Broadcast Technician

KET; Paducah (KY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

KET in the Western Kentucky Region is seeking a Broadcast Technician to maintain and operate Digital Television RF, microwave and satellite transmission systems. The role supports KET’s public media mission and requires a two-year electronics-related degree, related experience, and a valid driver's license.

The position involves maintaining transmitter facilities, submitting logs and reports per FCC rules, and occasional travel for live events. Training is provided as needed.

Qualifications

• Two year technical college degree in electronics or equivalent.
• Experience with TV/radio broadcasting equipment and RF/IP telecom systems is desirable.
• Must be able to perform physical activity including climbing ladders and lifting up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain RF transmission systems including high power DTV transmitters, remote control, microwave and satellite equipment.
• Troubleshoot and repair RF transmission equipment to board or component level and assist in implementing solutions.
• Install and operate Next Gen ATSC 3.0 television systems and perform performance measurements to maintain operation.
• Provide maintenance to transmitter buildings, grounds and ancillary equipment including HVAC, UPS and generators; procure supplies and perform maintenance.

Skills

RF transmission systems

Troubleshoot RF equipment

ATSC 3.0 installation

Transmit facility maintenance

Education

Two-year technical college degree in electronics

Tools

Windows-based computer systems

Job description

Broadcast Technician

Western Kentucky Region

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 is Kentucky's only statewide broadcast network, operating in 16 full power transmitters and three translators, as well as two NextGen TV ATSC 3.0 stations (Louisville and Cincinnati).

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.