Production Engineer

Production Engineer Who We Are We are a global community that is driven by the creative spirit of Los Angeles. Through an inspiring mix of music, news, and culture, we bring joy and connection – online, in-person and on the radio. Always excellent, accessible, and often unexpected, we are a constant source of fuel for the imagination, education and good vibes. At least, that is what our members tell us. As NPR’s flagship member station in Southern California for more than 30 years and a community service of Santa Monica College, KCRW is the next generation of public media. How You’ll Make an ImpactKCRW's production team is seeking a talented recording and audio engineer, working at the heart of the station's day-to-day output and longer term special projects. Our new Production Engineer will work on both live-to-air and pre-recorded material for broadcast and podcast. Their responsibilities include recording, editing and mixing daily, weekly and monthly programming, meeting time-sensitive deadlines. They must also possess a strong music recording background with demonstrated use of large format consoles operating in a front of house or studio capacity. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills, the ability to work solo or with a team, be highly self-motivated, and have notable years of studio experience, either broadcast or recording workplaces. This is a full-time, non-exempt position reporting to the Production Operations Manager. This position is in the SAG-AFTRA Bargaining Unit. What You’ll DoLive In-Studio Recording Sessions Serve as an assistant or lead engineer for live and pre-recorded in-studio music sessions and events. Mix live bands for stereo broadcast and multitrack recording. Edit music performances and interviews in post-production for broadcast and digital distribution. Talk Programming Record, mix, and edit audio for: Broadcast and podcast programming News and music segments Commentaries and special features Promos for KCRW programs Other audio projects as assigned Engineer live radio broadcast productions as needed Operate the broadcast console, manage audio sources, and execute live elements to ensure smooth, accurate on-air programming. Coordinate with hosts, producers, and board operators to manage live segments, transitions, and technical needs during broadcasts. Additional Engineering Responsibilities, including but not limited to: Coordinate technical needs for and execution of off-site recordings/broadcasts. Prepare, deliver, and properly label audio assets for broadcast, podcasts, video, and other distribution platforms. Set up, test, and maintain studio equipment to support daily recording and production needs. Lead and support special projects from planning through completion. Troubleshoot technical issues, including during live broadcasts and other time-sensitive situations. Provide guidance and technical assistance to staff members on hardware/software and production workflows. Here’s What You’ll BringExperience working in a fast-paced studio or production environment. Experience recording and mixing music. Undergraduate degree in audio engineering, recording, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience. Proficiency with digital audio workstations, Pro Tools preferred. Experience operating broadcast consoles or supporting live production. Strong understanding of audio signal flow and troubleshooting. Ability to work accurately under tight deadlines. Flexibility to work occasional evenings, weekends, or adjusted schedules to accommodate live broadcasts and special events. A passion for KCRW’s programming and an interest in NPR news, current affairs, music, and the arts. Preferred SkillsStrong attention to detail and the ability to balance individual tasks with broader project goals. Strong organizational, communication, creative, and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with Windows and macOS operating systems. Experience with broadcast automation systems, particularly RCS Zetta or similar platforms. Knowledge of FCC standards and obligations, including EAS requirements Interest in new audio technologies and ways to improve production workflows. What We Offer The applicable annual salary range for this position is $75,000 - $80,000 Hybrid work schedule for select positions Sick leave award Vacation leave accrual Paid holidays Health insurance (including medical, dental, vision, FSA, life and AD&D) eligibility 403(b) with company match Passionate office environment surrounded by an incredible community of curious and talented colleagues KCRW is a qualifying employer under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program - click here to determine your eligibility This job is represented by SAG-AFTRA, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, which ensures that performers receive fair wages, working conditions, and benefits. Membership provides valuable support and resources for those in the industry. KCRW employees covered by the 2022-2026 SAG-AFTRA/KCRW contract need to follow the union security article of the contract, become a full voting member or fee-paying non-member There are annual base dues plus working dues of 1.575% of the previous calendar year's earnings The broadcast initiation fee specific to KCRW is $720 for full time and $360 for part time and there are payment plans Upon hire, SAG-AFTRA will be in contact with all necessary information Candidates can discuss any union specific questions with a shop steward upon hire KCRW aims to be representative of Southern California, and candidates with traditionally underrepresented backgrounds and perspectives are encouraged to apply. KCRW is an equal opportunity employer and actively recruits to promote diversity in our workforce. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, status as a parent, national origin, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit based factors.