Broadcast Engineer

WQED Multimedia; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 54,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Union contract benefits (IATSE Local 8

Job summary

WQED Multimedia in Pittsburgh, PA seeks a Broadcast Engineer to maintain, repair, and install a wide range of broadcast equipment including TV cameras, video servers, and audio systems. The role involves operation of VHF/UHF transmitters, FM transmitters, and satellite receivers under IATSE Local 820, with the union contract governing compensation and benefits.

The candidate will troubleshoot, install, document, and cabling tasks, and assist in improving WQED’s operations.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in electronics or certificate program preferred.
• 2+ years as a maintenance technician at a broadcast station with hands-on experience in various broadcast equipment.
• Strong knowledge of IT, data networking and network attached storage as it relates to broadcast systems.
• Knowledge of FCC standards and regulations for television broadcast, distribution and closed captioning.
• Ability to operate electronic test equipment for troubleshooting down to component level.
• Willingness to work mornings, nights and weekends.
• Excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Maintain digital transmitters, satellite antenna systems, signal distribution and routing systems, processing systems, monitoring devices, and automation systems.
• Maintain support equipment including master and sub switchers, monitors, videotape machines, computer systems, microphones, and intercoms.
• Conduct troubleshooting, installation, research, documentation, and cabling tasks.
• Resolve complex problems not covered by existing procedures, often under pressure.
• Assist in designing and implementing improvements to WQED operation.
• Update technical plan documentation when installations are completed.
• Document and maintain records of equipment repairs.
• Provide proactive monitoring to anticipate issues and take remedial actions.
• Help maintain logs and FCC compliance documentation.
• Stay current on broadcast engineering technology.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Electronics maintenance

Broadcast equipment troubleshooting

IT networking for broadcast

FCC standards knowledge

Electronic test equipment

Hours flexibility

Communication skills

Education

Associate’s degree in electronics

Job description

BROADCAST ENGINEER

WQED Multimedia | Pittsburgh, PA | Full-time | Non-Exempt
Location: Pittsburgh
Compensation: $41.01 per hour

THE ROLE

WQED is seeking a Broadcast Engineer to maintain, repair, adjust, and install a wide range of electronic equipment, including TV cameras, video and audio servers, and more. This role will also assist in the maintenance and operation of VHF television transmitters; FM radio transmitters, and satellite receive systems. The position is represented by IATSE Local 820 and operates under the guidelines of a collective bargaining agreement. Membership in the union is a mandatory requirement for this role.

RESPONSIBILITIES (including but not limited to)

• Maintain digital transmitters, satellite antenna systems, signal distribution and routing systems, processing systems, monitoring devices, and automation systems.
• Maintain support equipment including master and sub switchers, monitors, videotape machines, computer systems, microphones, and intercoms.
• Conduct troubleshooting, installation, research, documentation, and cabling tasks.
• Resolve complex problems not covered by existing procedures or practices independently, often under pressure.
• Assist in the design and implementation of improvements to WQED’s operation.
• Update technical plan documentation when installations are completed.
• Document and maintain records of equipment repairs.
• Provide, enhance, and utilize proactive monitoring system to anticipate technical issues and take remedial actions when monitoring indicates a need.
• Help maintain logs and reports as per FCC Rules and Regulations.
• Remain current on the developments and applications of state-of-the-art broadcast engineering technology.
• Other duties as assigned.

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS (including but not limited to)

• Associate’s degree in electronics and/or completion of a certificate program in electronics from an accredited technical institute preferred.
• 2+ years of experience working as a maintenance technician at a broadcast television/radio station with extensive experience in maintaining and troubleshooting a wide variety of broadcast equipment.
• Strong knowledge of IT, data networking and network attached storage as it relates to broadcast systems.
• Knowledge of FCC standards and regulations for television broadcast, distribution and closed captioning.
• Ability to operate electronic test equipment used for troubleshooting circuits down to the component level.
• Must be able to work outside of normal business hours, including mornings, nights and weekends.
• Excellent communication skills are necessary.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

This position requires physical activities that could involve standing, walking, lifting, and other movements. Candidates should be aware that the nature of the job may require physical fitness and the ability to perform tasks that involve moderate to strenuous physical exertion.

By applying for this position, candidates acknowledge that they are capable of meeting the physical demands of the job and understand that reasonable accommodations will be considered for individuals with disabilities.

WQED Multimedia is committed to providing a safe working environment, and all employees are expected to adhere to safety guidelines and protocols. Candidates with concerns about specific physical requirements are encouraged to discuss them during the interview process.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The hourly rate for this full-time position is $41.01, pursuant to WQED’s collective bargaining agreement with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 820. Benefits are also defined by that union contract.

About WQED

WQED Multimedia is an iconic public media institution and one of America's original educational broadcasters. Today, WQED serves hundreds of thousands of neighbors across southwestern Pennsylvania through five television channels, Voice of the Arts, streaming platforms, educational initiatives, digital storytelling, and community engagement.

This is a moment of real transformation. With major shifts in media consumption, the launch of new digital products like WQED+, the elimination of our federal funding, and growing demand for trusted, hopeful, local storytelling, WQED is evolving from a traditional broadcaster into a multi-platform community resource.

Joining WQED now means helping shape how Pittsburgh connects through story, culture, and shared experiences—on air, online, and in person.

Equal Employment Opportunity

WQED Multimedia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate the diversity of the communities we serve and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace for all. Applicants with disabilities or those needing reasonable accommodation may contact [e-mail].