We are looking for a Senior Operations Engineer on a 12-month contract (or internal Attachment) to support Broadcast technology and systems used by our BBC Local production colleagues in the South East. This post will be based in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, with occasional travel to Brighton or Guildford.
As a Senior Operations Engineer at the BBC, you will play a key role in ensuring the smooth and uninterrupted operation of broadcast systems within the Tunbridge Wells regional centre, with its automated TV Gallery system and Local Radio studios.
You will be responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimising broadcast equipment, infrastructure, and workflows to support both live and recorded content transmission.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM
BBC South East is part of the BBC Regional network, which reaches millions of viewers and listeners daily. As a Senior Operations Engineer here, you will be contributing to technology support for TV News, Radio, and Online content.
You will work alongside highly skilled Engineers and Technology experts. The BBC is a globally respected institution with great benefits, and a positive work culture focused on diversity and inclusion.
YOUR KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND IMPACT:
- Monitor, maintain, and support broadcast systems across TV and Radio, as well as IP-based infrastructure across the Region.
- Perform scheduled and reactive maintenance on broadcast infrastructure to ensure optimal performance.
- Collaborate with Systems Specialists and regional teams to implement system upgrades and new technology deployments.
- Respond to and resolve operational incidents swiftly to minimize broadcast disruptions.
- Provide technical support during Live broadcasts and special events, including Radio OB’s (Sporting, Award Ceremonies and Music Events for example).
- Maintain detailed documentation of system configurations, incidents, and resolutions.
- We have broadcast vehicles with technical equipment fitted, and you will need to maintain them and perform quarterly checks to ensure their safe operation.
- There will be times when you are required to support building issues and consult with our Facilities Management partner.
YOUR SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:
- Experience in Electronics, Telecommunications, Broadcast Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Proven experience in a Live broadcast environment (TV or Radio), preferably in a regional or multi-site setup.
- Strong understanding of broadcast signal flow, video and audio formats (SDI, IP, AES), and transmission systems.
- Ability to diagnose and repair broadcast faults quickly and effectively under pressure.
- Proficiency in using broadcast monitoring tools and diagnostic equipment (waveform monitors, oscilloscopes, audio meters).
- Hands-on experience with broadcast equipment (vision/audio mixers, routers, talkback, camera systems, video servers, etc.).
DESIRED CRITERIA:
- Knowledge of key aspects of post-production, long and short form editing systems, visual effects and graphics, sound design and mixing
- Working knowledge of Windows and Mac based systems and software
- Knowledge of Cloud based systems and software
- Knowledge of Virtual Machines would be useful, but not essential.
If you can bring some of these skills and experience, along with transferable strengths, we’d love to hear from you and encourage you to apply.
