09 July 2008 | Opportunities | Ernesto Aguilar

Free Speech Radio News, a half-hour daily news show, is searching for a qualified candidate to fill the Technical Producer position.  This position is 25 hours per week and is located at KPFA 94.1 FM in Berkeley, California.  The Tech Producer is responsible for assembling the final newscast.  This is a key role in the post-production process and the Tech Producer’s skill determines the quality and delivery of the daily newscast. The Tech Producer works independently, and closely with the Producers, Headlines Editor, Host and Reporters to meet broadcast quality requirements.  S/he has full and complete understanding of high-end radio production, and also has demonstrable working knowledge of PC-based digital audio editing systems and audio recording equipment.  The successful candidate must be able to calmly and effectively problem solve under extreme deadline pressure.

Responsibilities include:

1-Assures professional quality productions and smooth execution of projects by planning, organizing, instructing reporters and staff, implementing proper audio techniques, coordinating and scheduling pre-production, production and post-production with appropriate personnel.

2-Downloads incoming audio from FSRN’s upload page.  Monitors audio quality and communicates with Producers and Reporters of sound that does not meet broadcast quality standards.

3-Continually works with reporters, improving their audio recording techniques and also suggests equipment upgrades.  Also, troubleshoots various audio-editing, computer and ftp setups over the phone and/or via email.

4-Assembles/edits incoming news segments.  Records phoners, 2-ways and voice overs when needed.  Also, actively listens to content, and reports any inacuracies to the producers and reporters for corrections.

5-Works efficiently and with speed and is capable of recording/assembling multiple segments daily and under time constraints. Maintains and adheres to predetermined production constraints, deadlines and quality standards.

6-Performs minor maintenance, repair and trouble-shooting on audio production equipment and audio digital editing equipment.  Also, communicates with Web Host regarding technical problems related to FSRN’s website and audio upload page.

7-Assembles the daily newscast and prepares it for the 1 pm PST national broadcast.  Monitors the webstream and the 1:45, 2:30, 3:00 and 3:30 pm PST Satellite feeds.

8-Communicates with producers on the status of incoming news segments and the status of the show.  Producers are located mainly in LA, so communication is via phone, email or online chat.

9-Updates www.fsrn.org daily, using ftp and Drupal content management system.  Uploads the newscast audio and leads text for affiliate stations and online listeners.  Communicates with affiliates on how to subscribe to RSS feed, and also troubleshoots any technical issue via phone or email.

10-Maintains a back-up archive of all finished FSRN newscasts on an external hard drive, clears out old files and prepares evergreen segments for future use.

11-Recruits and trains possible fill-in Tech Producers.  Also, writes-up/re-writes guidelines for recording, mixing, uploading and other technical material when filing news stories for FSRN.

Qualifications for the position include:

1-Ability to multi-task, organize and meet scheduled deadlines in a fast paced news environment.  Capable of prioritizing work assignments in a deadline oriented environment.

2-Good communication skills and works well in a team.  Also, Ability to continuously speak, hear, and respond to detailed or important information and instruction.

3-Experience with PC-based digital audio editing systems, especially Soundforge.  Also, proficiency in Drupal (CMS), mysql, wikis, ssh, and other web tools needed to expand FSRN’s online presence, manage data, and provide encryption for online donations.

4-Ability to operate audio equipment used for productions.

5-Ability to work under deadline and extreme stress.  Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work under pressure and duress to complete work assignments under time and budget constraints and otherwise adverse conditions encountered during routine productions.

6-Ability to frequently use repetitive motions of the wrist, hands and/or fingers.

7-Commitment to the FSRN newscast and progressive news.  Also, the desire to help govern the diverse worker run collective consisting of 9 staff members and about 150 reporters.  Must maintain a positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in a manner that works well with co-workers, reporters, affiliates and listeners.

8-Phone and general computer skills and ability to learn new computer programs.

desired qualities:

*2 years broadcast newsroom production experience.

*knowledge of languages other than English

Those interested in applying for the position should submit the following:

1) A cover letter describing the applicant’s interest in the position that will highlight their qualifications

2) A resume

3) Three references

Diversity is an important consideration in hiring at Free Speech Radio News.

Deadline for applications is July 17, 2008.  There will also be a brief audio editing test during the week of interviews, must have access to audio editing software or be available to take the test at our Berkeley location.  The position would begin with a week of training starting on or about August 4th, 2008. Please send a resume, cover letter and references to jobs@fsrn.org.

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