01/19/1995 17730

BROADCAST ENGINEER

DEFINITION: This is advanced technical television broadcast engineering work.

An employee in this class installs, tests, operates, and maintains video and audio equipment for television broadcast, the switching center and the Capitol Media Center. Work involves monitoring audio, video and synchronous signals for conformance with published and accepted standards for television broadcast; electronic editing of audio and video tapes; taking action to correct technical deficiencies; repairing and installing complex electronic equipment and instruments; developing proposals for new or expanded systems; and preparing design criteria, design concept, and specifications for the purchase of related systems. Work may include lead work responsibility for broadcast functions including assigning work, making technical decisions regarding operation and maintenance functions, etc to both agency employees, contracted workers and media personnel. Work is performed independently with supervisory review through periodic conferences and results achieved for adherence to established standards.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Monitors and directs the adjustment of, or adjusts television signal to conform with FCC specifications.

Monitors and directs the switching of multiple television signal sources to multiple destinations including: satellite uplinks, the Capitol's closed circuit TV network, the Capitol Media Center, editing bays, and video tape records.

Performs audio and video network tests and records incoming satellite or fiber optic feeds reporting any technical difficulties and corrections made to supervisor.

Evaluates, researches, and recommends audiovisual, teleproduction and test equipment.

Installs equipment and performs preventive maintenance and repairs.

Trains other personnel in the proper use of systems and equipment.

Converts instantaneously to manual operation as required as well as making last minute corrections in flow information without affecting the switched program material.

Sets up equipment and ensures proper operation and continually reviews new developments in equipment and techniques.

Coordinates the activities of lower level technicians responsible for the switching operation and for the video tape operation to assure that proper broadcast programs are routed to the correct destinations.

Works with technicians assigned from in-house and outside production crews in the performance of duties during peak periods.

Performs maintenance work on equipment to assure the continued operation of the Commonwealth Media Services studio, edit bays, audio production area, master control area, and Capitol Media Center.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of electronic theory and practices.

Knowledge of electronic switching and video tape equipment used in television broadcast operations.

Skill in the use of various electronic test measurement equipment.

Ability to install, maintain and operate complex television equipment.

Ability to install systems and repair electronic devices from general instructions.

Ability to analyze and interpret schematic diagrams, electronic specifications and equipment manuals.

Ability to analyze ideas clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with production management, technical personnel and program representatives.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Two years as a Broadcast Technician.

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Graduation from high school or an equivalency, supplemented by one year of technical training in electronics, and five years of technical experience in television broadcast transmission or in a television production center.

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Any equivalent combination of experience and training that affords the applicant with the Required Knowledges, Skills and Abilities.