The Audio Operator I, Comms Specialist (A2)

Position Summary: 

The Audio Operator I, Comms Specialist (A2) is responsible for providing communications support for live event productions executed in a ESPN facility in conjunction with remote production facilities and mobile units. Work will be performed in a fast-paced environment for a wide variety of productions and events which rely on non-traditional production approaches.  

The Audio Operator I, Comms Specialist (A2) is responsible for the configuring, troubleshooting and quality control of in-house intercom communications and interconnectivity to other locations during live productions. They should have a basic understanding of remote connectivity and remote production as well as mobile unit setup and configuration. A skilled multi-tasker, they are expected to collaborate across various teams including Production, Directing, Remote Operations and various ESPN Technology teams to support the technical infrastructure and configuration of each unique production. Additionally, they are expected to respond to various communications requests to meet all production-related needs.  

A skilled trouble-shooter, they will be expected to diagnose problems quickly and find both immediate and permanent solutions. They will be expected to work with their peers to continually evaluate and improve the management of technical resources as well as workflows created to meet production needs. 

Responsibilities: 

• Provide Audio/Comms support for all positions of a REMI or Non-Traditional Production, including Producer, Director, TD, A1, Replay, & Graphics. Collaborate with Audio/Comms partners across ESPN. Maintain professionalism and strong communication when supporting and troubleshooting.  . 
• Build a solid foundation of troubleshooting in order to properly diagnose technical communication issues as they arise. Ensure excellent communication is utilized in discussing technical issues and solutions with internal and external stakeholders 
• Participate in training programs, (physical, classroom, virtual, etc.) for career growth and development and/or regarding any relevant equipment and workflow changes within the operation.   
• Maintain documentation of Audio/Comms resources, technical documentation and audio/comms tie line allocation   
• Expected to collaborate across the enterprise build out and maintain production-related audio configurations and technical plans to support the needs of each live production 
• Expected to collaborate across the enterprise build out and maintain production-related audio configurations and technical plans to support the needs of each live productions. 
• Contributes to administrative work on various platforms (O365, Smartsheet, SAP) 

Qualifications: 

• Minimum of 2 years practical TV Production or related experience at the small to medium broadcast market, digital/streaming platform, and/or comparable collegiate broadcast level. 
• Basic knowledge of all TV production equipment and technology within assigned operating areas.  
• “On-air” live TD experience using industry standing equipment. 
• Ability to perform tasks under tight deadlines, work independently and support simultaneous projects.   
• Scheduling flexibility including the ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays.   
• Must be willing and able to adapt to a constantly changing environment.  
• Strong interpersonal communication, customer service, organizational, computer and planning skills. 
• Ability to work as a part of a dynamic team 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Basic Understanding of Remote Integrated workflows and terminology. 
• Basic Understanding of Remote productions and mobile units  
• Basic Understanding of intercom system components including vendors: RTS/Telex, Riedel and/or Unity 
• Basic Understanding of audio signal types including: Analog, AES, Embedded, MADI, Dante, AES67/Ravenna 
• Basic Understanding of Talent Commentator Box setup including setup, connectivity, signal flow and troubleshooting 
• Basic understanding of building an intercom file from scratch based on production needs and requests 
• Regional level communications support experience and/or experience with in-depth communications infrastructure  
• Bilingual (written & spoken) – English/Spanish 

Required Education: 

• High School, Vocational Diploma or Equivalent 

Preferred Education: 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Communication, Studio/Television Production or related field 

Additional Information: (i.e. physical requirements, holiday, nights, weekend shifts, etc.) 

Must be able to work nights, holidays and weekends. 

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