Entry Level Studio Audio Engineer Jobs in Minnesota

Position Summary:

The position’s primary focus and responsibility is the production of live broadcasts, interview recordings, post-production, and events for MPR|APMG; working primarily in support of MPR News.

The Audio Visual Specialist will bring experience in both audio and video production to help produce compelling content for our audiences.

This position will work within the Technology & Operations division and will collaborate with colleagues across our organization as well as external partners to maintain excellent technical quality of MPR/APM broadcasts, audio & video recordings, podcasts, and events.

Expected Compensation Range: Full-Time $33-$35 per hr.

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.

Position Responsibility:

• Perform live audio mixing: on-air board operations, studio mixing of both talk and music, and sound reinforcement.
• Mix and process audio and video for multi-channel distribution.
• Recording and mixing of talk and music-based audio content.
• Maintain advanced knowledge and operational skill in digital audio production using in-house software-editing platforms (currently utilized systems include Dalet and Pro Tools) as well as mixing consoles (currently utilized systems include Axia, Midas, and Yamaha digital consoles.)
• Responsible for responding in a timely and professional manner to internal and external requests for audio files, technical assistance, and planning details.
• Collaborate closely with show hosts, directors, and producers to accommodate an efficient and creative broadcast/production environment. 
• Establishes and maintains the highest standards of audio and video production.
• Follows standard operating procedures and workflows to provide consistent production quality.
• Works with other departments and/or external partners to remain up to date on all technical and content changes and modifications.
• Test, connect, and monitor codecs and any other equipment necessary for live broadcasts (currently utilized systems include Comrex Access, LiveU, Opal, Riverside, Teams, and more.)

• Operate digital audio recording devices and interfaces for both in-house and field recording.
• Operate installed studio cameras for capturing and/or live-streaming video.
• Operate installed studio lighting and work to achieve professional looking video using available set pieces, camera/subject placement, and framing principles.
• Provide excellent customer service to both internal colleagues and external constituents.
• Operate audio/visual systems for events and meetings

• Provide back-up for other members of the Media Operations team and assist on various department activities as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or three or more years experience as an audio engineer and/or videographer.
• One or more years experience doing audio and/or video production work
• Possess a thorough knowledge and experience of field recording, sound reinforcement, studio recording, post-production, and “live” broadcast procedures.  
• Knowledge and experience with digital audio technologies and audio editing software.
• Computer literate with experience using PC and Mac platforms.

Required Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:

• Planning, communications, and teamwork skills.
• Problem-solving and technical troubleshooting 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.

• Demonstrated skills with live audio mixing and console operation for both broadcasts and events.

• Ability to maintain composure and perform well under pressure. 
• Demonstrated ability to support and troubleshoot computer hardware and software.

• Skilled with audio processing tools and plug-ins including equalizers, compressors, limiters, de-esser's, reverb, and other digital effects used for both live mixing and post-production.

• Knowledge and proficiency with audio software for multi-track recording, mixing, and editing.
• Ability to multi-task daily.
• Excellent customer service skills.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Experience in a broadcasting or media environment.
• 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.
• Fluency with Pro Tools.
• Knowledge of loudness standards (LUFS) for content delivery to different platforms.

• Audio-over-IP certification and/or training (e.g. Dante Certification)
• 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.
• Experience with videography and camera operation.
• 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.

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.
• Position will at times require weekend, evening, and holiday work.
• Physical Demands: 
• Required to move about in an office environment
• Required to 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.  
• Required to 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 encourage members of diverse groups to apply.