Audio Visual Designer - remote/would like San Diego as home base

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Audio Visual Designer

Company: IES Communications

Location: San Diego, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales Operations / Project Engineering Support

Date Posted: July 30, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Remote (Home base in San Diego preferred)

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and engineer comprehensive audio-visual (A/V) solutions to support sales opportunities and project execution.

• Develop accurate cost estimates and define labor requirements, ensuring alignment with bid specifications and company guidelines.

• Serve as a critical liaison between sales, project management, and operations teams to facilitate seamless project handoffs and ensure cost control.

• Maintain up-to-date project information and estimates, contributing to the overall efficiency of sales and project activities.

• Uphold company standards for vendor selection, product quality, and safety throughout the design and estimating process.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges sales support and technical project engineering, with a strong emphasis on cost estimation and process adherence. The "remote/would like San Diego as home base" indicates a preference for candidates located in or willing to establish a primary residence in the San Diego area, likely for occasional in-person meetings or site visits, while the core work is remote. The "Audio Visual Designer" title, coupled with responsibilities like "project engineering" and "cost estimate," firmly places this within a GTM Operations and Sales Support function, focusing on the pre-sales and early project phases.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop complete project engineering designs, including material selection and labor basis, in response to bid specifications.

• Write detailed scopes of work and generate comprehensive cost estimates to ensure project profitability and accuracy.

• Attend site walks and pre-bid meetings to gather critical site condition information for accurate design and estimation.

• Collaborate with sales teams to present proposed solutions and understand customer requirements, acting as a technical consultant.

• Serve as the primary point of contact between sales, project management, and operations during project turnover, ensuring all design details are communicated effectively.

• Monitor sales prices against actual installation costs to identify potential variances and recommend corrective actions.

• Adhere to company guidelines for preferred vendor and product selections, negotiating pricing and lead times for materials.

• Perform floor plan takeoffs and apply company-recommended solutions and technical support insights.

• Ensure all engineering designs meet customer expectations and company quality and safety standards.

• Manage multiple projects and estimates simultaneously, consistently meeting strict bid schedules and deadlines.

• Attend and contribute to job turnover meetings, ensuring a thorough understanding of project design and execution expectations.

• Provide ongoing technical support and design assistance to sales and project teams as needed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design, sales enablement, and operational oversight. The emphasis on "cost estimate," "labor basis," and "monitor sales price and actual installation costs" points to a strong focus on financial accuracy and operational efficiency, crucial for GTM revenue operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED required.

• Associate's Degree or Bachelor's Degree in a relevant technical field is preferred. Experience:

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in Audio/Visual (A/V) or a related technical or construction field (e.g., CCTV, Card Access, Intrusion, Fire Alarm, IP network systems).

• Minimum of one (1) year of customer interface experience, acting as a liaison between the customer and the Company.

• Proven ability to design, engineer, and estimate projects, translating automation resources into written and graphic representations of proposed solutions. Required Skills:

• Crestron Experience: Demonstrated proficiency with Crestron hardware and software is essential.

• Blueprint Interpretation: High skill level to interpret blueprints, specifications, and other project documents accurately.

• Cost Estimation: Ability to develop detailed and accurate cost estimates for A/V projects, including labor and materials.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Project, and MS Access database.

Preferred Skills:

• Crestron Programming: Experience in programming Crestron systems is a significant advantage.

• Audio Visual Estimating: Three or more years of experience specifically in A/V estimating.

• CTS-D Certification: Certified Technology Specialist – Design (CTS-D) is preferred but not required.

• Project Accounting Software: Familiarity and ability to effectively utilize project-based accounting software.

• System Design Knowledge: Experience with CCTV, Card Access, Intrusion, Fire Alarm, and IP network-based systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mandatory Crestron experience and preferred Crestron programming highlight a specific technical niche within the A/V industry. The blend of design, estimating, and customer interface suggests a role that requires strong technical acumen combined with communication and project management skills, typical of a Sales Operations or Pre-Sales Engineering function.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design & Engineering Samples: Showcase examples of A/V system designs, including floor plans, equipment layouts, and wiring diagrams.

• Cost Estimation Case Studies: Present detailed cost estimates for A/V projects, demonstrating accuracy in labor and material calculations.

• Project Scope Documents: Include examples of written scopes of work that clearly define project deliverables and technical specifications.

• Vendor Negotiation Examples: If possible, provide anonymized examples or descriptions of successful vendor negotiations for materials and equipment.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate an understanding of A/V project lifecycles, from initial sales opportunity to project turnover, highlighting areas for process improvement.

• System Implementation Standards: Show evidence of adherence to quality and safety standards in design and documentation.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Illustrate how designs and estimates are reviewed against actual installation costs to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly requested, a strong portfolio demonstrating Crestron system design, detailed cost estimation, and clear scope of work documentation will be critical. Candidates should be prepared to walk through specific examples of projects where their design and estimating efforts directly contributed to successful sales outcomes and profitable installations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $90,000 - $135,000 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Full Benefits Package: Includes comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Likely includes a 401(k) with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications (e.g., CTS-D), and skill enhancement.

• Remote Work Stipend: Potential for a stipend to support home office setup and connectivity.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, approximately 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be available due to the remote nature of the role, but strict adherence to bid deadlines is paramount.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range of $90,000 - $135,000 USD is based on the provided minimum and maximum figures ($90,000/Yr and $135,000/Yr) and is appropriate for an experienced Audio Visual Designer in a remote capacity, with a preferred home base in a high-cost-of-living area like San Diego. The "Direct Hire Position with Full Benefits" statement in the job description confirms a robust benefits package.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electrical, Mechanical, and Communications Contracting Solutions. IES Communications operates within the commercial, industrial, residential, and renewable energy sectors, providing infrastructure services.

Company Size: Over 8,400 employees across more than 129 domestic locations, with over $2.3 billion in revenue (as of FY2023). This indicates a large, established organization with significant operational depth.

Founded: IES was founded to provide electrical contracting services, evolving into a national provider of industrial products and infrastructure services. The company is publicly traded on NASDAQ (IESC).

Team Structure:

• Operations & Sales Support: This role likely sits within a broader operations or sales support function, working closely with regional sales managers, project managers, and installation teams.

• Reporting Structure: Expected to report to a Sales Manager, Operations Manager, or Director of Engineering, depending on the specific departmental structure within the region.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: High degree of collaboration with sales, estimating, project management, procurement, and field installation teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using site data and client specifications to create technically sound and cost-effective A/V solutions.

• Process Adherence: Strong focus on following established company guidelines for vendor selection, product standards, and estimating procedures.

• Efficiency & Automation: Utilization of company-provided automation resources and project accounting software to streamline design and estimating processes.

Company Website: https://joinus.ies-co.com

📝 Enhancement Note: IES Communications' substantial size and market presence suggest a structured environment with established processes. For an operations role, this means a focus on scalability, standardization, and clear communication channels, which are critical for efficient GTM operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-level professional with a focus on technical design and cost estimation within the sales and project lifecycle. This role requires a blend of technical expertise and business acumen.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Sales Manager or Operations Manager responsible for regional project execution and sales support. This position acts as a key support function for revenue-generating activities.

Operations Impact: Directly influences the accuracy of sales bids, the profitability of projects, and the efficiency of project handoffs. Effective design and estimation are critical for securing business and ensuring successful project delivery, directly impacting the company's bottom line and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in Crestron and other A/V technologies, potentially leading to senior design or engineering roles.

• Project Management Track: Transition into a Project Manager role, leveraging design and estimating experience to oversee project execution.

• Sales Engineering Leadership: Advance into a Sales Engineering Manager or Director position, leading a team of designers and estimators.

• Business Development Support: Move into roles focused on strategic sales support, solution architecture, or business analysis within the GTM function.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within technical A/V design or into broader project management and GTM operations leadership, leveraging the foundational skills in estimation and client interaction.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily remote, with a preference for a San Diego home base. This suggests a hybrid approach where most work is done from a home office, but occasional travel to local client sites or regional offices might be required.

Office Location(s): While the role is remote, the company has over 129 domestic locations, indicating a broad operational footprint. The preference for a San Diego home base suggests a strong presence or client base in that region.

Workspace Context:

• Remote Office Setup: Candidates are expected to have a dedicated, professional home office space conducive to focused design work and virtual meetings.

• Technology & Tools: Access to company-provided software (e.g., Crestron design tools, MS Office, project accounting software) and reliable internet connectivity is essential.

• Team Interaction: While remote, there will be regular virtual interactions with colleagues via video conferencing, email, and collaboration platforms.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week.

• Requires flexibility to meet demanding bid deadlines and project schedules, which may occasionally necessitate working beyond standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote nature with a geographical preference implies a need for strong self-discipline, time management, and proactive communication skills to maintain team cohesion and operational effectiveness.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, experience with Crestron, and remote work suitability.

• Technical Interview: Discussion with a hiring manager or senior A/V designer to evaluate Crestron expertise, design methodology, estimating skills, and blueprint interpretation abilities. Expect technical questions and scenario-based problem-solving.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of design and estimating work samples. Be prepared to explain your process, the challenges faced, and the outcomes achieved for specific projects.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Assess self-motivation, problem-solving approach, collaboration style, and alignment with IES Communications' values.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership discussion and confirmation of offer details.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Crestron Focus: Showcase your strongest Crestron design projects, detailing the complexity and solutions implemented.

• Estimation Accuracy: Present at least one detailed cost estimate, highlighting your methodology for labor and material breakdown and how you ensured accuracy.

• Scope of Work Clarity: Provide an example of a well-written scope of work that demonstrates your ability to translate technical requirements into clear project objectives.

• Problem-Solving Examples: Be ready to discuss a challenging project where you had to overcome design or estimating hurdles, detailing your approach and the results.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate your impact (e.g., "reduced estimating time by X%", "contributed to Y% project profitability").

Challenge Preparation:

• Estimating Exercise: You might be given a set of blueprints and specifications to create a preliminary estimate or scope of work within a limited timeframe.

• Design Scenario: You may be asked to propose an A/V solution for a given scenario, detailing key components and considerations.

• Crestron Knowledge Test: Questions may cover specific Crestron products, programming concepts, or troubleshooting common design issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is critical for this role. Candidates should curate a selection of their best work that directly addresses the requirements, particularly Crestron experience, detailed estimation, and comprehensive scope of work development.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Crestron Systems: Mandatory experience with Crestron hardware and software for design and potentially programming. This includes control systems, media managers, and related A/V infrastructure.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for daily tasks, including Word (documentation), Excel (cost tracking, data analysis), PowerPoint (presentations), MS Project (project scheduling), and MS Access (database management).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Project Accounting Software: Familiarity with a project-based accounting package is required for tracking project costs and financial performance.

• CAD/Design Software: Proficiency beyond basic blueprints may be needed for detailed floor plans, wiring diagrams, and system layouts.

CRM & Automation:

• Company-Specific Software: Candidates should be prepared to learn and utilize IES Communications' proprietary or preferred project management and sales support tools.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for remote communication and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with Crestron is the non-negotiable technical skill. Experience with project accounting software and a strong command of the Microsoft Office suite, especially MS Project and MS Access, are critical for operational effectiveness.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Accuracy & Precision: A strong emphasis on detailed and accurate design and cost estimation is paramount.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment between sales, engineering, and project management is key to project success.

• Customer Focus: Understanding and meeting customer needs through effective A/V solutions and clear communication.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Driving streamlined processes and leveraging technology to achieve business objectives.

• Quality & Safety: Upholding high standards in all design and engineering work.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Communication: Regular updates and clear articulation of design and estimate details are expected, especially in a remote setting.

• Cross-Functional Partnerships: Working closely with sales to understand bid requirements and with project management to ensure smooth transitions.

• Feedback Integration: Openness to feedback from project teams on design and cost accuracy to refine future estimates.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing insights and best practices to enhance the team's overall technical and estimating capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's large size and focus on infrastructure services suggest a culture that values reliability, technical expertise, and a results-oriented approach. For an operations role, this translates to a need for diligence, clear communication, and a commitment to delivering accurate and efficient solutions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Complexity with Estimating Accuracy: Creating detailed, functional A/V designs while ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability within tight bid windows.

• Remote Collaboration: Effectively communicating and collaborating with geographically dispersed teams and ensuring all project nuances are captured.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Staying current with the fast-paced advancements in audio-visual technology, particularly within the Crestron ecosystem.

• Meeting Strict Deadlines: Consistently delivering high-quality estimates and designs under pressure to meet bid submission timelines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Crestron Certifications: Pursuing advanced Crestron certifications to deepen technical expertise and enhance marketability.

• CTS-D Training: Opportunities to gain the CTS-D certification, a recognized industry standard for AV design professionals.

• Project Management Skills: Developing skills in project planning, execution, and financial oversight through exposure to project management teams.

• Industry Conferences & Webinars: Access to industry events and online training to stay abreast of new technologies and best practices in A/V design and operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge lies in the dual demand for technical design excellence and financial accuracy, all while navigating a remote work environment and a dynamic technology landscape. Growth opportunities are strong for those who excel in these areas and seek to specialize or broaden their operational skill set.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex A/V system you designed using Crestron. What were the key challenges, and how did you address them?" (Focus on technical problem-solving and Crestron knowledge.)

• "Walk me through your process for developing a cost estimate for a large-scale A/V project. What factors do you consider most critical for accuracy?" (Highlight your estimating methodology and attention to detail.)

• "How do you ensure your designs meet both client requirements and company profitability goals?" (Demonstrate your understanding of the balance between technical solutions and business objectives.)

• "Describe a time you had to liaise between sales, project management, and installation teams. What was your role, and what was the outcome?" (Showcase your collaboration and communication skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about IES Communications and this specific Audio Visual Designer role?" (Research IES's market position and recent projects.)

• "How do you stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in the A/V industry, particularly with Crestron?" (Show your commitment to continuous learning.)

• "Describe your experience working remotely. How do you ensure productivity and effective communication with your team?" (Highlight your self-management and collaboration strategies.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structured Narrative: For each portfolio piece, clearly state the project objective, your role, the solutions you designed/estimated, the challenges you overcame, and the quantifiable results (e.g., successful bid, profitable project).

• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, screenshots, and data points to support your explanations. Ensure any sensitive financial data is anonymized or presented in a generalized format.

• Crestron Emphasis: Highlight your expertise with Crestron by explaining specific design choices and their benefits.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects efficiently, focusing on the most relevant aspects for the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare specific examples that showcase their Crestron expertise, detailed cost estimation skills, and ability to translate technical designs into profitable projects. Demonstrating an understanding of the company's business and the operational impact of the role will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Audio Visual Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the IES Communications careers portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your specific experience with Crestron, A/V design, cost estimation, blueprint interpretation, and proficiency with Microsoft Office and related project software. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 of your strongest projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in A/V design, detailed cost estimation, and scope of work development, focusing on Crestron-based solutions.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse walking through your portfolio examples, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and highlighting quantifiable achievements and problem-solving approaches.

• Research IES Communications: Understand the company's market position, services, and values to articulate your interest and cultural fit during interviews.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.