KWTV Master Control Operator

Griffin Media; Oklahoma City (OK); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

News 9 in Oklahoma City is seeking a Master Control Operator to operate master control and ensure the quality of all audio and video transmitted. You will monitor FCC-compliant broadcasts, maintain logs, and support operations in both Oklahoma City and Tulsa.

This full-time role requires attention to detail, the ability to work under pressure, and strong teamwork. You will handle on-air schedules, equipment, and emergency responses, and may assist with training new staff.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent experience in broadcasting or related field.
• Minimum 1 year prior experience in master control operations.
• Ability to work quickly and accurately with names, numbers, and symbols.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Attention to detail and dependability.
• Knowledge of FCC regulations and broadcast compliance.
• Proficient with computers and operating electronic equipment.
• Ability to stay calm under pressure during emergencies.
• Willingness to travel to work location.

Responsibilities

• Operate master control to ensure quality of all audio and video.
• Maintain logs and monitor transmitters per FCC guidelines.
• Manage broadcast elements: local products, ads, promos, PSAs.
• Operate transmitters, monitor tower lights, follow failure procedures.
• Ensure audio levels and feed quality; monitor feeds.
• Run on-air schedules including breaks, segments, live events.
• Coordinate with production for smooth transitions between live content.
• Keep transmission logs and maintenance records.
• Ensure FCC compliance and company policies.
• Respond to emergencies, weather alerts, and interruptions.
• Assist with training new staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Attention to detail

Multitasking

Effective communication

Teamwork

Calm under pressure

Fast, accurate work

Problem solving

FCC regulations knowledge

Organizational skills

English literacy

Education

Associate degree or equivalent in broadcasting/related field

Tools

Master control equipment

Job description

A Master Control Operator at News 9 helps drive the Ideal Team Player culture.

Job Summary

As a Master Control Operator, you will operate master control to ensure the quality of all audio and video transmitted or received. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of our broadcast facilities in both Oklahoma City and Tulsa. You will maintain appropriate logs, as well as operate and monitor analog and digital transmitters in accordance with FCC guidelines.

Job Responsibilities

• Responsible for all operational aspects of the broadcast areas, including but not limited to local products, commercials, promos, and PSAs for a clean and accurate product.
• Operate transmitter and transmitter control systems. Follow procedures in case of failure. Monitor tower lights to ensure they are in good working order as well as following EAS procedures.
• Responsible for ensuring quality control of our product, audio levels, as well as any incoming feeds.
• Monitor incoming and outgoing broadcast feeds to ensure quality and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Operate master control equipment including servers, switchers, routers, and automation systems.
• Execute on-air schedules according to programming requirements, including commercial breaks, program segments, and live events.
• Coordinate with the production team to ensure smooth transitions between live content.
• Maintain accurate logs and documentation of all broadcast activities, including program schedules, transmission logs, and equipment maintenance records.
• Ensure compliance with FCC regulations, company policies, and quality control standards.
• Respond quickly and effectively to emergency situations, including severe weather alerts or other broadcast interruptions.
• Assist with training new staff members or master control operations and procedures.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Job Schedule

This is a full-time position primarily working 40 hours per week. You may also be called upon at times to fill in other hours and days of the week to help cover vacations, illnesses, breaking news, severe weather, or special projects/events. This position is not eligible to work remotely.

Qualifications

• Humble: A habit of sharing successes, putting the team first, and working for the good of the team. A “we” not “me” attitude. The ability to give and receive constructive criticism. Observe and employ the Golden Rule.
• Hungry: Exhibit a strong work ethic, drive, and willingness to take initiative.
• Smart (People Smart): The virtue of being interpersonally smart about the interactions and relationships of those you encounter.
• Positive Attitude: Exhibited by focusing on opportunities not problems, see the glass as half-full not half-empty.
• Sense of Urgency: How we react and respond.

Skills And Requirements

• Associate degree or equivalent experience in broadcasting, media production, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 1-year prior experience in master control operations preferred. Must understand video and audio signal patterns.
• Ability to work quickly and accurately with names, numbers, and symbols.
• Ability to perform under pressure and adhere to deadlines.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Candidates require strong attention to detail, the ability to multitask efficiently, excellent communication and organizational skills, and must be dependable.
• Knowledge of computers and an aptitude for operating electronic equipment preferred.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Familiarity with FCC regulations and broadcast compliance standards preferred.
• Ability to perform other job-related duties as assigned.
• Capable of handling the physical and mental requirements including:
  • ability to verbally communicate in English
  • ability to read computer monitor information (words and data)
  • ability to hear detailed spoken word
  • ability to remain sedentary and to travel to work location
  • ability to perform manual dexterity tasks with hands, fingers
  • ability to analyze data, concentrate, reason, and write
  • ability to perform under emotional stress

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.