KPBS Broadcast Engineer

KPBS serves the greater San Diego community with informative, cultural, entertaining, and educational television, radio, and web programming. Licensed to San Diego State University, KPBS supports and furthers the university’s educational and community mission by informing, enlightening, and empowering its audience through national and locally produced programming, as well as content about San Diego and its people for nationwide distribution.

About the role

The Broadcast Engineer, under the general direction of the Director of Engineering and Operations, is responsible for the maintenance, repair, and performance of complex television, radio, and digital broadcast systems. This role involves assisting with installation and routine maintenance of broadcast equipment, implementing approved maintenance plans, and maintaining standard operating procedures. Due to the nature of KPBS broadcast operations, this position requires working on-site and outside normal business hours (including overnight, nights, and weekends) as needed. Ability to drive station-owned vehicles is required, and the position may involve lifting and transporting heavy equipment, material, and supplies.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $7,083.33–$8,333.33 per month ($85,000–$100,000 per year), depending upon qualifications, and is non-negotiable.

Schedule

This position is scheduled to close on August 27, 2026, at 4:00 PM (PST).

Responsibilities

The following duties are representative of the work performed by incumbents in this position and are not all-inclusive. Job descriptions may be changed at any time based on departmental needs.

• Equipment Operations & Maintenance (95%)
  • Maintain all technical aspects of TV, Radio, and Streaming broadcast operations, including studios, control rooms, transmission systems, and field equipment.
  • Design, install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot broadcast systems such as automation servers, routing switchers, audio boards, intercom systems, and transmitter facilities.
  • Respond to station emergencies resulting from equipment or facility failures.
  • Maintain detailed inventory and repair records.
  • Make purchase recommendations for equipment, components, and supplies.
  • Communicate with department supervisors and team members to exchange information, address concerns, complete assignments, and collaborate on projects.
• Other Duties and Responsibilities as Assigned (5%)

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or a combination of technical training and experience.
• Three years of progressively responsible experience as an audiovisual engineer, including all phases of operation and maintenance of television facilities and broadcast studios.
• Demonstrated experience in troubleshooting and repairing broadcast equipment.
• Ability to plan, organize, coordinate, and perform work in high-stress environments with numerous and diverse demands.
• Expertise in troubleshooting and problem-solving.
• Knowledge of and ability to set up remote broadcasting capability.
• Working knowledge of digital file formats used in broadcasting and internet delivery.
• Proven ability to provide excellent customer service and clear communication.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to interact effectively with co-workers and clients.
• Ability to understand and follow posted work rules and procedures.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to relate well to others within the project environment.
• Ability to work outside normal working hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, and respond to emergencies in the event of system failures.
• High level of cross-cultural sensitivity.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive station-owned vehicles.
• Ability to lift and transport heavy equipment, material, and supplies.
• Must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications

• SBE certification.
• Knowledge of computer networks and systems used in broadcasting.
• Cisco or CompTIA networking certifications.
• Knowledge of AutoCAD software.
• Knowledge of RF transmission systems.

Benefits

• Access to campus facilities and staff discounts, including farmer’s market Tuesdays, eateries, community events, and entertainment.
• Casual work attire.
• Paid time off on your birthday (can be taken on any day).
• 10 vacation days and 13 holidays off (4+ days off over winter break).
• Local employee discounts and opportunity drawings for SDSU basketball games, local concerts, and events.
• Free wellness classes and programs.
• Monthly pop-up events for staff.
• Full benefits packages (medical, dental, vision, life).
• Sick leave accruals and paid leave options.
• On-site childcare at a discounted rate.
• Opportunities for continued learning and professional development.
• Flexible spending account(s).
• Employee assistance program.
• Matching and voluntary retirement savings plan.