Engineer

C-SPAN; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

C-SPAN seeks a Broadcast Engineer in Washington, DC to maintain SMPTE 2110 master control rooms and studio systems. You will support IP-based video workflows, monitor signals, and collaborate with production to ensure seamless live broadcasts.

The role requires a technical degree in engineering, 3+ years in broadcast media, and 3–5 years IT/networking experience. Weekend shifts and physical duties are part of the job.

Qualifications

• Technical degree desired (CE/EE/IS).
• SMPTE 2110 knowledge and experience preferred.
• ITIL Foundation desired.
• Software engineering skills preferred.
• Minimum broadcast media experience of 3 years.
• 3–5 years IT and enterprise networking experience.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in cramped spaces.
• Ability to sit, stand, bend, kneel and climb stairs.

Responsibilities

• Provides technical support and maintenance for master control rooms.
• Monitors and troubleshoots audio/video signals and equipment.
• Sets up and operates studio equipment including cameras and lighting.
• Implements SMPTE2110/NDI standards for IP video delivery.
• Installs and maintains routers, switches, servers and related hardware/software.
• Manages and supports transmission operations for broadcast coverage.
• Works rotating weekends to support broadcasts.
• Performs preventive maintenance and documents procedures.
• Collaborates with IT/network teams to integrate systems.
• Trains staff and creates troubleshooting guides.

Skills

Broadcast engineering

IP networking

ITIL Foundation

Software engineering

Camera operation

Education

Electrical Engineering

Computer Engineering

Tools

SMPTE 2110

NDI

Routers

Switches

Servers

Job description

GENERAL FUNCTION:

As a Broadcast Engineer, you will be responsible for providing technical support and maintenance for our SMPTE 2110 master control rooms and studio operations, and ensuring the seamless operation of our broadcast systems. Your expertise in IP-based video technologies and knowledge of broadcast technologies will be crucial in delivering high-quality audio and video content to our audience.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provides technical support and maintenance for the master control rooms, ensuring uninterrupted broadcasting operations.
• Monitors and troubleshoots audio and video signals, equipment and systems to maintain optimal performance and resolve issues.
• Collaborates with production teams to ensure smooth execution of live broadcasts, including setting up and operating studio equipment such as cameras, microphones and lighting.
• Implements and adheres to IP-based video technologies (SMPTE2110/NDI) standards for audio and video over IP networks, ensuring compatibility and interoperability of broadcast systems.
• Assists in installing, configuring and maintaining broadcast equipment, including routers, switchers, servers and related hardware and software.
• Responsible for managing and supporting transmission operations, ensuring seamless broadcast coverage.
• Flexible to work on a rotating schedule, including some weekends, to provide operational support during broadcast times.
• Conducts regular inspections and preventive maintenance of broadcast equipment to identify potential faults and address them proactively.
• Stays current with emerging broadcast technologies, industry trends and best practices, and recommends equipment upgrades and system enhancements.
• Collaborates with IT and network teams to integrate broadcast systems with existing infrastructure and troubleshoots network-related issues.
• Documents technical procedures, system configurations and troubleshooting guides to facilitate knowledge sharing and ensure consistent operational processes.
• Trains and supports staff in properly using and maintaining broadcast equipment and systems.

BACKGROUND/SKILLS:

• Technical degree desired (Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Information Systems).
• Previous SMPTE 2110 knowledge and experience preferred.
• ITIL Foundation desired.
• Software Engineering skills preferred.
• A minimum of three years of broadcast media experience.
• A minimum of three to five years of experience in the IT domain and enterprise networking.
• Must lift equipment weighing up to 50lbs and work effectively in cramped spaces.
• Ability to sit, stand, bend, kneel and lift for extended periods.
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders.