Description

Nexstar Media Group's Chicago operation (WGN-TV, NewsNation, Antenna TV, and Rewind TV) is seeking a hands-on, technically advanced Engineering Maintenance Department Manager to lead a team of highly skilled maintenance engineers supporting our mission-critical broadcast operation. This role requires a hybrid of engineering expertise, IT competency, and leadership excellence. The ideal candidate will be fluent in both broadcast and IT technologies and capable of managing complex, dynamic systems with a focus on preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and long-term system health.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

• Lead and mentor the Maintenance Engineering team, including work prioritization, performance management, and professional development
• Delegate tasks appropriately to align strengths of the team with operational needs
• Communicate effectively across departments and with senior leadership
• Collaborate closely with IT Manager and Installations teams to ensure system integrity and coordinated efforts
• Oversee scheduling and support for studio productions, remote broadcasts, and special projects

Technical Oversight

• Provide hands-on support and guidance for troubleshooting studio and field equipment, including HD/SDI/ASI signal chains and RF paths
• Ensure regular preventive maintenance and repair of studio equipment: LED walls, controllers, robotic cameras, anchor desk monitors, jib arms, Steadicams, Clear-Com systems, and prompter monitors
• Maintain operational readiness of all in-studio systems, including mechanical and electromechanical components
• Interpret and work from signal flow diagrams, schematics, and AutoCAD engineering drawings
• Manage LED wall systems including configuration and calibration across multiple studios

Systems & Infrastructure

• Oversee the integration, maintenance, and operation of server-based broadcast systems and control room gear
• Monitor and maintain broadcast-related IT infrastructure, including networking, storage, and hardware platforms
• Troubleshoot IP connectivity issues across devices, control systems, and servers
• Support critical signal distribution systems including satellite downlinks, RF transmission, and IP-based streaming
• Support software-defined workflows and automation platforms used throughout the facility

Collaboration & Communication

• Serve as a liaison between engineering, operations, creative services, and corporate support teams
• Work closely with IT to ensure alignment in overlapping responsibilities including network configuration, server maintenance, and system alerting
• Escalate and resolve technical issues swiftly to avoid impact on live production and distribution

Required Experience & Skills

• Proven leadership experience in a broadcast engineering or maintenance department, ideally in a major market or national network environment
• Strong working knowledge of HD/SDI/ASI standards, signal flow, IP routing, and broadcast networking
• Hands-on experience with broadcast robotics, LED displays, control room technology, and studio camera systems
• Experience working with server operating systems (Windows/Linux), RAID storage systems, and remote access tools
• Proficient in reading and interpreting AutoCAD and schematic diagrams
• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and electronic systems under pressure
• Familiarity with satellite systems and RF transmission paths is a strong plus
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal; ability to clearly explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Broadcast Technology, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered
• Minimum 5-7 years of experience in a maintenance engineering or broadcast systems role
• Minimum 2 years in a team leadership or supervisory role
• Experience with represented employees preferred (IBEW 1220)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, crawl under equipment, climb ladders, and perform hands-on work as needed
• Manual dexterity to operate tools and test equipment
• Must possess a valid driver's license and safe driving record

Location & Schedule

• Based at WGN-TV Studios, Chicago (approx. 7 miles from downtown)
• Occasional on-call availability for emergencies or off-hours maintenance
• Must be willing to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays

Why Join Us?

This is a rare opportunity to lead a technically sophisticated, collaborative team that supports both a top-five television market and a rapidly growing national cable news network. We offer competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the ability to grow within one of the country's largest media companies.

#LI-Onsite

Salary Range:

140K to 155K Annualized - commensurate with applicant's experience and skill level

Benefits: Our comprehensive benefits package includes, but not limited to, medical (with multiple plan options), dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) with company matching contributions, Paid Parental leave, life insurance and more.