Immersive Technology Lead, Texas Immersive Institute, Moody College of Communication

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Job Details:

We are seeking a full-time employee who is self-motivated but collaborative and willing to be creative in the management of their work environment. The Immersive Technology Lead is a full-time, in-person staff position at the Texas Immersive Institute (TXI) (https://immersive.moody.utexas.edu/), This position is responsible for the integration, upkeep, and advancement of immersive technology across TXI's lab, classrooms, and research initiatives. This role anchors TXI's creative and technical infrastructure, ensuring that faculty, students, and partners have the tools and mentorship needed to explore the future of storytelling and media.

Housed in the Moody College of Communication at UT Austin, the Texas Immersive Institute (TXI), aims to provide access to emerging technology and research design for artists, scientists, and humanists who use storytelling to share solutions to big problems that are responsive, responsible, and remarkable. Our goal is to be a leading voice in the future of communication and media through applied creative and research projects using a mixture of live communication methods and emerging technologies worldwide.

The Immersive Technology Lead reports to the Founding Director and will collaborate with the Senior Administrative Associate and Associate Director. This position oversees TXI's lab operations, collaborates with TXI's technical interns, and provides hands-on technical expertise for immersive projects. Working at the intersection of creative technology and academic research, the position maintains immersive systems (VR/AR, spatial audio, projection mapping, haptics, fabrication, and more), supports interdisciplinary projects, builds cross-campus relationships, and ensures TXI remains a center for innovation and access to immersive media.

Lab Operations

• Oversee daily operations of TXI's lab spaces (VR/AR, fabrication, projection mapping, and spatial audio)

• Maintain and document all equipment, including check-out systems, inventory, firmware updates, signage and lab wikis.

• Ensure lab readiness for classes, workshops, demos, and events.

• Coordinate with Facilities and IT teams on infrastructure (power, networking, AV systems, and space planning).

Research & Innovation

• Serve as a thought partner on TXI research and curriculum design, contributing technical insight and implementation support.

• Actively explore and pilot new tools to keep TXI at the forefront of immersive media.

• Contribute to applied research and lab projects that highlight TXI's innovation.

• Stay current with emerging tools in immersive tech, creative coding, spatial computing, and hybrid physical/digital fabrication

Technical Support & Creative Collaboration

• Design and prototype immersive and interactive experiences using Unreal, Unity, microcontrollers, media servers, and related pipelines. Sample toolset includes:

  • Unreal Engine (Blueprints, Metahumans, nDisplay, Python)

  • Unity (C#, XR integration)

  • Micro-Controllers (Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP32, Sensors, Actuators)

  • Media servers (TouchDesigner, Isadora, QLab, Resolume, Disguise)

• Troubleshoot software/hardware pipelines across creative media workflows (e.g., MOTU routing, spatial audio, projector alignment, haptic feedback)

• Act as a resource for demos, workshops, and cross-campus collaborations relevant to TXI's mission.

Mentorship

• Champion a culture of experimentation and skill-sharing across the Institute.

• Provide technical mentorship and training to TXI Academic Explorers and students, fostering skill-building in emerging technologies.

• Provide project assignments and skill development to tech interns.

• Foster an independent learning environment that encourages all to build technical literacy and creative problem-solving.

Other duties as assigned

• Bachelor's degree in Emerging Media, Computer Science, Interactive Design, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent professional experience.

• 3+ years of hands-on experience with immersive technologies (VR/AR systems, creative coding, projection mapping, spatial audio, fabrication tools).

• Demonstrated ability to build interactive experiences using Unreal Engine (Blueprints, component-based logic) and/or Unity (C#).

• Proven ability to manage and maintain hardware systems (3D printers, haptics, projectors, microcontrollers, audio interfaces).

• Strong technical documentation and communication skills.

• Proficiency in Vectorworks preferred.

• Experience with version control and collaborative workflows (GitHub).

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.

• Comfortable mentoring students and supporting users of varied technical skill levels.

• Master's degree in creative technology, interactive media, engineering, or related field.

• Experience in a university, research lab, or educational setting.

• Proficiency in real-time visual programming and projection mapping tools (TouchDesigner, Isadora, MadMapper, QLab, Resolume, Disguise).

• Experience with spatial audio systems (MOTU, Genelec).

• Experience with motion capture systems (OptiTrack, Captury).

• Experience with sensor technologies (Kinect, Leap Motion).

• Familiarity with authoring software (Adobe Creative Cloud, Blender, etc.).

• Working knowledge of XR optimization, particularly for VR headsets (Meta Quest).

• Knowledge of networking protocols (NDI, OSC, Artnet, MSC, MIDI, PJLink).

• Interest in creative AI tools and emerging forms of digital storytelling.

Monday through Friday (8 Hours/Day) is typical. There may also be times when the work schedule will extend beyond standard office hours based on specific business needs, including occasional weeknights and weekends.

$75,000+ Annually (Depending on experience and qualifications).

May work around standard office as well as studio audio equipment. Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation. Frequent standing and sitting and the use of manual dexterity. Lift and move standard office files and supplies. Various conditions for reporting in the field. Work hours may include occasional evenings, weekends and some holidays during peak periods to meet deadlines. Final candidate will be required to pass a background check prior to starting employment.

UT Austin is a Tobacco-free Campus.

• Resume

• Three work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor

• Letter of interest

At TXI, you'll join a vibrant community of students, faculty, and industry partners dedicated to shaping the future of immersive media. This role is an opportunity to work hands-on with emerging technologies, mentor the next generation of creators, and contribute to pioneering research and creative projects recognized nationally and internationally.

What benefits do I receive with UT? The university offers an impressive benefits package including, but not limited to:

Competitive health benefits (employee premiums covered at 100%, family premiums at 50%)

• Optional Vision, Dental, Life, and Disability insurance options.

• Generous paid vacation, sick time, and holidays.

• Teachers Retirement System of Texas, a defined benefit retirement plan.

• Additional Voluntary Retirement Programs: Tax Sheltered Annuity 403(b) and a Deferred Compensation program 457(b).

• Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses.

• Staff tuition assistance once eligible.

• Expansive employee discount program including athletic tickets.

• Free access to UT Austin's libraries and museums.

• Free rides on all UT Shuttle and Austin CapMetro buses.

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Important for applicants who are NOT current university employees or contingent workers: You will be prompted to submit your resume the first time you apply, then you will be provided an option to upload a new Resume for subsequent applications. Any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) will be uploaded in the Application Questions section; you will be able to multi-select additional files. Before submitting your online job application, ensure that ALL Required Materials have been uploaded. Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes.

Important for Current university employees and contingent workers: As a current university employee or contingent worker, you MUST apply within Workday by searching for Find UT Jobs. If you are a current University employee, log-in to Workday, navigate to your Worker Profile, click the Career link in the left-hand navigation menu and then update the sections in your Professional Profile before you apply. This information will be pulled into your application. The application is one page, and you will be prompted to upload your resume. In addition, you must respond to the application questions presented to upload any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) that were noted above.
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Employment Eligibility:
Regular staff who have been employed in their current position for the last six continuous months are eligible for openings being recruited for through University-Wide or Open Recruiting, to include both promotional opportunities and lateral transfers. Staff who are promotion/transfer eligible may apply for positions without supervisor approval.
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Retirement Plan Eligibility:
The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.
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Background Checks:
A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

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Equal Opportunity Employer:
The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

The Division of Student Affairs supports all members of the university community through our mission of developing programs and services that allow everyone to thrive and contribute to the dedicated excellence at the core of our institutional mission.

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Pay Transparency:
The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.
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Employment Eligibility Verification:
If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at the university.
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E-Verify:
The University of Texas at Austin use E-Verify to check the work authorization of all new hires effective May 2015. The university's company ID number for E-Verify purposes is 854197. For more information about E-Verify, please see the following:
* E-Verify Poster (English) [PDF]
* E-Verify Poster (Spanish) [PDF]
* Right To Work Poster (English) [PDF]
* Right To Work Poster (Spanish) [PDF]
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Compliance:
Employees may be required to report violations of law under Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). If this position is identified a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified and provided resources for reporting. Responsible employees under Title IX are defined and outlined in HOP-3031.

The Clery Act requires all prospective employees be notified of the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety report. You may access the most recent report here or obtain a copy at University Compliance Services, 1616 Guadalupe Street, UTA 2.206, Austin, Texas 78701.

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Employment Eligibility:

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Retirement Plan Eligibility:

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Background Checks:

A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

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Equal Opportunity Employer:

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer,complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

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Pay Transparency:

The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.

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Employment Eligibility Verification:

If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at the university.

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E-Verify:

The University of Texas at Austin use E-Verify to check the work authorization of all new hires effective May 2015. The university's company ID number for purposes of E-Verify is 854197. For more information about E-Verify, please see the following:

• E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) [PDF]
• Right to Work Poster (English) [PDF]
• Right to Work Poster (Spanish) [PDF]

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Compliance:

Employees may be required to report violations of law under Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). If this position is identified a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified and provided resources for reporting. Responsible employees under Title IX are defined and outlined in HOP-3031.

The Clery Act requires all prospective employees be notified of the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety report. You may access the most recent report here or obtain a copy at University Compliance Services, 1616 Guadalupe Street, UTA 2.206, Austin, Texas 78701.