Audio Engineer - On-Call

Position Summary:

The on-call position’s primary focus and responsibility is the production of live broadcasts, podcast production, recordings, and events for APM|MPR. 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).

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

Location: On-Site

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: Open until filled.

Your role:

As an on-call Audio Engineer you’ll play a key role in creating high-quality‑quality live broadcasts, recordings, and podcasts that reach national audiences. You’ll collaborate with hosts, producers, and technical teams across APM|MPR to deliver exceptional content to audiences.

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). We welcome candidates with a variety of audio backgrounds, including studio, broadcast, live sound, and podcast production.

Position Responsibilities:

Live Broadcast Mixing

• 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.

Audio Mixing & Production

• Mix stories, podcasts, and interviews under quick deadlines
• Maintain advanced knowledge and operational skill in digital audio production using in-house software-editing platforms (currently utilized systems include Dalet, Pro Tools, and Adobe Audition) as well as mixing consoles (currently utilized systems include Axia, Midas, and Yamaha digital consoles.)
• Test, connect, and monitor codecs and 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.

Collaboration & Communication

• Respond in a timely and professional manner to internal and external requests for production, audio files, technical assistance, and planning details.
• Collaborate closely with show hosts, directors, and producers to accommodate an efficient and creative broadcast/production environment. 
• Provide excellent customer service to both internal colleagues and external constituents.

Quality, Standards, & Workflow

• Establish and maintain high 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 technical and content changes and modifications.

Operational Support

• 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 equivalent experience, such as:
  • 3 years in audio engineering, live sound, studio production, or related audio fields, or
  • A strong demonstrated portfolio through professional, freelance, or community work
• 1 year of audio and/or video production experience

Required Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:

Audio Engineering & Production Skills

• Knowledgeable and skilled in operating signal processing equipment and digital plug-ins including equalizers, compressors, limiters, de-essers, reverb, and other digital effects.
• Fluency in digital audio workstations, Pro Tools or Adobe Audition experience preferred.
• Problem-solving and technical troubleshooting skills.
• Demonstrated ability to support and troubleshoot computer hardware and software.
• Demonstrated skills operating and knowledge of audio consoles, microphones, mic pre-amps, patch bays / routers, multi-track recorders, AD/DA converters, and related audio equipment.

Professional Skills

• Planning, communications, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships to achieve common goals.
• Able to perform work independently or in a team environment.

• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate, both written and orally.
• Ability to maintain composure and perform well under pressure. 
• 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.  This includes applications and equipment such as 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.
• Working knowledge of audio/visual equipment including projectors, video switchers, and other presentation technology.
• Ability to think about content editing from the perspective of the audience to help shape a story or piece with creative editing and production techniques.
• Experience and interest in video editing

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 and will, at times, require weekend, evening, and holiday work.
• Physical Demands: 

• Move about in an office environment
• 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.  
• Lift audio and video equipment up to 70 lbs.

• Working Conditions: 

• Moderate noise level
• Occasional exposure to prevalent weather conditions

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 wks./per year, pro-rated, based on hours worked), Sick time (12 days, pro-rated, 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.

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.

Salary : $36 - $38