Board Operator

Job Overview

The Board Operator role is essential for ensuring high technical standards and on-air sound quality in live and pre-recorded radio broadcasts. Reporting to the Operations Supervisor, this position requires a combination of technical proficiency, reliability, and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Operate radio station control room and production equipment, including control consoles, recorders, computers, satellite receivers, transmitter control devices, EAS equipment and associated systems.
• Ensure strict technical standards and high-quality on-air sound in the live production and broadcast of daily programs and special coverage.
• Perform all aspects of audio production for daily regional programs, including recording interviews, mixing sound elements, and post-producing content for local broadcast.
• Manage routine assignments independently consistent with organizational policies, procedures, and FCC regulations.
• Accurately complete daily news scripts. Work closely with NEPM News Host and Executive Editor. Provide support to other News Team as needed.
• Collaborate closely with production units across regional partners (NEPM, CAI, GBH) to execute high-quality program elements, multi-site recordings, and seamless transitions.
• Assist with the operations, basic troubleshooting, and maintenance of radio computer automation systems and digital networks.
• Support quality control initiatives by evaluating audio feeds and recommending best practices for audio workflow and standard operating procedures.
• Project future equipment and technical needs proactively in collaboration with program producers and under the direction of the Operations Supervisor.
• Provide basic functional guidance or operational onboarding support to junior staff or interns when necessary.

Skill Set

• Proficient working knowledge of broadcast consoles, audio production workflows, and digital radio traffic software.
• Excellent ability to handle complex, live broadcast operations calmly and effectively under tight deadline pressures.
• Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail, reliability, and proactive follow-through.
• Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills; ability to work cooperatively within a nimble, fast-paced team environment.
• Working knowledge of computer systems and automation networks within a modern broadcast environment (e.g., Zetta, Marketron, or similar platforms).
• Demonstrated judgment and adaptability when responding to technical emergencies or breaking news adjustments.

Department Overview

The Production and Operations department ensures high-quality broadcasting, technical integrity, and seamless delivery of public media content across regional and national platforms, collaborating closely with multiple newsrooms and stations including NEPM, CAI, and GBH.

Education And Experience

• High school diploma required.
• Minimum of 2–4 years of related work experience running a radio console and crafting high-quality radio broadcasts.
• Associate degree or vocational training in broadcasting, media production, or a related technical field preferred.
• Experience with Zetta radio automation and Marketron radio traffic software is highly preferred.

JOB SPECIFICS

• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, which may include early mornings, late evenings, or weekend shifts to support live programming and special broadcast coverage.
• Reliability is critical, including holidays.
• Position requires prolonged periods of sitting/standing at a broadcast console and high visual/auditory acuity.
• Remote or hybrid work status is generally not available for this on-site technical production role.

LOCATION

44 Hampden Street, Springfield, MA 01103

PAY

$40,800 - $52,600

COMPENSATION

Compensation offered within this range is determined by skills, experience and internal pay equity.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The community and audience we serve are diverse, and we wish to foster that diversity in our workplace. Toward that end, GBH does not discriminate against individuals in hiring, employment, or promotion based on race, religion, color, sex/gender, gender identity and gender expression, age, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, citizenship, disability, veteran or military status, political belief, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.