Broadcast Technician

KET-Kentucky Educational Television; Chevy Chase (KY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Health insurance options

Retirement savings options

Job summary

Kentucky Educational Television (KET) seeks a Broadcast Technician to maintain RF transmission systems, microwave, and satellite equipment, supporting statewide public media operations.

The role covers installation, testing, and performance measurements for state‑of‑the‑art broadcasting, including Next Gen ATSC 3.0 systems, with some travel and weekend work as needed.

Qualifications

• Two (2) year technical college degree in electronics or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• Experience in the operation and maintenance of TV/radio broadcasting equipment, RF telecommunications systems, IP telecommunications systems, digital television systems, Windows-based computer systems.
• Must maintain a valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain RF transmission systems, including high power DTV transmitters, remote control equipment, microwave and satellite systems.
• Install and operate the Next Gen ATSC 3.0 television systems.
• Perform maintenance on transmitter buildings, grounds and ancillary equipment including HVAC, UPS and emergency generators.
• Assist with installation and operation of microwave, IP and satellite links for live events.
• Maintain records and logs required by FCC and internal reports.

Skills

RF transmission

Troubleshooting

ATSC 3.0

Broadcast equipment

HVAC

UPS systems

Generators

Education

Two year technical college degree in electronics

Job description

Broadcast Technician

Used by more than two million people each week, KET is Kentucky’s only statewide media organization, and broadcasts into 8 states and 10 media markets, along with providing live and on-demand streaming services. In addition to offering high-quality PBS programming, KET annually produces hundreds of hours of award‑winning local productions and creates nationally recognized educational resources.

This is a unique opportunity to work with an outstanding, respected, and trusted public media team, and to support a wide variety of public affairs and general productions, including Kentucky’s only nightly statewide news program, six locally produced series, and ongoing special programs.

As a Broadcast Technician, the individual selected for this role will perform maintenance duties on Digital Television RF Systems, Microwave systems, Satellite Transmission Systems, related equipment, facilities, and grounds associated with these systems.

KET’s facilities are located in beautiful “horse country” with a thriving community that offers affordable living, outstanding educational opportunities, and world class sporting events. This is an opportunity to join an excellent Technology team and to become a part of and grow with one of the most respected public media organizations in the country.

Our ideal Candidate will:

• Operate and maintain RF transmission systems, including high power DTV transmitters, remote control equipment, microwave equipment and satellite communications equipment.
• Troubleshoot and repair RF transmission equipment to board and/or component level and assist in the implementation of solutions to RF transmission problems.
• Install and operate the Next Gen ATSC 3.0 television systems.
• Install equipment and make performance measurements as required to maintain state‑of‑the‑art operation.
• Provide maintenance to transmitter building, grounds and ancillary equipment including HVAC equipment, UPS systems and emergency generators. Procure supplies and perform necessary maintenance of these facilities.
• Assist with the installation, and operation of microwave, IP and satellite communication links for live events.
• Support tower lessee equipment installation and changes, including for KSP, NOAA, and other public safety partners.
• Maintain and verify necessary records, logs, and reports required by the FCC, local and state agencies. Also maintain internal records including inventory, transmitter reports, vehicle reports, and any special reports requested by KET.
• Work a flexible schedule on a regular basis which may include weekend and night shifts as assigned. Occasionally travel overnight as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission of the organization.

Successful applicants will have the following minimum qualifications, skills, and experience:

• Two (2) year technical college degree in electronics or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• Experience in the operation and maintenance of TV/radio broadcasting equipment, RF telecommunications systems, IP telecommunications systems, digital television systems, digital electronics, and Windows-based computer systems or equivalent is desirable. KET will supply training necessary to perform the required functions.
• Moderate physical activity is required, including climbing ladders, occasional handling of average‑weight objects up to 50 pounds, standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day; Frequent reaching/pushing/pulling; Occasional bending/stooping.
• Must maintain a valid driver’s license.

Working with KET has its benefits!

KET offers a creative, engaging work environment with opportunities to collaborate and advance professionally. Additionally, employees are offered paid time off, several health insurance plan selections, and retirement savings options.

The salary will be based on the qualifications and experience of the selected applicant.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.