Broadcast Engineer I (Entry Level)

Job Title: Broadcast Engineer I (Entry Level)

Work Location: Austin, TX

Position Summary

The Broadcast Engineer I provides technical support for Shop LC's live television broadcast operations while working alongside experienced broadcast engineers. This entry-level position offers hands-on training with modern broadcast, streaming, networking, and production technologies in a fast-paced live television environment.

The successful candidate will gain experience supporting live broadcasts, maintaining professional broadcast equipment, troubleshooting technical issues, and learning the systems that power a 24/7 television network. This role is designed as a career-development opportunity with advancement potential into Broadcast Engineer II and other engineering positions.

What You Will Learn

• Professional live television operations
• Broadcast video and audio systems
• IP networking and video-over-IP workflows
• Streaming and cloud-based broadcast technologies
• Broadcast automation and server infrastructure
• Preventative maintenance and technical troubleshooting
• Live event and remote production support

Job Responsibilities

• Support the installation, configuration, maintenance, and operation of broadcast equipment.
• Monitor broadcast systems to ensure uninterrupted live programming.
• Assist with diagnosing and resolving issues involving video, audio, networking, automation, servers, and transmission systems.
• Perform preventative maintenance and routine inspections.
• Support senior engineers during live broadcasts and special productions.
• Provide technical support to production and operations staff.
• Maintain studio lighting, cameras, and production equipment.
• Maintain accurate documentation including wiring diagrams, equipment inventories, configuration changes, and troubleshooting procedures.
• Maintain organized equipment rooms and professional cable management.
• Record and archive broadcast content as required.
• Follow established electrical and workplace safety procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills & Experience

• Associate degree, technical certification, military technical training, or equivalent hands-on experience in Broadcast Technology, Electronics, Computer Networking, Information Technology, Electrical Technology, or a related technical field.
• Basic understanding of audio/video signal flow.
• Fundamental knowledge of computer hardware and Windows operating systems.
• Basic networking knowledge including Ethernet, TCP/IP, IP addressing, DHCP, and managed switches.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Demonstrated curiosity and passion for technology through school projects, home labs, gaming PCs, electronics, streaming, robotics, AV work, or similar technical hobbies.
• Strong communication skills, attention to detail, professionalism, and willingness to continuously learn.
• Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions during live broadcasts.
• Ability to work flexible schedules including evenings, weekends, holidays, and participation in an on-call rotation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
• Internship or hands-on experience in television, radio, live production, AV integration, or broadcast environments.
• Exposure to broadcast cameras, switchers, routers, audio consoles, video servers, or streaming technologies.
• Exposure to NDI, Dante, SRT, SMPTE ST 2110, cloud media workflows, or virtualization technologies.
• Knowledge of OBS Studio, vMix, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar software.
• Interest in obtaining SBE, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, Dante, Cisco, or similar industry certifications.

Ideal Candidate

We're looking for someone who enjoys figuring out how technology works, isn't afraid to troubleshoot problems, asks thoughtful questions, takes ownership of their work, and enjoys working in a fast-paced live production environment. You don't need to know everything—we're looking for someone with the aptitude, work ethic, and desire to become an outstanding broadcast engineer.

What Success Looks Like in Your First Year

• Learn Shop LC's broadcast infrastructure and workflows.
• Independently perform routine preventative maintenance.
• Confidently troubleshoot common broadcast system issues with guidance.
• Support live broadcasts and remote productions.
• Become a trusted member of the engineering team while building the skills needed for advancement.

Physical Requirements

• Stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb ladders as needed.
• Lift and move equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Work safely in studios, equipment rooms, and technical spaces.
• Use hand tools, test equipment, and measurement devices while following established safety procedures.