Master Control Specialist

This is a Full Time Job

Position Summary:

The Master Control Specialist is a member of MPR’s ICC (International Control Center) team, working in support of MPR’s regional and national network services and providing around the clock support services for APM Distribution and client stations. The ICC team works interdepartmentally to assess, anticipate, and respond to technical, distribution and production challenges. ICC Specialists provide technical and distribution support on a 24-hour, 7 days a week basis. This is a weekend overnight position, working four 10-hour shifts each week.

We know that not every candidate will meet every qualification listed here. If you bring technical aptitude, strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to supporting reliable public media service, we encourage you to apply.

Location: On-Site, St. Paul, MN

Application Process: Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Application Deadline: Open until filled.

Position Responsibilities:
• Transmit live remote programming utilizing IP codecs, microwave and satellite technology. Creatively use ancillary equipment to ensure that the highest audio quality possible is delivered to our distribution channels.
• Manage audio intended to air on MPR’s regional and national services using the DALET play to air system, program logs, patterns, automation players and studio assignment.
• Operate ICC including recording incoming feeds, troubleshooting network and local transmission systems, providing helpdesk services for digital editing systems, routing and patching signal sources, operating Content Depot, building playlists for later 'on-air' program broadcast and providing first echelon maintenance.
• Provide technical support for MPR|APM and APM client stations.
• Prepare audio items for the MPR archive.
• Establish, calibrate, and monitor any equipment necessary for radio broadcast and production, including IP equipment, signal processing and various broadcast recording formats.
• Maintain the highest standards of customer service and technical knowledge in the MPR|APM Master Control.
• Monitor and report on building systems including security, fire alarms and heating and cooling issues.
• Participate in regular staff training and readiness in support of the public radio system’s Network Operations Center backup at the MPR St. Paul, MN facility.
• Contribute to creating and updating the Master Control standard operating procedures.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting to APM national distribution unit and client stations.
• Operate and support national content distribution sites, including Content Depot and PRX.
• Operate the Back-up Network Operating Center for National Public Radio.
• Work with APM Distribution, broadcast services and Master Control teams to communicate program information.
• Monitor and manage MPR|APM programs, episodes, and episode segments in the Content Depot, PRX, and other distribution channels, both upload for distribution and download to air.
• Work with Manager to remain up to date on all technical and/or content changes and modifications.
• Work at night, in the MPR|APM International Control Center 20:00 – 06:00 Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and as the work schedule requires, including holidays as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience
• 2-year associate’s degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Two or more years’ experience as an audio/video/media engineer, technician, or similar.
• Knowledge and experience with digital audio workstations.

Required Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:
• Skilled in working with Digital Audio Workstations and other pro audio equipment
• Excellent customer service skills; be able to handle phone calls in a professional manner.
• Attention to detail and a deadline driven personality.
• Well versed in the operation of audio processing equipment, microphones, consoles, and audio storage devices.
• Ability to work independently.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Professional, confidential demeanor and ability to exercise judgment.
• Work well with others.

Preferred Skills and Experience:
• Bachelor’s degree.
• Solid skills in working with Axia and ENCO, Dalet and other broadcast delivery systems at MPR|APM.
• Working knowledge of the Public Radio Satellite System and the Content Depot.
• Operational experience with satellite downlink equipment; rf transmission remote control gear.
• Solid background in electronics and basic audio wiring.

Reporting to This Position: None

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:
• Must be able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to manage some work outside of standard office hours as needed.
• Physical Demands:
• Required to move about in an office environment and sit for extended periods of time
• Required to move about in the community
• Frequent use of hands for data entry/keystrokes and simple grasping
• Working Conditions:
• Moderate noise level

Diversity creates a healthier atmosphere: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.