NPR seeks a customer-service focused and mission-driven Network Operations Center (NOC) Technician responsible for the smooth daily operations of the 24/7/365 NOC transmission facilities in Washington, DC. The ideal candidate executes the daily Public Radio Satellite System (PRSS) transmission schedules while providing oversight and control over the satellite carriers on bartered satellite space. Additionally, the technician is responsible for attending to urgent/last minute scheduling and operations requirements outside of standard business hours. The NOC Tech is also responsible for preliminary troubleshooting and communication to key stakeholders of PRSS and external customer transmission equipment, which include but are not limited to operational problems and arranging for alternate routings or further intervention by others to restore service. The Technician will provide quality assurance inspections for audio files and/or services along with monitoring hardware and facility operational conditions and proactively seeking out points of failure throughout the day.
- Operate/modify automation schedules, switchers, routers and computers in a live and time-driven environment with the full understanding and ability to perform the daily-required SOPs within the NOC, and escalate potential equipment/off air issues to the attention of Management.
- Operate all technical equipment within the NOC, including program capture and reproduction equipment; automation switching and scheduling equipment; audio and video satellite, IP and RF transmission and monitoring equipment while maintaining a professional work environment,.
- Monitor and test for audio/RF continuity and technical quality along with verifying continuity of the streamed transmissions, recorded media and file-based audio. Confirm the proper audio routing and transmission paths for events, and properly document findings.
- Coordinate with clients to ensure that services and media meet customers'. This includes providing additional technical customer service/troubleshooting if the customer requires further assistance with their content.
- Perform basic preventative maintenance (daily, weekly, and monthly) to the NOC equipment, while executing basic system operational and functional tests and reporting unresolved problems to stakeholders.
- Inspect incoming audio programs and verify that pre-recorded program audio media and/or files to be transmitted meet published specifications and are available for broadcast at the specified time. Spot-check file-based programs that have been delivered through the ContentDepot system for continuity, quality, and completeness and reporting any discrepancies found to management and or the producer/distributor of the program. Deliver impairment messages and updates to appropriate parties via proper channels and systems while monitoring the status of the program file delivery system.
- Take ownership of customer issues and follow through to resolution
- Two plus years broadcast engineering experience required. Public Radio experience preferred.
- Knowledge in MS Office Suite applications, and standard audio testing practices with broadcast equipment, automation, and procedures.
- Knowledge of radio/broadcasting/audio and electrical engineering terminology, automated audio reproduction, recording & switching systems and RF transmission systems preferred.
- Must be able to work independently or as a member of a team.
- Must be able to multi-task and prioritize under deadline pressure.
- Ability and willingness to work rotating shifts as required. This includes weekends, overnights, and holidays.
- Proven track record of supporting demanding client base with broadcast/audio production technology.
- Significant troubleshooting in audio broadcast technologies.
- Demonstrated experience providing high level of professional, courteous, and consistent interactions with clients.
- Demonstrated ability to multi-task and operate digital consoles in extremely high pressured on-air broadcast studio environment.
- Ability and willingness to work overtime as required.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- The incumbent must be able to work rotating shifts throughout the broadcast week (24 hours a day, seven days a week).
- Incumbent may be required to lift equipment weighing up to 75 pounds; reach and bend to obtain and pack remote equipment; climb stairs and ladders in remote locations, monitor and use computer all while sitting for extended periods.
- Possible travel, but rare.
NPR offers a competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package including health and wellness benefits, retirement, and work/life balance programs, as well as opportunities for career growth and development.