IT Specialist

NAB Leadership Foundation; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 41,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Nexstar Media Group in Chicago is seeking an IT Specialist to join our Engineering team, supporting WGN-TV and NewsNation Chicago in a live news environment. You will install, configure, and troubleshoot Windows, macOS, and Linux systems, manage AD, servers, networking, and provide expert support for Office 365, Adobe CC, and critical broadcast infrastructure.

This role requires flexible hours and the ability to maintain uptime for 24/7 operations.

Qualifications

• Degree in Information Technology or related field preferred; equivalent work experience will be considered.
• Solid background in IT systems, Active Directory, server administration, and networking.
• Relevant industry certifications (e.g., Microsoft, Cisco) are a plus.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a focus on customer support and satisfaction.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work effectively under pressure in a live broadcast setting.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, in support of live news operations.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to troubleshoot critical systems with urgency and precision.

Responsibilities

• Install, maintain, and troubleshoot Windows, macOS, and Linux systems across News, Creative Services, and other departments.
• Provide expert support for Microsoft Office 365 applications and related plug-ins.
• Manage and maintain critical infrastructure, including national news production servers, content storage systems, playout servers, graphics, and editing systems.
• Install, configure, and resolve issues with Adobe Creative Cloud applications and plug-ins.
• Diagnose and repair desktop and laptop hardware, including drives, memory, and peripherals.
• Perform regular system backups and restorations, particularly for high-performance RAID-based broadcast systems.
• Configure and troubleshoot IP networks, including 10Gbps+ high-speed links and geographically distributed systems.
• Install and manage network routers and switches in collaboration with Corporate IT.
• Support both local and remote users in a mission-critical, 24/7 news environment.

Skills

Communication

Customer support

Prioritization under pressure

Education

Degree in Information Technology

Tools

Active Directory

Server Administration

Networking

Microsoft Certifications

Cisco Certifications

Job description

Nexstar Media Group is seeking a skilled and motivated IT Specialist to join our Engineering organization in Chicago supporting both WGN-TV and NewsNation Chicago. If you're ready for a challenging and dynamic opportunity to work with leading-edge technology in a live news environment, we want to hear from you.

This position reports to the Manager of Information Technology for NewsNation and WGN-TV Chicago and provides support for newsrooms, production control rooms, sales, creative services, producers and talent.

Key Responsibilities:

• Install, maintain, and troubleshoot Windows, macOS, and Linux systems across News, Creative Services, and other departments.
• Provide expert support for Microsoft Office 365 applications and related plug-ins.
• Manage and maintain critical infrastructure, including national news production servers, content storage systems, playout servers, graphics, and editing systems.
• Install, configure, and resolve issues with Adobe Creative Cloud applications and plug-ins.
• Diagnose and repair desktop and laptop hardware, including drives, memory, and peripherals.
• Perform regular system backups and restorations, particularly for high-performance RAID-based broadcast systems.
• Configure and troubleshoot IP networks, including 10Gbps+ high-speed links and geographically distributed systems.
• Install and manage network routers and switches in collaboration with Corporate IT.
• Support both local and remote users in a mission-critical, 24/7 news environment.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Degree in Information Technology or related field preferred; equivalent work experience will be considered.
• Solid background in IT systems, Active Directory, server administration, and networking.
• Relevant industry certifications (e.g., Microsoft, Cisco) are a plus.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a focus on customer support and satisfaction.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work effectively under pressure in a live broadcast setting.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, in support of live news operations.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to troubleshoot critical systems with urgency and precision.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds for distances up to 100 feet.
• Some climbing, kneeling, and crawling may be required.
• Manual dexterity is necessary to operate keyboards, tools, and technical equipment.
• A valid driver's license is required; must be able to safely operate company vehicles.

Why Join Us?

This is your chance to be part of a growing national news brand while also contributing to the success of a respected local television institution. We offer competitive compensation, excellent benefits, and the opportunity to work alongside industry-leading professionals.

Compensation:

$30 to $38 per hour - commensurate with applicant's experience and skill level

Benefits:

Our comprehensive benefits package includes, but not limited to, medical (with multiple plan options), dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) with company matching contributions, Paid Parental leave, life insurance and more.