Explore Career Paths in the AV & Custom Integration Industry
The CI space is full of exciting opportunities for professionals ready to make an impact in a rapidly growing industry. From hands-on technical roles to leadership positions, every path offers room for advancement and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology, plus other talented professionals like yourself. Below, you’ll find paths for seasoned professionals in the industry and those just starting their career journeys. Amplify People is proud to be your partner in exploring possibilities and uncovering potential career paths that align with your goals and aspirations.
Join a Growing Industry:
Find the Right Career Path for Your Skills
The AV and custom integration industry offers a wealth of career opportunities for individuals with diverse backgrounds and skills from related industries. Professionals from fields such as IT, construction, security, architecture, interior design, electrical work, engineering, and customer service often find their expertise aligns well with the technical, project-driven nature of this industry. Additionally, experience in roles like project management, operations management, sales, or finance can seamlessly transition into integral positions within technology integration businesses.
Whether you're drawn to the AV and custom integration industry for the love of technology or the chance to work in some of the most beautiful locations and high-end homes, there's a path for you here. Many businesses in this industry are small and agile, offering a refreshing alternative to large corporations. This means your contributions can make a tangible impact, and your work truly matters. The combination of meaningful work and unique experiences makes this a fulfilling and exciting career choice. Explore common career paths in this industry below.
Technician
Technicians are the backbone of the custom integration industry, transforming advanced technology into real-world solutions in homes and businesses. In this hands-on role, you’ll install, program, and troubleshoot cutting-edge systems, from immersive home theaters and smart home automation to lighting control, security systems, conferencing technologies, and more. Each day brings new challenges and the satisfaction of seeing your work create lasting experiences for clients.
Job Titles
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AV Technician I, II, or III
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Lead Installer
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Field Technician
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Service Technician
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Cable Installer
Career Progression
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Lead Technician
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Field Supervisor
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Systems Design
Background
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Education
High school diploma or equivalent; technical trade school preferred; or equivalent experience
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Certifications
CEDIA Cabling & Infrastructure Technician (CIT), AVIXA CTS (Certified Technology Specialist)
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Experience
Hands-on experience with cable installation, system configuration, or smart home technologies. A background in electrical, networking, or technical troubleshooting.
Project Manager
Project managers ensure every installation is a success, seamlessly managing timelines, budgets, client expectations, and team collaboration from start to finish. In this pivotal role, you’ll coordinate resources, remove challenges and roadblocks to project completion, and maintain client satisfaction while delivering complex projects on time and within budget. It’s a fast-paced, highly rewarding career for those who thrive on dynamic problem-solving and leadership.
Job Titles
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Project Manager
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AV Project Coordinator
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Program Manager
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Senior Project Manager
Career Progression
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General Manager
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Operations Director
Background
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Education
Degree in business, engineering, or related field; project management certifications are a plus; or equivalent experience
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Certifications
NSCA Project Management certifications, PMP (Project Management Professional)
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Experience
Background in AV installations, construction projects, or technology rollouts. Familiarity with iPoint, Asana, or similar project management platforms. Strong organizational and leadership skills with experience in budget management.
Systems Design
Systems designers bring creativity and technical expertise together to develop custom technology solutions tailored to client needs. From drafting layouts to choosing best-in-class components like AV equipment and control hubs, you’ll be instrumental in shaping how technology fits seamlessly into homes or businesses. You’ll also gain the opportunity to collaborate with architects and interior designers to create beautiful and functional solutions that clients love. It’s a role that balances technical problem-solving with creative innovation.
Job Titles
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AV Systems Designer
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Design Engineer
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Systems Architect
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CAD Engineer
Career Progression
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Senior Design Engineer
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Systems Architect
Background
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Education
Degree in engineering, IT, or related field; or equivalent experience
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Certifications
CEDIA ESC-D (Designer Certification), AVIXA CTS-D (Design Certification), vendor-specific training (e.g., Crestron, Lutron)
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Experience
Expertise in drafting layouts and choosing components like AV receivers, control systems, and speakers. Familiarity with AutoCAD, Bluebeam, or similar design software. Collaboration experience with architects and interior designers.
Operations Management
Operations managers are the unsung heroes behind every successful endeavor, ensuring that schedules, logistics, and team workflows run smoothly. In this role, you’ll oversee critical processes that directly impact project success and client satisfaction, including project schedules, inventory management, budget management, resource allocation, workflow efficiency, and more. No two days are the same, making it an ideal fit for individuals who thrive on variety and problem-solving.
Job Titles
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Operations Manager
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Logistics Coordinator
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Director of Operations
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Service Manager
Career Progression
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Operations Director
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Chief Operations Officer
Background
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Education
Degree in business administration, logistics, or operations management; or equivalent experience
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Certifications
Six Sigma or Lean certifications for process improvement
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Experience
Management experience in scheduling, resource allocation, and team workflows. Background in coordinating large teams and overseeing multiple projects simultaneously.
Sales
Sales professionals are the connection between technology and clients, ensuring the right solutions reach the right people. In this role, you’ll build relationships, identify client needs, and present tailored solutions that enhance lives and businesses. This role also facilitates cross-functional collaboration with design and engineering teams to recommend custom systems for clients. Each successful sale is an opportunity to make a tangible impact on both your clients and your organization.
Job Titles
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Sales Representative
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Account Executive
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Business Development Manager
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Regional Sales Director
Career Progression
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Senior Sales Manager
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Business Development Director
Background
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Education
Degree in business, marketing, or communications; or equivalent experience
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Certifications
AVIXA CTS or vendor-specific training (e.g., Crestron, Lutron)
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Experience
Background in B2B/B2C sales, customer relationship management, and technical solutions. Experience presenting technology solutions to clients and collaborating with technical teams.
Office Administration
Behind every successful technology business are the dedicated professionals in administration, HR, finances, and customer service. These roles are vital to keeping businesses running smoothly, managing everything from efficient workflows and financial analysis to team development and client satisfaction. Whether you’re overseeing office logistics, recruiting and retaining top talent, ensuring financial health, or delivering exceptional customer support, these positions offer fulfilling opportunities to make an impact.
The AV and custom integration industry’s small, dynamic businesses create a unique environment where your contributions are felt daily. With paths to leadership roles like Director of Operations, HR Manager, Controller, or Customer Service Manager, you’ll find room to grow and shape the future of these exciting organizations.
Job Titles
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Accountant
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Bookkeeper
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Human Resources
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Office Manager
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Customer Service Representative
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