an interview on board a yacht. They will also advise you on how to best present your experience and skills and prepare for a yacht job interview.