Broadcast Operations & Engineering Manager

About the role

KCBS2/KCAL9, the largest duopoly and part of the CBS-owned and operated stations in Los Angeles, is seeking an experienced Engineering Manager.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Director in capital planning and department expense budget.
• Supervise the engineering maintenance staff and coordinate training for engineers in new systems, technologies, procedures, and techniques.
• Manage Engineering staff schedules who are members of the IBEW or IATSE unions.
• Ensure daily maintenance issues are being resolved in a timely manner, staff development opportunities are being applied, and projects are being completed on schedule and within budget.
• Cook up any maintenance windows that could impact KCBS/KCAL, CBS West Coast Network Operations, CBS West Coast News Bureau, Newspath, CBS Program Practices, among other divisions.
• Cook up with the Director of IT & Broadcast Technology integrating or updating equipment that requires network connectivity.
• Oversee the purchasing of equipment and the coordination of the stations' technological planning and development.
• Manage relationships with vendors, and local distribution partners.
• Process invoices according to NET terms.
• Work directly with the News Department to plan and implement special production and event coverage as necessary.
• Along with the Production manager, resolve the source of all on-air technical problems or mistakes and take any necessary action to prevent such mistakes from reoccurring.
• Ensure compliance with FCC, OSHA, EPA, and local laws, and performs other duties as assigned.

Proficiencies

• Ability to lead and motivate a team.
• A sound engineering foundation and the ability to solve and repair complex television broadcast systems.
• Strong technical background in video transmission and transmitters, newsroom systems, ingest, wireless and cellular bonded technologies, automation systems, microwave, master control, satellite, streaming, control room, studio, and field operations, and IP technology.
• Expertise and background in RF transmission and technology.
• Understanding of MEP systems, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and fire protection systems.
• Candidate must be a self-starter and highly organized.
• Strong project execution and coordination skills.
• Strong verbal and written skills, with the ability to successfully actively communicate and work with other members of the engineering staff, station employees, management, and outside vendors in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience as a television broadcast manager, or equivalent.
• College degree in Engineering or IT related field, or SBE Certification, preferred.
• Willingness to work nights, weekends, holidays, and in emergency situations, as we are a 24/7 news operation.
• Understanding of RF, ATSC 1.0 & 3.0 signals, MPEG2, AVC, HEVC, DOLBY AC-3 & AC-4, CALM ACT, EAS, CAP.
• Knowledge and experience working with but not limited to SONY automation, switchers, and cameras, media servers, Grass Valley non-linear editing systems, Telestream transcoding products, Chyron graphics systems, Evertz routers, RTS intercoms, and Harmonic encoders.
• Knowledge of and understanding of FCC rules and regulations.
• Familiarity with IP interface networking, active directory, and software.

Qualifications

The minimum qualifications for this position include:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a television broadcast management role.
• A college degree in Engineering or a related field, or SBE Certification, is preferred.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Comprehensive knowledge of RF transmission, ATSC standards, and various broadcast technologies.
• Experience with SONY, Grass Valley, and other industry-standard broadcast equipment.
• Understanding of FCC regulations and compliance.
• Experience with IP networking and software applications.

Skills

• Leadership and motivational skills.
• Technical expertise in broadcast systems and technologies.
• Project management and coordination abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Life insurance coverage.
• Disability benefits.
• Tuition assistance program.
• Flexible time off (PTO).

Pay

Hiring Salary Range: $140,000.00 - 150,000.00.

The hiring salary range for this position applies to New York, California, Colorado, Washington state, and most other geographies. Starting pay for the successful applicant depends on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education. The benefits available for this position include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) plan, life insurance coverage, disability benefits, tuition assistance program and PTO or, if applicable, as otherwise dictated by the appropriate Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Schedule

This position is a 24/7 news operation, requiring flexibility and availability outside of regular business hours.