WTHI-TV is seeking a hands-on technical professional to help lead the engineering and technology operations of our television station. This role partners directly with the Regional Chief Engineer to maintain, modernize, and future-proof all station systems, from traditional SDI broadcast infrastructure and automation to IT networks, building systems, and vendor relationships. You will support live news production in a Grass Valley hot-punch environment, oversee the health of a hybrid broadcasting plant, and help guide the next wave of technical evolution while ensuring daily broadcasts run reliably.
Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
The Right Fit:
This position is designed for a well-rounded engineer who thrives at the intersection of broadcast and IT. You will maintain, improve, and innovate across all technical systems while providing vital support to a fast-paced, live news environment. The ideal candidate is a steady hand, a creative problem solver, and a trusted partner ready to help lead one of the Wabash Valley’s most dynamic television operations.
Broadcast and Production Systems:
- Maintain, repair, and optimize all studio, control room, and transmission systems
- Support Grass Valley Kayak HD, production switchers, Chyron graphics systems, Grass Valley routers, Imagine ADC master control, and Wheatstone audio consoles
- Manage signal flow across SDI infrastructure, including routing, monitoring, and conversion systems.
- Work closely with production and news teams to resolve live on-air technical issues quickly and effectively
- Create and maintain clear system documentation and standard operating procedures
Information Technology and Networking:
- Work with the Regional IT manager to maintain Information technology and support users locally.
- Oversee VMware virtual machines, Windows servers, user workstations, and system backups in coordination with corporate IT
- Manage Active Directory, LAN/WAN-related hardware, and local network security
- Support newsroom systems, automation interfaces, and shared storage environments
- Maintain alignment with Gray Media corporate IT and broadcast technology initiatives
- Ensure proper cybersecurity practices and software updates across technical systems
Leadership and Collaboration:
- Serve as a key technical leader when the Chief Engineer is unavailable or off-site
- Promote proactive maintenance and continuous improvement within the department
- Communicate effectively with newsroom, production, and corporate personnel
- Maintain a calm, professional demeanor under pressure and during live operations
Desired Qualifications/Requirements:
- Working knowledge of Grass Valley switchers, Evertz, Imagine,& Grass Valley Routers, and ENPS
- Understanding of SDI signal flow, routing, audio distribution, and monitoring systems
- Experience with VMware virtual environments, Windows server, Active Directory, and system backups
- Knowledge of VLANs, routing, and network configuration within a broadcast plant
- Basic understanding of transmitters and RF fundamentals preferred
- Must be available for on-call support, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities with a proactive mindset
- Strong organizational and documentation skills with attention to detail
- Effective communication and vendor management skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a live production environment
- 5 or more years of experience in broadcast engineering and information technology