Field Engineer

Accountabilities

• Partner with engineering teams to ensure broadcast programming is delivered reliably and at the highest quality through expert installation, maintenance, operation, upgrades, testing, and repair of broadcast systems.
• Lead the operation, testing, maintenance, and optimization of advanced equipment, including audio processors, transmission systems, Emergency Alert System equipment, receivers, monitors, electrical systems, and related infrastructure.
• Optimize signal quality and system performance while supporting modern IP-based broadcast, microwave, and Low Earth Orbit satellite technologies.
• Diagnose and resolve complex equipment and system faults down to the component level using advanced analytical and troubleshooting techniques.
• Collaborate with engineers, contract engineers, and technical partners to resolve critical issues and accomplish operational and engineering objectives.
• Mentor junior Broadcast Engineers, provide technical guidance, and act as an escalation point for challenging technical problems.
• Conduct required on-site visits to assigned transmitter locations at least quarterly and provide expert field support for outages, emergencies, critical repairs, and complex installations.
• Maintain and troubleshoot supporting site infrastructure such as generators, HVAC systems, and minor electrical or plumbing equipment to ensure overall site functionality.
• Serve as Chief Operator or Engineer for assigned broadcast stations and fulfill applicable regulatory and operational responsibilities.
• Maintain expert knowledge of FCC requirements and ensure broadcast systems and operations remain compliant with applicable regulations.
• Champion workplace safety practices, including strict adherence to lockout/tagout procedures and established injury-prevention standards.
• Complete timecards, expense reports, vehicle logs, budgets, work orders, asset records, tickets, and other administrative documentation accurately and on schedule.
• Maintain clear digital and physical documentation covering equipment, repairs, technical procedures, site activities, and operational information.
• Respond promptly and professionally to operational communications, including email, phone, and messaging, while keeping stakeholders informed of project and site status.
• Travel to remote transmitter sites or other locations as needed for specialized training, complex installations, major repairs, and engineering projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent technical education in electronics, broadcast communications, or a related discipline; alternatively, 5+ years of directly relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 6+ years of expert-level experience troubleshooting, installing, repairing, and maintaining complex broadcast electronic equipment or comparable technical systems.
• Strong understanding of broadcast air-chain components, system interactions, and IP-based signal distribution.
• Intermediate networking knowledge, including TCP/IP, routing, switching, and diagnosing common network issues.
• Advanced knowledge of modern microwave and Low Earth Orbit satellite technologies and their integration into broadcast environments.
• Deep knowledge of RF emissions, interference mitigation, and regulatory compliance, with the ability to address complex RF challenges.
• Expertise in soldering and desoldering electronic components, including precision-level repair work.
• Comprehensive understanding of applicable FCC broadcast rules and regulations.
• Ability to perform complex calculations involving common broadcast engineering formulas.
• Advanced proficiency with broadcast test equipment such as volt-ohm meters, oscilloscopes, and spectrum analyzers.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office and other standard business and technical software.
• SBE certification is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to systematically troubleshoot multiple highly complex technical problems and develop innovative solutions.
• Strong strategic thinking and practical problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate abstract technical challenges into effective solutions.
• Excellent written, verbal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build positive, professional relationships with technical teams and stakeholders.
• Ability to communicate with grace, respect, humility, and active listening while providing constructive feedback and technical guidance.
• Commitment to continuous professional development and staying current with emerging technologies and engineering practices.
• Strong focus on quality, accuracy, error prevention, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with distributed and cross-functional engineering teams.
• Genuine alignment with a mission-driven, service-oriented environment and willingness to contribute to organizational values and objectives.

Benefits

• Industry-leading medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Short- and long-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Robust 401(k) retirement plan with company matching.
• Parental leave with Baby Bonding pay.
• Generous paid time off.
• Paid holidays and sick leave.
• Leadership and career development programs.
• Access to unique entertainment and media-industry experiences, including concerts, movie premieres, and industry events.
• Opportunity to work on large-scale broadcast infrastructure spanning diverse locations and challenging technical environments.
• Meaningful field-based engineering work with opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth.