Master Control Center Technician

Responsibilities

• Maintain quality control of audio and video signals prior to and during transmission and/or recording of satellite or other system feeds.
• Ensure programming material airs as scheduled.
• Monitor all incoming and outgoing feeds while staying in communication with broadcast studios to assess the quality of video and audio material.
• Take corrective action to enhance signal quality using available equipment.
• Assure the quality of all material recorded into the media server, whether manually ingested or automated.
• Operate video recording and playback equipment, automated video playout, and video server systems.
• Perform media duplication from various sources and formats to multiple formats, including standards conversion for overseas distribution.
• Use newsroom computer systems such as Dalet, ENPS, or iNews.
• Use facilities scheduling software such as ScheduAll.
• Monitor and adjust broadcast systems to meet accepted broadcast standards using diagnostic tools like waveform monitors and audio analyzers.
• Operate master control switchers, routing switchers, video servers, frame synchronizers, satellite receivers, recording systems, converters, patch panels, and intercoms.
• Advise on or directly resolve technical problems during broadcasts or program feeds and perform miscellaneous support tasks.
• Assist in training junior staff on equipment and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain contact with all necessary entities to ensure program elements are in order and air as scheduled.
• Understand signal flow within a modern television facility and its interface with incoming and outgoing circuits.
• Take necessary steps to correct or work around system problems and notify maintenance of technical systems needing service.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of evolving technical formats and equipment.
• May serve as a TV camera operator, audio technician, or studio lighting technician.

Requirements

You must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National. This is a public trust position requiring completion of the SF-85 Suitability Determination. If selected, you will be subject to a background investigation, including a review of your credit and legal history. This position is covered by a union agreement (AFGE Local 1812).

• This position may require working nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for the Selective Service.
• Full performance grade level for this position is GS-12.

Qualifications

Applicants must have a minimum of one year of specialized experience at a level of difficulty and responsibility comparable to the GS-11 or comparable pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private sector. Specialized Experience includes:

• Knowledge of technologies used in the distribution of television and broadcast programming.
• Experience with television and broadcasting technologies.
• Knowledge of Master Control facilities, including operational procedures and effective utilization.
• Knowledge of domestic and international common carriers used to transmit and receive programs via satellite or terrestrial circuits to coordinate remote interconnects integral to the production process.

Education is not required for this grade level and cannot be used for qualification purposes.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits designed to make your federal career rewarding. Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time, or intermittent.