Assistant Chief Engineer

Core Responsibilities

• Broadcast and Production Systems
  • Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain studio, control room, and master control systems
  • Trace and manage signal flow across a large SDI plant, including routing, conversion, monitoring, and audio distribution
  • Support live news production, including Ross OverDrive automation, production switchers, graphics systems, and audio consoles
  • Respond quickly and calmly when something breaks on the air
  • Create and maintain clear documentation of how systems are wired and how they are repaired
• Information Technology and Networking
  • Keep broadcast-attached servers, workstations, shared storage, and backups running in coordination with corporate IT
  • Maintain switches, VLANs, and the networks our production and newsroom systems depend on
  • Apply updates and follow the cybersecurity practices set by Nexstar corporate IT

  Please note: this is broadcast IT, not a help desk or enterprise system administration role. Corporate IT owns the enterprise side. What we need here is someone who understands how the network serves the plant.

• Streaming and Connected TV
  • Help support and expand our connected TV and streaming encoding, distribution, and monitoring
  • Work with the Chief Engineer to plan how new delivery paths fit alongside existing linear infrastructure
  • Bring ideas about how the plant should evolve, not just keep the lights on

  No prior CTV or streaming experience is required. Curiosity and a willingness to learn matter more.

• Facilities and Operations
  • Assist with generator, UPS, HVAC, power, and physical security systems
  • Support readiness during severe weather and power events
  • Assist with transmitter and tower site maintenance under the direction of the Chief Engineer
  • Help maintain a safe, efficient, and reliable technical environment
• Project and Vendor Management
  • Research and evaluate new technology for integration into station operations
  • Request quotes, coordinate vendors and contractors, and oversee project timelines
  • Track capital and special projects through planning, installation, and documentation
  • Maintain accurate technical inventories and service records
• Leadership and Collaboration
  • Serve as the senior technical contact when the Chief Engineer is off site or unavailable
  • Provide practical guidance to maintenance engineers and operations staff
  • Communicate clearly with newsroom, production, and corporate personnel
  • Maintain a calm, professional demeanor under pressure and during live operations

Qualifications

What We Require:

• Hands-on broadcast or live production technical experience. You have personally traced signal, terminated cable, read a rack, and used test gear
• Three or more years in broadcast engineering, television technical operations, or live production technology
• Working comfort with Windows systems and basic networking, enough to be useful rather than expert level
• Composure during live television, and the judgment to know what to fix first
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work safely in studios, racks, catwalks, and rooftop environments
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
• Willingness to be on call and respond after hours during severe weather and power events

Preferred But Not Required

• Experience with Ross Carbonite, or comparable production switchers
• Windows Server and Active Directory familiarity
• SBE certification or an FCC General Radiotelephone License
• An associate or bachelor's degree in engineering, information technology, or a related field. Equivalent hands-on experience carries the same weight

The Right Fit

This position is designed for a well-rounded engineer who thrives at the intersection of broadcast and IT. You will be empowered to maintain, improve, and innovate across all technical systems while providing vital support to a fast-paced, live news environment. The ideal candidate is a steady hand, a creative problem solver, and a trusted partner ready to help lead one of Kansas City's most dynamic media operations.