Director of Engineering

KCCI, the CBS-affiliated Hearst Television station in Des Moines, IA has an opening for a Director of Engineering. You will lead a forward-thinking team in a dynamic broadcast and digital environment, ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and continual innovation of all technology and broadcast systems, infrastructure, and facilities. This position reports directly to the station’s President/General Manager and serves on the Department Head team.

You will oversee all technical and operational aspects of the station, from operations to transmission, and play a key leadership role in advancing the station’s broadcast, digital, and IT strategies. The ideal candidate combines technical expertise with strong leadership, communication, and planning skills, and thrives in a fast-paced environment that values innovation and teamwork.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

• Lead and manage the engineering and IT teams, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.

• Provide mentorship, professional development, and performance evaluations for technical staff.

• Oversee scheduling, hiring, and resource allocation to ensure efficient station operations.

• Collaborate with department heads to align engineering initiatives with station goals.

• Develop and manage capital and operating budgets, ensuring effective use of resources.

   

Technology & Systems Management

• Oversee the maintenance, repair, and modernization of all broadcast, production, and IT systems.

• Ensure reliable performance of studio, transmission, and digital systems, including automation, routing, signal distribution, and IP-based workflows.

• Implement and maintain emerging technologies that enhance on-air and digital product quality.

• Ensure compliance with FCC regulations, industry standards, and cybersecurity best practices.

   

Operational & Facilities Oversight

• Oversee all studio and field equipment supporting broadcast and production operations.

• Oversee building infrastructure, including electrical, mechanical, and HVAC systems, ensuring facility reliability and safety.

• Monitor multiple air channels, maintaining regulatory compliance and ensuring on-air quality control.

• Coordinate with vendors and contractors for maintenance, installations, and upgrades.

• Ensure IT integrity and infrastructure security, including networking, servers, and storage systems.

   

Maintenance, Repairs & Compliance

• Schedule and perform preventative maintenance on broadcast and IT systems to minimize downtime.

• Maintain transmitter, satellite antenna, and signal distribution systems.

• Keep detailed documentation of equipment inventory, service records, and system configurations.

• Guarantee compliance with all FCC, OSHA, and corporate safety standards.

   

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Identify and implement new technologies that improve efficiency, performance, and content delivery.

• Collaborate on strategic initiatives that drive technological innovation across broadcast and digital platforms.

• Support a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence within the engineering department.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in broadcast engineering, including 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.

• Strong background in IP-based broadcast systems, automation, and IT infrastructure.

• Proficiency with RF transmission, signal flow, and production systems.

• FCC General Class License or SBE Certification preferred; related military experience will be considered.

• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.

• Abili