Audio Visual (AV) Technology Engineer Intern

The Ford Foundation Equity Initiative (FFEI) Internship Program at The Henry Ford is a cohort-based program that offers professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities. We invite diverse candidates* who are curious about careers in the museum world to become a part of our legacy and take it forward. For Summer 2026, internships will last 12 weeks, projected to begin on May 26th and conclude on August 21st.

• Candidates who have a disability, identify as Black, Native American, Asian, Pacific Islander, Arab, Middle Eastern, Hispanic, Latino/a/x, LGBTQIA , or who exist at the intersection of these identities are encouraged to apply. All submitted applications will be considered.
  
  

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis in the order that they are received. We encourage all interested candidates to submit applications sooner rather than later.

The Ford Foundation Equity Initiative Internship Program Overview and Time Commitment

The FFEI Internship Program’s mission is to offer opportunities in museum work to emerging professionals who identify with historically marginalized groups and to invite our interns to think outside the box and explore their careers in new ways.

Participants will engage in the program through various bi-weekly professional development workshops hosted on our Dearborn campus. Workshops typically occur on Wednesdays during the work week. It is mandatory for participants to attend, and applicants should work with their leadership to ensure proper attendance.

Attendance to our Intern Orientation is also mandatory. Our 2026 Summer Intern Orientation will occur on May 26th, 2026.

How will we work together?

The Audio Visual (AV) Technology Engineer Intern can expect to work fully on-site, which requires the ability to commute to our campus in Dearborn, MI.

We are seeking an AV Technology Engineer Intern to work alongside the Technology team for the Ford Rouge Factory Tour Facility. As a one-of-a-kind experience at The Henry Ford, from start to finish the Ford Rouge Factory Tour offers awe-inspiring encounters with America’s celebrated manufacturing past, present, and future.

You will have the opportunity to support the daily operation and maintenance of the Legacy Theater and Manufacturing Innovation Theater, which include state-of-the-art digitally controlled video projection systems, special effects, show programmed robots, lighting, and sound. You will also learn troubleshooting techniques and work through problems that may arise in the systems.

Your Primary Responsibilities Will Include

• Support the maintenance and operation of show lighting, sound effects, and audio/visual elements
• Assisting in managing technology and audio/visual set-up and takedown for special events
• Conducting safety checks of all systems, gaining valuable experience in safety protocols and procedures
• Assisting in the performance of repairs and adjustments to technology components throughout the theaters and facility
• Contribute to computer programming with theater operations.
  
  

The operations managed by the Technology team are generally 6 days per week, including daytime business hours, morning and evening events, and occasional events on Sundays. This coverage is shared across the team.

What should you have?

• Relevant audio/visual experience
• Academic background in information technology, computer science, or related field
• Ability to take direction and receive feedback
• Willingness to ask questions and ask for help
• Ability to manage complex and simultaneous processes
• Curiosity
  
  

Candidates with offstage/behind-the-scenes theater experience should also consider applying.

Application Materials

• Transcript (relevant coursework)
• Resume
• Statement of Purpose
  
  

Why work with THF?

At The Henry Ford, we are committed to helping you explore your passions, curiosities, and professional aspirations. Our goal is to create a diverse and inclusive environment where you can develop your skills and integrate all that you learn into real-world practices. You will gain exposure to not only the team you will work alongside but to what it means to work in the museum world. This is an opportunity for you to develop great work habits, communication tools, and critical thinking that will help shape your future success.

We are excited for you to come and be a part of our team. If this sounds like something you would love, please apply. We can’t wait to meet you.

Please note: International students seeking practical training are welcome to apply.

Funding for the 2026 Ford Foundation Equity Initiative Internship Program is provided by The Ford Foundation.

The Henry Ford is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

The Henry Ford prohibits discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, genetic information, pregnancy, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, physical/mental disability, marital/domestic partner status, military and veteran status, height, weight or any other such characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. This Policy applies to any employment, donor or volunteering opportunity (including but not limited to recruitment, hire, employment, program participation, promotion, salary, benefits, termination and all other terms and conditions of employment or service as a volunteer).