Chief Engineer
Chattanooga, TN
Full Time
Experienced
Job Title: Chief Engineer
Station: WDEF-TV
Location: Chattanooga
Department: Engineering / Technical Operations
Reports To: General Manager
Position Summary
WDEF-TV is seeking an experienced, hands-on Chief Engineer to lead all technical operations for our broadcast, digital, and production systems. This leadership role is responsible for maintaining FCC compliance, ensuring uninterrupted on-air performance, and guiding the station’s technical strategy in a rapidly evolving media environment.
The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of broadcast engineering, and a passion for keeping systems running at peak performance.
Key Responsibilities
Qualifications
Preferred Experience
Work Environment
Compensation & Benefits
Station: WDEF-TV
Location: Chattanooga
Department: Engineering / Technical Operations
Reports To: General Manager
WDEF-TV is seeking an experienced, hands-on Chief Engineer to lead all technical operations for our broadcast, digital, and production systems. This leadership role is responsible for maintaining FCC compliance, ensuring uninterrupted on-air performance, and guiding the station’s technical strategy in a rapidly evolving media environment.
The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of broadcast engineering, and a passion for keeping systems running at peak performance.
- Oversee all engineering and technical operations, including studio, control room, transmitter, and IT infrastructure
- Ensure compliance with all Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and regulations
- Maintain and troubleshoot broadcast equipment, automation systems, and transmission facilities
- Manage capital projects, upgrades, and preventative maintenance programs
- Lead and mentor engineering staff and coordinate with news, production, and sales teams
- Oversee IT systems, including networking, cybersecurity, and file-based workflows
- Manage vendor relationships, service contracts, and equipment procurement
- Maintain accurate engineering logs, records, and regulatory filings
- Respond to technical emergencies and provide on-call support as needed
- Minimum 5–7 years of broadcast engineering experience, including leadership experience
- Strong knowledge of television broadcast systems, RF transmission, and digital workflows
- Experience with automation systems, master control, and IP-based infrastructure
- Understanding of FCC regulations and compliance requirements
- Proficiency in IT systems, networking, and troubleshooting
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- SBE certification or relevant technical certifications preferred
- Experience in a local television newsroom environment
- Familiarity with ATSC standards and next-generation broadcast technologies
- Experience with facility upgrades, system integration, and project management
- Fast-paced television broadcast environment
- Occasional evenings, weekends, and on-call responsibilities
- Ability to lift and move technical equipment as needed
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and holidays
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