Lead 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.

Lead 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 Lead 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 production and on-air programming.
• Checking the video and audio quality of content during live and recorded programming, setting up records of incoming feeds and cutting/editing production and programming content.
• Advanced levels of operating in a fast paced, high pressure and deadline driven environment.
• Must demonstrate a highly developed, fluent and in-depth operational knowledge within the realm of server based operations, file formats, logistics and planning, non-linear editing, tape deck operations and duplication of content, broadcast routers, EVS systems, intercoms, planning of network content and media movement across a broadcast environment
• Measuring audio and video signals to ensure quality control of ESPN endorsed standards on all operations using comprehensive knowledge of broadcast methods.
• Demonstrating an advanced knowledge of editing techniques on non-linear systems.
• Understanding complex information and disseminating it to proper personnel in a clear and concise manner.
• Supporting ESPN Domestic networks, including Deportes, as well as all ESPN International networks.
• Active participation in training of others in operational areas and generation of training documentation.
• Creating learning opportunities that foster development for other operators.
• Prioritizing and disseminating information amongst the media crew in the control room to ensure seamless productions.
• 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. Encourage others to do the same.
• Problem solving, troubleshooting and effective communication to best convey any issues needing resolution.
• Seeking out information in regards to the workflow of other business units, including their impact and/or specific integration with Production Operations, and utilizing that information to enhance processes and/or educate others.
• Participation in training programs, (physical, classroom, virtual, etc.) for self-career development and/or regarding any relevant equipment and workflow changes within the operation.

Basic Qualifications:

• Minimum of 4 years practical TV Production or related experience at the large market or network level.
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Flexibility to alter shifts/days off and work overtime to accommodate projects and departmental objectives.
• Candidates must have expert knowledge of broadcast infrastructure, signal flow and transmission operations.
• Must demonstrate ability to perform tasks under tight deadlines, work independently and lead simultaneous projects.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills are a necessity.
• Organizational, efficiency and planning skills are required.
• Ability to initiate and lead projects especially with regards to training and enhancing business workflows.
• Ability to work as a part of a team dynamic.
• Must be willing and able to adapt to a 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.
• Solid knowledge of server playback system and non-linear editing systems such as Quantel.
• Advanced knowledge of TV Production equipment, workflows, and technology including but not limited to; broadcast routers, vector scope and waveform monitors, media management, and technical standards.
• Candidates must have a good computer background (Outlook, ENPS, Word, Excel, etc...) including experience with computer network signal flow.
• Bilingual (written and spoken) in both English and Spanish.

Required Education

• High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Preferred Education

• A College or Technical School degree in communications, electronics, television production or related field.

About ESPN:

About The Walt Disney Company:

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise with the following business segments: media networks, parks and resorts, studio entertainment, consumer products and interactive media. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney's stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.

This position is with ESPN Productions, Inc., which is part of a business segment we call ESPN.

ESPN Productions, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Disney fosters a business culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a rapidly changing world.

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