Azamara Cruises | Broadcast Operator
About the role
The Broadcast Operator is responsible for the operation and delivery of onboard television and radio programming throughout the vessel. This includes managing the playback and distribution of both pre-recorded and live content across shipboard broadcast systems.
Onboard television and radio programming is sourced from satellite feeds, terrestrial broadcasts, pre-recorded media, and live content originating from onboard lectures, presentations, and entertainment events. Live broadcasts may be received via satellite or captured directly from shipboard venues.
Radio programming includes satellite and terrestrial radio broadcasts as well as pre-recorded audio content. The Broadcast Operator supports in-cabin music channels and the background music distributed throughout public spaces via the ship’s PA system, ensuring reliable and consistent playback.
Responsibilities
- In accordance with Azamara Cruises’ Go Further Standards, conduct oneself in a professional and courteous manner at all times. This includes physical and verbal interactions with guests, fellow shipboard employees, and behavior in guest-contact and crew areas.
- Assist the Broadcast Manager in the formulation of television and radio broadcast schedules.
- Assist in executing television and radio broadcast schedules, ensuring accurate start times and consistent broadcast quality.
- Tune satellite and terrestrial broadcasts and load, cue, and initiate pre-recorded content as scheduled.
- Assist with the operation and day-to-day running of the shipboard ITV network.
- Assist the Broadcast Manager in creating broadcast programming as required, including shooting, editing, mixing, and preparing content for live or recorded playback, using professional video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro.
- Capture and produce a wide range of content to support the cruise product, including but not limited to lectures, activities, shows, interviews, informational programming, and destination or ship-related features.
- Assist with monitoring video presentations to ensure proper playback and signal quality.
- Assist in monitoring the shipwide PA system, paying close attention to clarity, volume, and coverage.
- Assist in overseeing video-related requirements and technical setups for shipboard activities and special events in various lounges, in collaboration with the A/V Manager.
- Support video and broadcast setups for special groups and major events (e.g., karaoke, sporting events such as the Super Bowl or World Cup).
- Aid in the entry, updating, and management of presentation content (such as PowerPoint displays) used for daily schedules, activity highlights, special promotions, weather updates, and general guest information.
- Assist in maintaining complete records of broadcast equipment failures and requests for repair or replacement.
- Aid in tracking equipment that has been repaired and returned to service, as well as replacement equipment received onboard.
- Aid in maintaining accurate and up-to-date inventory documentation covering broadcast equipment and supplies.
- Aid in keeping detailed notes on the operational status of broadcast systems and equipment, providing these records as handover notes to successors and forwarding required documentation to shipboard management and the corporate office on a monthly basis.
- Be available to assist the A/V Department with basic technical needs at the discretion of the A/V Manager, with approval from the Broadcast Manager and Cruise Director.
- Maintain working knowledge of shipboard standard operating procedures to assist guests and crew with general inquiries.
- Perform related duties as required in support of shipboard broadcast and entertainment operations.
- Attend all required meetings, trainings, courses, and work-related activities.
- Participate in all mandatory crew and guest safety drills as required.
Qualifications & Skills
- Bachelor’s degree in a related technical field or equivalent in-field experience.
- Minimum of one (1) year of experience in related technical functions within an upscale hotel, resort, cruise ship, entertainment, or recreational industry (shipboard experience preferred).
- Cruise line or touring experience preferred but not required.
- Working knowledge of technical equipment, including broadcast and radio systems, shipboard video playback systems, and related production hardware.
- Basic to intermediate PC and equipment troubleshooting skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve routine operational issues efficiently.
- Understanding of satellite systems and antenna tracking relevant to onboard broadcast operations.
- Foundational networking knowledge, especially as it relates to ITV systems and associated components.
- Experience with video editing software, specifically Adobe Premiere Pro.
- Familiarity with camera equipment, including the Sony FX30, as well as Sony and Panasonic cameras used in cabaret environments.
- Knowledge of live video switching and streaming systems, such as the Blackmagic ATEM SDI Pro.
- Ability to analyze and evaluate technical support needs for various events and performances.
- Intermediate computer software skills.
- Strong problem-solving, organizational, and decision-making abilities.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Superior customer service, team-building, and conflict-resolution skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively with multiple onboard departments and understand how the entertainment team integrates into the larger operation.
- Ability to remain professional and effective in high-stress environments with tight deadlines while maintaining a high-quality product.
- Willingness to think quickly, adapt to changing needs, and assist outside the direct scope of work when required.
- Openness to learning new skills to support team and organizational success.
- Comfortable working across multiple venues as needed.
- Strong work ethic, positive attitude, and excellent time-management skills.
- Fluency in spoken and written English.
- Ability to read and write English in order to understand and interpret written procedures; give and receive instructions verbally and in writing; and effectively present information and respond to questions from guests, supervisors, and coworkers.
- Ability to speak additional languages such as Spanish, French, or German is preferred.
- Ability to work at height using harnesses, Genies, and ladders.
- Abilities to work in a variety of environments, including but not limited to:
- High-pressure situations
- Long hours
- Travel
- Physical demands (e.g., standing, walking, lifting)