Broadcast Electronics Engineer

OVERVIEW

A thriving, mission-driven multimedia organization, NPR produces award-winning news, information, and music programming in partnership with hundreds of independent public radio stations across the nation. The NPR audience values information, creativity, curiosity, and social responsibility – and our employees do too. We are innovators and leaders in diverse fields, from journalism and digital media to IT and development. Every day, our employees and member stations touch the lives of millions worldwide. 

Across our organization, we’re building a workplace where collaboration is essential, diverse voices are heard, and inclusion is the key to our success. We are committed to doing the right thing in our journalism and in every role at NPR. This means that integrity, adherence to our ethical standards, and compliance with legal obligations are fundamental responsibilities for every employee at NPR.

INTRO TO POSITION

NPR seeks a customer-service-focused and mission-driven Broadcast Media Electronics Engineer to help build our technical support team. The incumbent designs, installs and maintains NPR’s broadcast technical equipment and facilities, including AoIP and VoIP networks, switches, and virtual machines. This person also performs customer service based roles supporting the staff of NPR with equipment and troubleshooting needs on a daily basis.

This is a union-represented role covered under the terms of a collective bargaining agreement with NABET-CWA.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Construct, install, test, maintain, repair, and provide technical support for broadcast audio and video equipment, systems, and studio facilities.
• Design, monitor, and support audio and video SMPTE 2110 and Ravenna networks and switches for AoIP and VoIP workflows.
• Create new and ensure existing technical databases, drawings, and documentation are current.
• In partnership with Engineering Technology leadership, plan projects and/or execute project plans.
• Take ownership of customer issues and follow through to resolution.
• Respond to critical issues on a 24x7x365 basis as required.
• Expand knowledge of current and emerging audio and video broadcast equipment, systems and workflow.

The above duties and responsibilities are not an exhaustive list of required responsibilities, duties and skills. Other duties may be assigned, and this job description can be modified at any time.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• At least two years’ experience in engineering maintenance at a broadcaster, production house, or systems integrator preferred.
• Familiarity with IP based audio and video systems and networking protocols.
• Ability to utilize test equipment commonly used in broadcast related electronics and computer network servicing.
• Experience with computer networking.
• Demonstrated experience providing a high level of professional, courteous, and consistent interactions with clients.
• Troubleshooting experience at the systems level of broadcast and audio and video production-related equipment, computer hardware, virtual computers (including cloud-based), and AoIP and VoIP networking.
• Ability to read schematics and understand signal flow
• Ability to use common hand and power tools
• Ability to solder audio cables and component connections.
• Demonstrated ability to perform under deadline pressure.
• Ability and willingness to work overtime as required. This includes weekends, overnights, and occasional holidays.
• Demonstrated knowledge of audio and video, recording, and production theory and practice.
• Must be able to work independently or with a team.
• Must be able to multitask and prioritize.
• Critical listening skills
• Must hold a valid driver’s license.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in programming and installation of a multi-console facility, intercom, automation and router based digital audio and video system.
• Familiarity with Google Workspaces suite, AutoCAD LT, Visio.
• Familiarity with AES 67, Ravenna, SMPTE 2110 and other audio and video over IP transports.
• Familiarity with cloud-based broadcast media systems and design.
• Familiarity with Lawo and Telos hardware.
• Professional broadcast network level TV/Radio experience a plus.
• Public Broadcasting experience a plus.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENT

• Two years of college in computer/network engineering or media and broadcast engineering required. Degree in a related field or equivalent experience is highly preferred.

WORK LOCATION

• On-site: This is an on-site role based in Washington, DC .

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