Who we are

KCRW is a public media leader, creating and curating a unique mix of content centered around music discovery, NPR news, cultural exploration and informed public affairs. We are driven by the spirit of Los Angeles and deliver in innovative ways - on the radio, digitally and in person - to diverse, curious communities around the corner and around the world.

What we need

Public Radio is a vital local service providing local and national news, information and entertainment to millions of Americans each day. It also is part of the critical emergency infrastructure for local communities during natural disasters and other crises as a free, easily accessible service.

While there are over 250 local public radio stations in the country, the broadcast engineers that keep the towers and transmissions running seamlessly are becoming difficult to find.

The Public Radio Engineer Apprenticeship Program aims to build and diversify the next generation of engineers and seeks to address the growing need of radio engineers by providing hands-on, paid training to the next generation of engineers.

The program connects selected candidates with public radio stations around the country in an 18 month apprenticeship program with existing public radio engineers to train and learn the needs of this critical role.

This position is a combination of theoretical and hands-on responsibilities; working behind the scenes installing, maintaining and repairing transmitter, satellite and microwave systems, computer networks and studio electronics. The ideal candidate must be able to complete all physical requirements of the job, such as climbing tall ladders and lifting equipment weighing as much as 50 lbs, with or without a reasonable accommodation.The position will also require availability at non-traditional hours and may require many hours of travel by car

This is a hybrid position and will spend 3-5 days per week at KCRW facilities.

KCRW has in effect a COVID-19 vaccine mandate for all employees beginning September 15, 2021. The mandate is subject to accommodation in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Responsibilities

The apprenticeship covers three main areas of public radio engineering: Operations, IT and Engineering.

• Engineering: Overview of transmitters systems, microwave links, satellite systems, dishes and receivers, our uplink system, maintenance, site safety practices and FCC compliance issues and practices.
• IT: Overview on networking, audio over IP and how it's deployed in a station’s systems, real world studio interconnection and distribution (ex: Axia, Livewire), remote audio connections and support.
• Operations: Shadow and understand on-air board operator duties, production techniques and how to use the tools in the position (Audio Delivery System, Editing system, & Control Room operations).
• Concurrently, apprentice candidates will work through the first two levels of the Public Engineer Training Program. All costs will be covered by KCRW.
• The Radio Engineering Apprentice may also perform other duties as assigned within these areas.

• This is a full-time, non-exempt, at-will position. The annual salary is $56,000.
• Those successfully completing the requirements will be awarded a certificate demonstrating proficiencies in either a public radio operator, public radio technologies or public radio engineer. These certifications distinguish those working in or seeking a tech career in public media.
• Public Radio Operator Certificate is evidence of an individual’s qualifications to serve as an operator at a radio broadcast station. This entry-level certificate indicates that the holder has acquired the basic knowledge to operate a radio station and comply with FCC rules and regulations.
• Public Radio Technologist Certificate is evidence of an individual’s qualifications to set up, operate, and maintain radio station equipment, such as transmitters, terrestrial and satellite antenna systems, studio consoles, microphones, audio codecs and test equipment. This mid-level certificate also indicates that the holder has a working knowledge of FCC rules and regulations. *Prerequisite: Public Radio Operator Certificate or the applicant must meet all of the requirements of the Public Radio Operator Certificate.
• Eligible for overtime and premium working holiday pay rate
• Sick leave award
• Vacation leave accrual
• Paid holidays
• Health insurance (including medical, dental, vision, FSA, life and AD&D) eligibility
• 403(b) with company match
• Passionate office environment surrounded by an incredible community of curious and talented colleagues
• KCRW is a qualifying employer under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program - read more here to determine your eligibility

KCRW aims to be representative of Southern California, and candidates with traditionally underrepresented backgrounds and perspectives are encouraged to apply. KCRW is an equal opportunity employer and actively recruits to promote diversity in our workforce. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, status as a parent, national origin, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit based factors.