Audio Video Systems Integration Design Engineer

Audio-Visual Design Engineer

Smarter Systems LLC — Charlotte, NC or Winston-Salem, NC

About Smarter Systems

At Smarter Systems LLC, we design and build AV systems that actually get used.

That means no over-engineered solutions, no unnecessary complexity, and no “looks good on paper but fails in the real world.” Our focus is simple: deliver systems that are intuitive, reliable, and ready to perform day one.

Our team operates around three core principles:
On Time. On Budget. On Quality.

If that resonates—and you take pride in clean, thoughtful design—you’ll fit in well here.

The Role

We’re looking for an AV Design Engineer who can take a project from concept to reality—translating client needs into clear, buildable, and scalable system designs.

This role sits at the center of our process, working closely with sales, project management, and field teams to ensure what gets designed is what gets delivered.

This is not a “drawings-only” role. You’ll be expected to think critically, solve problems, and design systems that installers appreciate and end users actually understand.

What You’ll Do

• Design commercial AV systems for:
• Conference rooms & boardrooms
• Higher education classrooms & lecture halls
• Multi-purpose and collaboration spaces
• Develop complete design packages:
• Signal flow diagrams
• Rack elevations
• Floor plans & reflected ceiling plans
• Device layouts and system schematics
• Build accurate Bill of Materials (BOM) and Scopes of Work
• Partner with sales during pre-sales to shape practical, cost-aligned solutions
• Collaborate with Project Managers to ensure:
• Designs are executable
• Labor expectations are realistic
• Projects stay aligned with budget
• Participate in client meetings and internal design reviews
• Conduct site visits for verification and problem-solving
• Support commissioning and final system verification when needed
• Continuously evaluate new products—but apply them thoughtfully (not just because they’re new)

What You Bring

• 4–8 years of AV design, engineering, or strong field experience transitioning into design
• (We care more about capability than exact years.)
• Strong understanding of:
• AV signal flow and system architecture
• DSP platforms (Q-SYS, Biamp, etc.)
• Control systems
• UC platforms (Microsoft Teams Rooms, Zoom Rooms)
• Proficiency with:
• AutoCAD (required)
• Microsoft Office
• D-Tools, Visio, or similar tools (preferred)
• Ability to produce clear, buildable documentation (not just technically correct, but installer-friendly)
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple projects without losing quality
• Clear communicator—internally and with clients
• CTS-D preferred (not required)
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally as needed
• Former field technicians who have moved into design tend to do especially well in this role

What Makes This Role Different

• You won’t design in a vacuum.
• You’ll work directly with the people building and supporting your systems.
• We value simplicity over flash.

If you enjoy designing systems that are clean, repeatable, and actually work—you’ll thrive here.

• Your work will be visible.

You’ll see projects through, not just hand them off and move on.Faster design cycles, fewer surprises, better outcomes.

• We standardize where it makes sense.

Example Projects You’ll Work On

• University classroom standardization rollout
• Designing repeatable AV systems across dozens of learning spaces—balancing consistency, ease of use, and tight academic schedules
• Enterprise conference room deployments

Multi-room Teams/Zoom environments with a focus on clean user experience and reliable performance across locations

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $90,000 – $120,000 (based on experience and capability)
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• 401(k) with company match
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• HSA / FSA options
• Paid time off
• Life insurance
• Certification reimbursement and ongoing professional development

Location

• Charlotte, NC or Winston-Salem, NC
• Primarily in-office with occasional fieldwork

Apply

If you’re looking to design systems that people actually enjoy using—and be part of a team that takes pride in doing things the right way—we’d like to talk.

Pay: $90,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Cell phone reimbursement
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• AV Systems Design: 3 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• CTS-D (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $90,000 - $120,000