Broadcast Network Technician I

About the Agency

Mississippi Public Broadcasting is a trusted multimedia organization that educates, enlightens, and entertains Mississippians. As the only statewide radio and television broadcast network, MPB connects Mississippi households and communities. MPB programming focuses on the people, resources, and attractions that reflect Mississippi’s unique culture and diverse heritage. Children’s educational television programs constitute a major portion of the daytime and weekend morning schedules. MPB provides a valuable resource to Mississippians in disseminating information as part of the state’s emergency preparedness and response system. Every weekday, MPB News produces 11 newscasts dedicated to Mississippi stories. In 2015, MPB launched the latest iteration of the MPB Public Media App. With live stream, on-demand episodes of both radio and television favorites, and the latest from MPB news, the MPB App provides listeners and viewers with a way to stay connected, no matter where in the world they may be. MPB reaches over 50,000 people a day through various social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. MPB's social channels provide information, news, and entertainment around the clock, even in emergency situations. Questions about this position can be emailed to careers@mpbonline.org.

About the Position

Mississippi Public Broadcasting is seeking a Broadcast Network Technician for the agency's Transmission Division to assist in the maintenance and upgrading of transmitter and microwave tower sites. Primary responsibilities include supporting sites in the north-central region, specifically Inverness and Ackerman, with occasional overnight travel to assist with maintenance at other locations statewide. The ideal candidate must possess general knowledge of power generation equipment and UPS backup power systems, HVAC systems, and general DTV and FM broadcast knowledge and experience. RESPONSIBILITIES: (1.) Assisting with and performing equipment upgrades. (2.) Assisting with the management of power generation equipment, electrical transfer, and voltage regulation equipment. Assisting with generator and electrical maintenance contracts, mechanics, support personnel, and fuel service vendors. (3.) Assisting with yard maintenance at all tower sites, assisting with contracts for fence line and guy alley brush cutting and timber clearing, maintaining road and site accessibility, fences, and property security. (4.) Must attend equipment vendor training sessions and become familiar with all equipment at all microwave and DTV/FM transmitter locations. (5.) Will assist with special projects at the Central Office and all remote microwave and DTV/FM transmitter sites throughout the state. (6.) Be available after hours, during natural disasters, and emergencies to provide critical repair, restoration, and recovery support. (7.) Stay up to date on FCC Policy and Technical Operating Conditions for the MPB licenses they support. (8.) Advise on equipment and technology upgrades, take an active role in system designs and equipment installations, as well as building upgrades and renovations. (9.) Project Management and contractor supervisory skills are essential. (10.) A practical knowledge and experience in Radio Frequency (RF) fundamentals, high voltage electrical, digital audio, and video electronics is required. (11.) Knowledge of IT, switches, and wide area networks would be beneficial. (12.) Clean driving record and the ability to operate heavy pickup trucks off-road in four-wheel drive. (13.) Be physically capable of lifting 50lb, climbing ladders, and feel comfortable at heights. -- This position is classified as State Service, Non-Exempt. M-F Equal Opportunity Employer.

Preferred Qualifications

Typically requires completion of an apprenticeship program in the trade area or 4-6 years of on-the-job training in the trade area. **Agency Preferred Qualifications: A high school diploma and four (4) years of related experience, preferably in working with broadcasting equipment for television and radio.

What you'll need to be Successful

The ability to work independently to assist with the maintenance of microwave and transmission tower sites. The willingness to travel to various sites to maintain equipment. The ability to serve as a backup for other Broadcast Network Technicians.