Master Control Operator

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world's population sees AP journalism every day.

The Associated Press is seeking a part-time Master Control Room (MCR) Operator to be based in Washington, DC. This role involves performing operational duties within the busy Master Control Room to a high technical and professional standard, supporting all departments and customers. You will be supporting the live operations of News, AP Direct, Live Choice, and AP 360 to ensure AP remains at the forefront of breaking news coverage.

Main Duties and responsibilities: (not in priority order)

• To service and support the needs and demands of all departments that use the MCR. To be courteous and polite to people you are dealing with, including internal and external clients.
• To quality monitor the throughput of video and audio signals and take the necessary steps to ensure optimum results.
• To carry out to a high standard routing, switching and co-ordination of various internal and external sources around the building and to the outside world.
• To record and playback material from the Video server as required and as organised by the ScheduALL Booking system.
• Have a good working knowledge of file-based video workflows
• To have a good working knowledge of national and international fiber and satellite, and IP networks.
• To have a good working knowledge of Television principles and practice.
• To understand APs global distribution and back-haul network. To enact back-up procedures in case of failure.
• To be familiar with satellite operations, both up-link and down-links and have a good working knowledge of different types of receivers.
• To ensure a clean, tidy, and safe working environment.
• To report any faults to the engineering team so they can be resolved. To ensure relevant departments are told of any disruptions or problems so they can work around them.
• To undertake any other duties as commensurate with the level of the post at the request of the line manager.
• To report any faults to the engineering team so they can be resolved. To ensure relevant departments are told of any disruptions or problems so they can work around them.
• To undertake any other duties as commensurate with the level of the post at the request of the line manager.
  
  

This job description is intended as a general guide to the scope of the post and may change in line with the needs of the service or at the request of the line manager.

Qualifications

• Able to work in 24/7 environment, including weekends and holidays.
• Have 2 years’ experience in a Broadcast environment.
• Formal relevant qualifications are desirable but not essential.
• Be IT literate.
• Flexible regarding attitude to work and the requirement to work unsociable hours as required.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Be polite and pro-active in your approach.
• Be able to work under pressure and prioritize workload.
• Be keen, quick to learn and a team player.
  
  

Employment is contingent on adhering to all company COVID-19 workplace safety policies and protocols, including providing proof of Covid-19 vaccination in accordance with applicable laws.

Advanced-level professional competency in written and spoken English language is required. Authorization to work in the United States for any employer is mandatory.

This position is covered by The Associated Press’ contract with the News Media Guild, which provides for an hourly rate for Class A staff of between $40.00 and $50.00 based on location and years of professional experience. AP may offer additional compensation based on a job candidate’s skills, qualifications, and market location. Employees are eligible to participate, according to the terms of the official plan documents, in a 401(k) plan and employer-sponsored health insurance plan and are eligible for paid time off and holidays in accordance with AP policy.

THE APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR THIS POSITION IS JULY 9, 2024 AT 11:59 PM EST.

AP seeks to build an inclusive organization grounded in respect for differences. We support all aspects of diversity and provide equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or status as a veteran. We encourage members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply.