Broadcast Systems Technician

American University; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Washington, DC is seeking a Broadcast Systems Technician to support broadcast operations for WAMU. This full-time role involves maintaining and operating broadcast infrastructure and ensuring operational readiness. The technician will collaborate with IT management and lead training programs, contributing to the station's technical needs. Competitive benefits are offered, including a generous retirement match and tuition benefits.

Benefits

200% retirement match

Tuition benefits

Leadership certificates

Recognition as a fit-friendly worksite

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of relevant experience in broadcast IT and audio systems.
• Knowledge of FM transmitters and public broadcasting.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and upgrade studio facilities and transmitters.
• Troubleshoot system issues and support remote broadcasts.
• Design systems and lead training programs.

Skills

Effective communication

Mentorship

Troubleshooting

Continuous Improvement

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate's degree or equivalent

Tools

Analog/Digital audio systems

RF systems

Job description

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University

Department

Broadcast Engineering

Time Type

Full time

Job Type

Regular

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Work Modality

Full On Campus Presence

Union

Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA)

This position is part of a collective bargaining unit represented by SAG-AFTRA.

Job Description

Summary: The Broadcast Systems Technician supports broadcast operations and infrastructure for WAMU under the direction of the Director of Broadcast Engineering. The role involves maintaining, evolving, and operating transmitters, control systems, studios, playout systems, remote technology, and content creation systems. The technician partners with the Broadcast IT Systems Manager to maintain and expand AoIP and network infrastructure, and coordinates technical setup for remote broadcasts.

Essential Functions

• Broadcast Operations and Maintenance: Build, test, troubleshoot, maintain, and upgrade studio facilities, transmitters, and associated equipment.
• Perform preventative maintenance and coordinate repairs with manufacturers and vendors.
• Assist in maintaining audiovisual equipment and broadcast network infrastructure.
• Operations Management and Support: Troubleshoot system issues, train users, support special events, and remote broadcasts.
• Project Implementation: Design systems, support projects, and lead training programs.
• Initiative Support: Support technical needs of station activities and ensure operational readiness.

Competencies

• Championing Customer Needs
• Evaluating and Implementing Ideas
• Driving Continuous Improvement
• Making Accurate Judgments and Decisions
• Building and Supporting Teams

Position Type/Expected Hours Of Work

• Full-Time, 35 hours/week
• On-call 24/7, with ability to work remotely after-hours and during inclement weather.

Salary Range

$40.06-$41.21 per hour

Required Education And Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Vocational college or relevant experience in broadcast IT and audio systems
• 1-3 years of relevant experience
• Knowledge of analog/digital audio, contribution links, satellite systems
• Effective communication and mentorship skills
• Ability to develop training programs and follow safety guidelines

Preferred Education And Experience

• Associate's degree or equivalent
• 2-4 years of relevant experience
• Experience with broadcast studios, audio, transmission, RF systems
• Managing digital audio routing systems (AoIP, Dante, etc.)
• Knowledge of FM transmitters, satellite systems, public broadcasting

Travel Required

• Local travel

Benefits

Competitive benefits including a 200% retirement match, tuition benefits, leadership certificates, and recognition as a fit-friendly worksite.

Other Details

• Background check required
• Work onsite in DC, Maryland, Virginia, or at the studio
• Position duties may change
• American University is an E-Verify employer

Current Employees

Apply through Workday.

Contact

For assistance, email [e-mail].

American University is an equal opportunity employer and complies with applicable laws and regulations.