What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Engineer position at WDRB Media?
Chief Engineer – WDRB Media
WDRB Media is seeking a forward-thinking Chief Engineer to lead our Engineering Department. This role is critical in maintaining and advancing our broadcast and IT infrastructure, ensuring our stations stay on the air with the highest technical quality. If you're a solutions-driven leader passionate about broadcast technology, innovation, and team development, we want to hear from you.
What You'll Do:
WDRB Media is seeking a forward-thinking Chief Engineer to lead our Engineering Department. This role is critical in maintaining and advancing our broadcast and IT infrastructure, ensuring our stations stay on the air with the highest technical quality. If you're a solutions-driven leader passionate about broadcast technology, innovation, and team development, we want to hear from you.
What You'll Do:
- Oversee all engineering functions, including equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and future technology planning.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of Broadcast and IT Engineers.
- Ensure compliance with all FCC regulations and industry standards.
- Manage the installation, repair, and maintenance of broadcast equipment, IT systems, and transmission facilities.
- Develop and manage department budgets, including capital and operational expenditures.
- Maintain station infrastructure, including buildings, grounds, and technical assets.
- Work collaboratively with the General Manager and Senior Leadership to align engineering strategies with company goals.
- Provide technical support for live broadcasts, remotes, and press events.
- Interface with internal teams and external vendors to drive efficient operations.
- 5 years of experience in broadcast engineering, IT, or a related field.
- Degree in Systems Engineering, IT, or a related technical discipline (or equivalent experience).
- Certifications such as FCC General Class License, SBE, A , ACMT, CTO, CBT, CBTE, or CBNE preferred.
- Strong expertise in OTT digital broadcast systems to include clear understanding of SCTE Marker insertion, Bit Central Core News, RF transmission via Gates Air Transmitters, SAF microwave, and IP-based workflows.
- Proven ability to lead teams, set performance standards, and drive a culture of innovation.
- Strong troubleshooting skills with a hands-on approach to problem-solving.
- Flexibility to handle on-call duties and emergency repairs, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Ability to work at heights, lift up to 50 lbs, and operate in various weather conditions.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to transmitter sites as needed.
- Industry-leading benefits, including low-cost health, dental, and vision coverage.
- 100% company-paid Health Savings Account, Life Insurance, Short & Long-Term Disability.
- Paid Maternity and Paternity Leave.
- 6% 401K match – one of the best in the industry!
- Generous paid time off
- Company-sponsored YMCA membership.
- A collaborative, innovative, and values-driven work culture.
- Opportunities for professional growth and learning.
- WDRB was voted a Best Place to work in Kentucky 9 years in a row.