Assistant Chief Engineer

Ilba; Terre Haute (IN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

WTHI-TV is seeking a hands-on engineering leader to oversee the integration of broadcast and IT systems, supporting live news production and the hybrid plant. You will work with Grass Valley and IT teams to ensure reliable daily operations and drive future upgrades.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in broadcast engineering and IT, strong problem-solving abilities, and excellent documentation skills. Availability for on-call coverage, including evenings and weekends, is required.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in broadcast engineering and IT.
• Experience with Grass Valley switchers and router systems.
• Proficient in VMware, Windows servers, Active Directory, and backups.
• Strong documentation and vendor management skills.
• On-call availability including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Maintain, repair, and optimize studio, control room, and transmission systems.
• Support Grass Valley Kayak HD, production switchers, Chyron, routers, and audio consoles.
• Manage SDI signal flow, routing, monitoring, and conversion.
• Collaborate with news teams to resolve live on-air issues.
• Create and maintain system documentation and SOPs.

Skills

Broadcast engineering

IT networking

VMware

Active Directory

Leadership

Documentation

Vendor management

On-call

Live production support

Problem solving

Tools

Grass Valley Kayak HD

Chyron graphics systems

Grass Valley routers

Imagine ADC master control

Wheatstone audio consoles

ENPS

Job description

WTHI-TV is seeking a hands-on technical professional to help lead the engineering and technology operations of our television station. This role partners directly with the Regional Chief Engineer to maintain, modernize, and future-proof all station systems, from traditional SDI broadcast infrastructure and automation to IT networks, building systems, and vendor relationships. You will support live news production in a Grass Valley hot-punch environment, oversee the health of a hybrid broadcasting plant, and help guide the next wave of technical evolution while ensuring daily broadcasts run reliably.

Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

The Right Fit:

This position is designed for a well-rounded engineer who thrives at the intersection of broadcast and IT. You will maintain, improve, and innovate across all technical systems while providing vital support to a fast-paced, live news environment. The ideal candidate is a steady hand, a creative problem solver, and a trusted partner ready to help lead one of the Wabash Valley’s most dynamic television operations.

Broadcast and Production Systems:

• Maintain, repair, and optimize all studio, control room, and transmission systems
• Support Grass Valley Kayak HD, production switchers, Chyron graphics systems, Grass Valley routers, Imagine ADC master control, and Wheatstone audio consoles
• Manage signal flow across SDI infrastructure, including routing, monitoring, and conversion systems.
• Work closely with production and news teams to resolve live on-air technical issues quickly and effectively
• Create and maintain clear system documentation and standard operating procedures

Information Technology and Networking:

• Work with the Regional IT manager to maintain Information technology and support users locally.
• Oversee VMware virtual machines, Windows servers, user workstations, and system backups in coordination with corporate IT
• Manage Active Directory, LAN/WAN-related hardware, and local network security
• Support newsroom systems, automation interfaces, and shared storage environments
• Maintain alignment with Gray Media corporate IT and broadcast technology initiatives
• Ensure proper cybersecurity practices and software updates across technical systems

Leadership and Collaboration:

• Serve as a key technical leader when the Chief Engineer is unavailable or off-site
• Promote proactive maintenance and continuous improvement within the department
• Communicate effectively with newsroom, production, and corporate personnel
• Maintain a calm, professional demeanor under pressure and during live operations

Desired Qualifications/Requirements:

• Working knowledge of Grass Valley switchers, Evertz, Imagine,& Grass Valley Routers, and ENPS
• Understanding of SDI signal flow, routing, audio distribution, and monitoring systems
• Experience with VMware virtual environments, Windows server, Active Directory, and system backups
• Knowledge of VLANs, routing, and network configuration within a broadcast plant
• Basic understanding of transmitters and RF fundamentals preferred
• Must be available for on-call support, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities with a proactive mindset
• Strong organizational and documentation skills with attention to detail
• Effective communication and vendor management skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a live production environment
• 5 or more years of experience in broadcast engineering and information technology