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Master Control Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hearst

Production Assistant

Salinas, CA · On-site

$43K - $48K/yr

Operational knowledge and experience with master control activities and functions a plus. * Bilingual a Plus * Aptitude for operating electronic equipment for broadcast and production requirements.

Hearst

Production Assistant

Salinas, CA

$43K - $48K/yr

Operational knowledge and experience with master control activities and functions a plus. * Bilingual a Plus * Aptitude for operating electronic equipment for broadcast and production requirements.

Hearst Television

Production Assistant

Salinas, CA · On-site

$43K - $48K/yr

Operational knowledge and experience with master control activities and functions a plus. * Bilingual a Plus * Aptitude for operating electronic equipment for broadcast and production requirements.

Hearst

Production Assistant

Salinas, CA

$43K - $48K/yr

Operational knowledge and experience with master control activities and functions a plus. * Bilingual a Plus * Aptitude for operating electronic equipment for broadcast and production requirements.

Anduril Industries

Teleop Operator

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Excellent physical coordination, spatial awareness, and fine motor control * Ability to stand for ... Quick learner - can master new physical task sequences rapidly * Strong attention to detail and ...

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Master Control Operator information

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$13

$21

$30

How much do master control operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for master control operator in California is $21.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Master Control Operator?

A master control operator monitors and records television broadcasts to ensure quality and compliance with government regulations. As a master control operator, your duties include observing and recording satellite, cable, or live on-air programs, and using technology to record, dub, or make other adjustments to the broadcasts. To pursue a career as a master control operator, you need at least a high school diploma or GED certificate and relevant work experience. Some employers prefer candidates with a college degree in communications, journalism, or a related field and technical skills training. Additional qualifications include attention to detail, technical knowledge to operate broadcast equipment and troubleshoot malfunctions, and the ability to archive and organize large amounts of media.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Master Control Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Master Control Operator, you need a solid understanding of broadcast operations, signal flow, and video/audio quality control, often supported by a degree in communications or related experience in broadcasting. Familiarity with automation systems, broadcast consoles, and scheduling software is typically required, along with relevant certifications like SBE (Society of Broadcast Engineers) credentials. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work calmly under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure seamless transmission, regulatory compliance, and quick resolution of technical issues in live broadcast environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Master Control Operators and how can they be addressed?

Master Control Operators often encounter challenges such as managing multiple live feeds, troubleshooting technical issues under tight deadlines, and maintaining broadcast quality during unexpected disruptions. Staying organized, keeping calm under pressure, and having a strong understanding of broadcast equipment are crucial for success. Effective communication with engineering teams and other departments also helps quickly resolve problems and minimize on-air interruptions.

What is the difference between Master Control Operator vs Broadcast Technician?

AspectMaster Control OperatorBroadcast Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma; certifications varyHigh school diploma; technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentTV/radio stations, cable networks, broadcasting facilitiesBroadcast stations, production companies, technical support
Job FocusMonitoring and controlling live broadcasts, ensuring signal qualityInstalling, maintaining, repairing broadcast equipment

While both roles support broadcasting operations, the Master Control Operator primarily manages live broadcasts and signal quality, whereas the Broadcast Technician focuses on technical maintenance and equipment repair. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the broadcasting industry.

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What cities in California are hiring for Master Control Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Master Control Operator job openings:
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Master Control Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Master Control Operator job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,333 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Production Assistant

Production Assistant

Hearst

Salinas, CA • On-site

$43K - $48K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Hearst rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 64 rated media

Job description

Job Description
KSBW 8 (NBC) / Central Coast ABC / Estrella TV Costa Central, part of Hearst Television, is looking for a Production Assistant, who is self-motivated, detail oriented, organized multi-tasking team player. They will be responsible for operating robotic cameras, teleprompter and video equipment as related to live broadcasts and post-production. Candidate will also be responsible for monitoring multiple air channels, acquiring, ingesting, and preparing content, executing playlists, maintaining regulatory compliance, assuring quality control of on-air product, and documenting transmission events. This position involves ingesting commercials and programs, timing them and making sure they all play on air properly. The candidate will generally work 40 hours per week and must be available for morning and weekend shifts. This role reports to the Operations Manager.
Responsibilities:
  • Floor directing, camera/studio operator, and digital editing
  • Coordinate live and taped programming for broadcast
  • Maintain professional appearance of studio/sets
  • Maintaining on air operation to include running commercials, network, and local programming
  • Monitors multiple channels to ensure regulatory compliance and quality signals
  • Operate Harris Automation equipment
  • Follow FCC monitoring and EAS procedures
  • Observing transmitters and taking readings
  • Executes, edits, updates, and appends playlists
  • Report's equipment issues and transmission discrepancies
  • In person attendance required

Requirements:
  • Must have computer and software experience
  • Prior exposure to television station operations and newscast production a plus.
  • Hearst Television is a proud supporter of military veterans. Related military training and experience will be considered.
  • Attention to details is imperative and able to multi-task
  • Operational knowledge and experience with master control activities and functions a plus.
  • Bilingual a Plus
  • Aptitude for operating electronic equipment for broadcast and production requirements.

Values in Action
At Hearst Television we tell stories every day. Stories about people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and identities. That's why, behind the scenes, we believe in being an organization that fosters collaboration and open communication, ensuring that the content we create is authentic, accurate, and connected to the communities we serve.
Benefits
Hearst's benefit programs are modern, flexible and designed to focus on you. As a Hearst employee, you and your spouse or partner or dependents would have access to the following benefits.
  • Medical | Dental | Vision
  • 401(k) matching
  • Emotional Wellness Support
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • LGBTQ+ Health Services
  • Additional benefits to meet you and your family's needs

The estimated base salary range for this role is between $43,000 and $48,000. The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as transferable skills, work experience, business needs, market demands and conditions, including geographic location where the work will be performed, and other factors permitted by law. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.
About Us
Hearst Television (HTV) owns and/or operates 35 television and two radio stations serving 27 media markets across 39 states reaching over 22 million U.S. television households. HTV is recognized as one of the industry's premier broadcasting companies and has been honored with numerous awards for distinguished journalism, industry innovation, and community service.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. we do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, creed, national, origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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