Chief Engineer

WCBD TV is an NBC Affiliate Station owned by Nexstar Media Inc. We are located in the beautiful Lowcountry area of Charleston SC. Charleston is known for its warm weather friendly people charming downtown outstanding food beautiful beaches and so much history.

Apply online at: Chief Engineeroversees the day to day operations of the Engineering Department and is responsible for the maintenance of all broadcast technology and equipment at the station.

WCBD is seeking a hands-on technical professional to help lead the engineering and technology operations of our television this role the Chief Engineer will 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 Ross OverDrive environment oversee the health of a large SDI plant and help guide the next wave of technical evolution while ensuring the daily broadcast runs reliably.

This position is designed for a well-rounded engineer who thrives at the intersection of broadcast and IT. You will be empowered to 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 South Carolinas most dynamic television operations. TheChief Engineermanages the operations of the Engineering department and is responsible for the maintenance of all broadcast technology IT equipment and vehicles at the stations locations including compliance with rules and regulations applicable to FCC local state and federal laws.

Core Responsibilities

Broadcast and Production Systems

• Maintain repair and optimize all studio control room and transmission systems
• Support Ross OverDrive automation production switchers graphics systems routers and 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

• Oversee Windows and Linux servers user workstations and system backups in coordination with corporate IT
• Manage network switches VLANs VPNs and local network security
• Support newsroom systems automation interfaces and shared storage environments
• Maintain alignment with Nexstar corporate IT and broadcast technology initiatives
• Ensure proper cybersecurity practices and software updates across technical systems
• Evaluates selects installs services and maintains station equipment and IT systems.

Facilities and Operations

• Oversee of building operations including HVAC plumbing power systems and physical security
• Coordinate with service vendors and contractors for preventive maintenance and repair
• Support generator and UPS systems and ensure readiness during severe weather and power events
• Oversee & maintain the transmitter site and tower maintenance
• Manage station facilities to maintain a safe efficient and reliable technical environment

Project and Vendor Management

• Research and evaluate new technologies for integration into station operations
• Manage vendor relationships request quotes and oversee project timelines
• Track capital and special projects through planning installation and documentation stages
• Coordinate with corporate engineering and IT teams to ensure compliance and consistency
• Maintain accurate technical inventories and service records

Leadership and Collaboration

• Serve as a key technical leader
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to maintenance engineers and IT staff
• 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

Technical Competencies

• Strong working knowledge of Ross OverDrive Carbonite or Vision switchers and newsroom automation systems
• Deep understanding of SDI signal flow routing audio distribution and monitoring systems
• Experience with Windows Server Active Directory system backups and basic Linux environments
• Knowledge of VLANs routing and network configuration within a broadcast plant
• Familiarity with AV control automation and hybrid broadcast IT systems
• Experience with transmitters microwave systems and RF fundamentals

Professional Skills

• 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
• Manages engineering and technology budgets and capital projects to the established budgets.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a live production environment
• Capable of lifting up to 50 pounds and working safely in studios racks and rooftop environments
• Ability to meet deadlines prioritize assignments and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to work flexible hours and be on call as needed for operations.
• Fluency in English; strong communication both verbal and written.
• Works closely with General Manager and department managers to ensure station objectives are being met.
• Evaluates employee access and trains employees on station systems and equipment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Experience and Education

• Five or more years of experience in broadcast engineering technical operations or IT system administration
• Associate or bachelors degree in engineering information technology or a related field or equivalent experience
• SBE certification or FCC General Radiotelephone License preferred but not required

#LI-Onsite

Nexstar Media Inc. is Americas largest local television/media company with 197 full power stations (including partner stations) in 115 markets addressing nearly 63% of US television households and a growing digital media. Nexstars platform delivers exceptional local content/network programming to inform/entertain viewers while providing premium local advertising across all screens/devices. Learn more at .

EEO Statement: Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled