The Technical Operator’s role is to support the delivery of studio broadcast and communication services. He/She will work closely with the Engineering and IT departments to ensure effective operations of broadcast and studio equipment.

JOB DESCRIPTION – TECHNICAL OPERATOR

IRIE FM

 Job Title:                       Technical Operator

Department Name:        Production

 Working Hours:               (8-hour shifts as per roster)

 You may be required to work on a weekend due to the nature of your job; you may also be called upon to attend work in cases of natural disasters and states of emergencies and holidays.

Reporting Relationship:   Production Manager/HOD

 Job Objective/Summary

The Technical Operator’s role is to support the delivery of studio broadcast and communication services. He/She will work closely with the Engineering and IT departments to ensure effective operations of broadcast and studio equipment. Manipulate and manage audio and video content for on-air delivery and archiving. The individual will coordinate with various departments for voice recording to different media and file types and ensure excellent output quality for on-air delivery.

Summary of Duties for IRIE FM:

Operational Management

• Control audio equipment to regulate volume level and quality of sound during radio and television broadcasts.
• Monitor and maintain the quality of remote broadcasts
• Monitors and work with station personnel to determine audio levels to make sure that programs are transmitted correctly.
• Report equipment problems, ensure that repairs are made, and make emergency minor repairs to equipment when necessary.
• Play and record broadcast programs using automation systems.
• Maintain programming logs, as required by station management and government regulators.
• Regulate the fidelity, brightness, and contrast of video transmissions, using video console control panels.
• Select sources from which programming will be received, or through which programming will be transmitted.
• Set-up, operate, and maintain broadcast station computers and networks.
• Substitute programs in cases where signals fail.
• Record sound onto tape, computer system or film for radio or television, checking its quality and making adjustments where necessary.
• Preview scheduled programs to ensure that signals are functioning, and programs are ready for transmission.
• Schedule programming or read station programming logs to determine which programs are to be recorded or aired.
• Prepare reports outlining past and future programs, including content.
• Instruct trainees in how to use production equipment, how to record events, and how to manipulate audio and video files using different software tools.
• Edit broadcast material electronically, using computers.
• Discuss production requirements with presenters and other stakeholders and provide technical directions/guidance as necessary.
• Determine the number, type, and approximate location of microphones needed for best sound recording or transmission quality and position them appropriately.
• Organize recording sessions and prepare areas such as booths and live streaming stations for recording.
• Set up and operate portable field transmission equipment outside the studio.
• Ingest, encode, transcode, and perform technical quality checks on a variety of media.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Requirements:

Formal Education & Certification

• Formal training at a technical or vocational institution in audio technology, broadcast technology or music production, a university undergraduate certification such as an associate degree in related areas is acceptable as well.
• Prior audio and video or electronics experience are highly advantageous. Alternatively, five years’ experience/training in related fields or, an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Set up, operate, and maintain the electronic equipment used to transmit radio and television signals (would be an advantage)

Knowledge & Experience

• Must have the ability to read, analyze, and interpret trade journals and technical procedures.
• Ability to write reports, communicate vital information, and respond to questions from managers.
• Ability to solve practical problems and communicate effectively via e-mail and telephone.
• Ability to learn how to use a variety of recording equipment, and to operate different radio studios.
• Expert knowledge of various audio and video editing software such as Sound Forge and Vegas by Magix, Audacity, etc.
• Ability to conduct effective internet research, use relevant computer software for audio editing, and, when necessary, to manipulate visual images or edit video, and upload all such material to on-air systems or websites.
• Must be proficient in working with windows-based systems in a networked environment.
• Working Knowledge of basic computer hardware and software.
• Knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety guidelines and procedures.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Quick learning with ability to adapt to new procedures and environments.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment.
• Strong documentation skills with keen attention to detail.
• Ability to meet deadlines.
• Highly self-motivated and directed.

Work Conditions

• 40-hour on-site work week with on-call availability for after normal work hours.
• Sitting for extended periods.
• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, power tools, and other computer components.
• Lifting and transporting of moderately heavy equipment.