Audio Engineer Job at American Public Media Group in Saint Paul

Job Summary

This position is a 4am - 12pm shift and the primary focus and responsibility is the production of live broadcasts, podcast production, recordings, and events for Marketplace Morning Report. The Audio Engineer works in support of Marketplace, APM’s national portfolio, and Minnesota Public Radio’s three regional services (MPR News, YourClassical, and The Current). The Audio Engineer will bring experience in audio production to help produce compelling content for our audiences.

The Audio Engineer will work within the Technology & Operations division and will collaborate with colleagues across our organization as well as external partners to maintain excellent technical quality of MPR/APM broadcasts, audio recordings, podcasts, and events.

Compensation and Work Location

Expected Compensation Range: $36.00-$38.00 per hour. Exact rate determined by experience and education related to the role, organizational compensation structure, and internal equity.

Work Location: St. Paul, MN

Application Process

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Application Deadline: Until filled.

Responsibilities

• Perform live audio mixing: on-air board operations, studio mixing of both talk and music, and sound reinforcement.
• Mix and process audio for multi-channel distribution.
• Recording and mixing of talk and music based audio content.
• Maintain advanced knowledge and operational skill in digital audio production using in-house software-editing platforms (currently utilized systems include Dalet and Pro Tools) as well as mixing consoles (currently utilized systems include Axia, Midas, and Yamaha digital consoles).
• Respond in a timely and professional manner to internal and external requests for audio files, technical assistance, and planning details.
• Collaborate closely with show hosts, directors, and producers to accommodate an efficient and creative broadcast/production environment.
• Establish and maintain the highest standards of audio and video production.
• Follow standard operating procedures and workflows to provide consistent production quality.
• Work with other departments and/or external partners to remain up to date on all technical and content changes and modifications.
• Test, connect, and monitor codecs and any other equipment necessary for live broadcasts (currently utilized systems include Comrex Access, LiveU, Opal, Riverside, Teams, and more).
• Operate audio/visual systems for events and meetings.
• Operate digital audio recording devices and interfaces for both in-house and field recording.
• Provide excellent customer service to both internal colleagues and external constituents.
• Provide back-up for other Audio Engineers and assist on various department activities as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or three or more years experience as an audio engineer.
• One or more years experience doing audio and/or video production work.
• Thorough knowledge and experience of field recording, sound reinforcement, studio recording, post‑production, and “live” broadcast procedures.
• Knowledge and experience with digital audio technologies and audio editing software.
• Computer literate with experience using PC and Mac platforms.

Required Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

• Planning, communications, and teamwork skills.
• Problem‑solving and technical troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships to achieve common goals.
• Ability to work independently or in a team environment.
• Effective written and oral communication.
• Ability to maintain composure and perform well under pressure.
• Support and troubleshoot computer hardware and software.
• Skillful operation of signal processing equipment and digital plug‑ins including equalizers, compressors, limiters, de‑essers, reverb, and other digital effects.
• Fluency in several digital audio workstation varieties; Pro Tools experience preferred.
• Experience operating and knowledge of audio consoles, microphones, mic pre‑amps, patch bays/routers, multi‑track recorders, AD/DA converters, and related equipment.
• Ability to multi‑task daily.
• Excellent customer service skills.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience in a broadcasting or media environment.
• Experience recording in many environments, including studios, control rooms, concert halls, churches, clubs, and outdoor venues.
• Operational experience with Internet Service Provider (ISP) technologies such as DSL, fiber, cable, and wireless technologies; knowledge of VoIP, IP codecs, consumer modems/routers, and network switches.
• Knowledge of digital production and content management systems for on‑air program production and automation.
• Solid background in electronics, audiovisual systems, audio systems signal flow, and basic electronics wiring.
• Knowledge of audio/visual equipment including projectors, video switchers, and other presentation technology.
• Ability to think about content editing from the audience perspective to shape a story or piece with creative editing and production techniques.

Reporting To This Position

None

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• Must be able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Position will require early morning hours.
• Position will at times require weekend, evening, and holiday work.
• Physical Demands:
  • Required to move about in an office environment.
  • Required to move about in the community.
  • Reach with hands and arms.
  • Balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch.
  • Frequent use of hands for data entry/keystrokes and simple grasping.
  • Required to lift audio and video equipment up to 70 lbs.
• Working Conditions:
  • Moderate noise level.
  • Occasional exposure to prevailing weather conditions.

Benefits

APMG offers a comprehensive benefits package including Medical plans with HSA and FSA options, Dental, Vision, Life and AD&D, Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability, Paid Parental Leave and Paid Caregiver Leave after 1 year, Vacation (3 weeks per year, prorated based on hours worked), Sick time (12 days, prorated based on hours worked), Holiday pay (10 holidays + 2 floating holidays each year), Volunteer time (8 hours per year), Long‑Term Care and Critical Illness insurance options, Employee Assistance Program, 403(b) Retirement Plan, and more.

EEO & Diversity Statement

Diversity creates a healthier atmosphere: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We are committed to hiring a breadth of diverse professionals and encouraging members of diverse groups to apply.

Seniority Level

Not Applicable

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Other

Industries

Broadcast Media Production and Distribution