Radio Broadcast Technician II (OCB)

The incumbent serves as a Radio Broadcast Technician (Master Control/Broadcast Studio Operator) within the Office of Cuba Broadcasting (OCB), Technical Operations Division, Radio Technical Branch. The position supports Radio Martí broadcast operations by performing master control, studio, and transmission-related technical functions essential to continuous, high-quality radio broadcasting.

Radio Martí Master Control serves as the technical switching, routing, monitoring, and distribution hub for all incoming and outgoing radio programming. The incumbent performs operational duties involving live and recorded program switching, signal monitoring, transmitter control, and coordination of studio and remote broadcast operations in accordance with established broadcast standards, schedules, and technical parameters.

The incumbent is responsible for monitoring and remotely controlling Marathon medium-wave transmitters during periods when transmitter sites are not staffed, ensuring uninterrupted transmission of Radio Martí programming. The position requires the ability to support live studio production, remote broadcasts, and emergency or contingency operations as required.

MAJOR DUTIES

The Radio Broadcast Technician performs the following duties, which are essential to mission accomplishment:

1. Master Control and Studio Operations
   • Operates radio broadcast studio and master control equipment, including audio mixing consoles, digital recording, editing, playback, routing, and monitoring systems, in accordance with established broadcast standards and practices.
   • Works under the direction of producers during live broadcasts and may serve as line producer for the playback of recorded programming, adhering to predetermined broadcast schedules and making real-time timing adjustments as required.
   • Monitors outgoing and incoming audio signals to ensure technical quality and compliance with broadcast standards; takes corrective action as necessary to resolve audio, signal, or routing issues.
2. Transmission and Signal Monitoring
   • Monitors, controls, and adjusts Marathon medium-wave transmitters via remote control systems, ensuring transmitter operations remain within established technical parameters.
   • Monitors satellite receivers, transmitters, and associated transmission paths; performs corrective actions as required.
   • Maintains accurate written and electronic transmitter and operational logs in accordance with regulatory and agency requirements.
3. Remote and Field Broadcast Support
   • Establishes and coordinates audio circuits from field locations and remote broadcast sites using satellite, IP, ISDN, and other transmission technologies.
   • Coordinates with engineers, technicians, and production staff to ensure the highest possible quality of program material during live and recorded remote broadcasts.
   • Troubleshoots and resolves technical issues related to signal flow, routing, and connectivity during remote operations.
4. Technical Troubleshooting and System Support
   • Applies working knowledge of audio signal flow, routing, and broadcast infrastructure to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve equipment or system malfunctions.
   • Uses master control switches, routing switchers, patch panels, intercom systems, and monitoring tools to maintain continuous broadcast operations.
   • Implements temporary workarounds or alternate routing solutions during system outages or maintenance activities to minimize broadcast disruptions.
5. Editing and Production Support
   • Edits pre-recorded radio programming, including voice segments, music, and sound effects, using digital audio editing software and studio consoles.
   • Ensures edited content meets technical, timing, and quality standards prior to broadcast.
   • Provides live production studio support as required, including microphone setup, audio balancing, and real-time adjustments.
6. Cross-Platform and Ancillary Support
   • Augments TV Martí Master Control and TV Martí audio operations as assigned, providing technical support across platforms when operational needs require.
   • Performs other related technical and operational duties as assigned in support of OCB broadcasting missions.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

The position requires the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Ability to operate digital and analog broadcast, recording, and playback systems used in professional radio broadcasting environments.
• Working knowledge of audio editing software and computer operations, including file management related to digital recording, storage, and playback systems.
• Ability to operate and support audio codecs and transmission devices, including satellite, IP-based, and other digital transmission systems.
• Knowledge of basic broadcasting theory, signal flow, and technical standards applicable to radio broadcast operations.
• Ability to troubleshoot broadcast equipment and systems, identify root causes of technical issues, and implement corrective actions.
• Ability to monitor and adjust broadcast systems to ensure compliance with accepted broadcast quality and technical standards.
• Experience with master control operations, including routine use of routing switchers, patch panels, intercom systems, and monitoring equipment.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

The incumbent works under the general supervision of the Radio Technical Branch Supervisor or designee. Assignments are carried out in accordance with established policies, procedures, and broadcast schedules. The incumbent is expected to exercise independent judgment in responding to routine operational and technical issues.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

This position is a Personal Services Contractor (PSC) role and is not a federal civil service appointment. Employment is subject to successful completion of background and suitability requirements. The position may require shift work, nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency coverage as operational needs dictate.