Media Operator

This is a Full Time Job

ESPN Production Operations is a unit within the Production division of ESPN Content. Our staff comprises Network Control, Content Edit, Studio Operations, Production Control Rooms, Media Operations, Facility Resources and Business Operations. We also have specialists in resource project coordination and administration. Though we staff many traditional roles in the television industry, our work is produced and then converted into many formats for distribution on multiple linear and digital platforms.

The Media Operations team is responsible for the planning, sourcing, distribution, processing and archiving of various types of the media formats and content, including distribution of on-air programming. Position can be assigned and will work within many of the operational and logistics areas in this team.

Media Operators work with many departments and customers within and outside of ESPN. Work will be performed in a fast paced environment for a wide variety content requirements. The Media Operator in the Media Operations group will be responsible for organizing, recording, editing, playing back, transcoding and archiving various media formats and server based material during live and pre-recorded productions while ensuring all content meets ESPN's high standards for video and audio quality. They are also responsible for media management and naming conventions.

Our ideal candidate must be flexible with their schedule as this is a 24/7 operation and should expect to work nights, holidays and weekends. Frequently sit, stand, walk, kneel and reach. Lift and/or carry an average of 20 pounds long distances and/or up stairs as required. The ability to perform the job at hand under a tight deadline while demonstrating strong interpersonal communication skills is a must. Other skills that we are looking for in our candidates include: organizational and planning skills, being able to adapt to a constantly changing environment, strong communication skills and a good computer background with programs such as Outlook and Excel.

Responsibilities
• Organization and distribution of all server content used for recording and playback.
• Checking the video and audio quality of content during live and recorded programming, setting up records of incoming feeds and editing show content.
• Demonstrate knowledge in the use of all broadcast equipment and technology as assigned, including but not limited to, standard and high-definition operations, tape deck operations and duplication of content, broadcast routers, intercoms, planning of network content and media movement, content management, linear and non-linear edit systems, encoding systems, server-based recordings/playback devices, server networking, EVS operations, and more.
• Operating in a fast paced, high pressure and deadline driven environment.
• Demonstrating a basic knowledge of editing techniques on non-linear systems.
• Organizational and multitasking skills are required.
• Understanding complex information and disseminating it to proper personnel in a clear and concise manner.
• Measuring audio and video signals to ensure quality control of ESPN endorsed standards on all operations using comprehensive knowledge of broadcast methods.
• Seeking out information in regards to the workflow of other business units, including their impact and/or specific integration with Production Operations.
• Problem solving, troubleshooting and effective communication to best convey any issues needing resolution.
• Participation in training programs, (physical, classroom, virtual, etc.) for self-career development and/or regarding any relevant equipment and workflow changes within the operation.
• May participate in training others in operational areas and generating training documentation.
• Supporting ESPN Domestic networks, including Deportes, as well as all ESPN International networks.
• Participation in required administrative tasks including, but not limited to, the effective utilization of all ESPN software based applications such as time entry, travel and expense filing, and daily shift reporting.
• Embrace company initiatives including town and/or departmental meetings, upward feedback, performance management applications and employee surveys.
• Understanding of CC systems and associated workflows.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage simultaneous projects.
• Expected participation in departmental initiatives, contributing and influencing medium scale projects.
• Ability to collaborate with Technology Teams to enhance existing applications.
• Expected to influence training strategies, and key player in the training program for new employees.
• Expected to provide strategic thinking for day-to-day operations.
• Expected to train and gain advanced skills in different operational areas to best facilitate the coordination of assignments.

Basic Qualifications
• A minimum of 2 years practical TV production or related experience.
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Flexibility to alter shifts/days off and work overtime to accommodate projects and departmental objectives.
• Must demonstrate ability to perform tasks under tight deadlines, work independently and prioritize simultaneous projects.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills are a necessity.
• Organizational, efficiency and planning skills are required.
• Ability to work as a part of a team dynamic.
• Must be willing and able to adapt to constantly changing environment.
• Candidates must have good computer background (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc…) and strong communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience in a live production environment.
• Familiarity with a server playback system and non-linear editing systems such as Quantel.
• Candidates must have a good computer background (Outlook, ENPS, Word, Excel, etc…) including experience with computer network signal flow.
• Bilingual in both English and Spanish.
• Understanding of server-based recording/playback, format conversions, EVS, transcoding systems and file formats.

Required Education
• High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Preferred Education
• Bachelor's Degree or Technical School degree in communications, electronics, television production or related field.

Company Overview At Disney, we're storytellers. We make the impossible, possible. We do this through utilizing and developing cutting-edge technology and pushing the envelope to bring stories to life through our movies, products, interactive games, parks and resorts, and media networks. Now is your chance to join our talented team that delivers unparalleled creative content to audiences around the world.

Additional Information:
ESPN is an equal opportunity employer - Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity. Our goal is to create an inclusive workplace for all.