Director of Engineering

Ideastream Public Media, a Cleveland-based multiple media organization and home to Ohio’s largest NPR, PBS and classical radio stations, is building on its recent merger with WKSU and expanding its trusted, in-depth, high-quality local news and information service to 22 counties in Northeast Ohio. As part of that expansion, Ideastream seeks an organized and technical professional to serve as Director of Engineering. We eagerly welcome individuals with diverse lived experiences and perspectives to enrich our work and bring fresh ideas into our organization.

Reporting to the Senior Director of Technology, the Director of Engineering is responsible for ensuring the successful design, installation, maintenance, and operation of our broadcast and television production equipment and systems. This position provides technical guidance and strategic direction to a team of engineers and technicians to ensure that all broadcast and television production systems operate reliably and efficiently, meet industry standards, and comply with regulatory requirements. In this role, you will manage the design, installation, and maintenance of all broadcast and television production equipment and systems including working with vendors, contractors, and internal teams to ensure that all equipment is properly installed and configured for optimal performance. You will also lead the technical planning and execution of studio and remote productions to ensure that the highest quality technical standards are met, and serve as the primary liaison to organizational partners including Playhouse Square, The City Club, and others, for the coordination of television and live-event productions.

Qualified candidates will demonstrate knowledge of FCC regulations and industry standards, have the ability to operate television broadcast equipment and transmission systems, and have experience planning and coordinating the technical operations of studio and remote productions and events. The candidate will also have strong verbal and written communication, decision making and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with ATSC 3.0 and/or SMPTE ST2022/ST2110 is a plus.

A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, ten years of related experience in television broadcasting and engineering, including experience in both traditional and digital media, and experience managing a team of engineers and technicians is preferred, though an equivalent of experience in related fields and education will be considered. The salary range for this position begins at $92,000 and is commensurate with experience.  We offer a rich benefits program including medical coverage, a 403(b) plan with an employer match, paid time off, a parking subsidy, a lunch delivery service subsidy and much more. A valid Ohio drivers’ license is required.

Ideastream Public Media is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) is one of our core values, wherein we seek and incorporate the myriad diverse perspectives and lived experiences of our users, staff, board, and communities into all aspects of our work. While we don’t have all the answers to DEIB, we are making improvements through staff engagement, leadership training and recruitment efforts. We hope you join us on our journey and contribute to our efforts moving forward.