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Master Control Operator Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Hearst

Master Control Operator

Lancaster, PA

WGAL-TV, the Hearst Television NBC affiliate located in the Harrisburg-Lancaster-Lebanon-York, PA market has an opening for a Master Control Operator. You will oversee the equipment that provides the ...

Fox

Per Diem Technician

Philadelphia, PA

$48.53/hr

Roles may include, technical director, audio board operator, floor direction, technical operations coordinator, master control operator, or program prep/ingest operator. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

FOX News Network, LLC

Per Diem Technician

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$18.25 - $23/hr

Roles may include, technical director, audio board operator, floor direction, technical operations coordinator, master control operator, or program prep/ingest operator. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

WJBK Fox 2

Per Diem Technician

Philadelphia, PA

$48.53/hr

Roles may include, technical director, audio board operator, floor direction, technical operations coordinator, master control operator, or program prep/ingest operator. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

UPerio USA, LLC

Tower Crane Operator

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Summary The Tower Crane Operator controls a fixed or traveling tower crane to lift, move and ... the master control circuit. * Report any needed adjustments or repairs promptly to a designated ...

iHeartMedia

Board Operator

Harrisburg, PA

What We Need: We're seeking an experienced Part-Time Board Operator to provide programming and ... master control room * Support off-air commercial production, dubbing music to hard disk and ...

iHeartMedia, Inc.

Board Operator

Harrisburg, PA · On-site

What We Need: We're seeking an experienced Part-Time Board Operator to provide programming and ... master control room * Support off-air commercial production, dubbing music to hard disk and ...

iHeartMedia

Board Operator (Sports)

Pittsburgh, PA

What We Need: We're seeking a skilled Board Operator to provide programming and control board ... master control room * Support off-air commercial production, dubbing music to hard disk and ...

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All JobsMaster Control Operator JobsMaster Control Operator Jobs in Pennsylvania

Master Control Operator information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$13

$21

$31

How much do master control operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for master control operator in Pennsylvania is $21.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $24.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Master Control Operator?

A Master Control Operator is a broadcast professional responsible for ensuring that television or radio programming is aired correctly and on schedule. They monitor the transmission of content, troubleshoot technical issues, and manage the switching of live and pre-recorded segments. This role is crucial in maintaining broadcast quality, adhering to schedules, and complying with regulatory requirements. Master Control Operators also log broadcasts and may perform basic equipment maintenance. Their work is essential for the smooth operation of television and radio stations.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Master Control Operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, extensive experience, or ownership of a business, rather than entry- or mid-level positions like Master Control Operator. Salary levels vary widely based on industry, location, and individual qualifications.

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 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 kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

Master Control Operators typically do not earn $150,000 annually; higher salaries in media often come from roles such as senior broadcast engineers, media directors, or executive producers, especially in large organizations. These positions require advanced technical skills, experience, and sometimes management responsibilities. Salaries above $150,000 are more common in senior or specialized roles within media companies or networks.

Is being a master control operator hard?

Master control operators are responsible for monitoring and managing broadcast signals, which requires attention to detail, technical skills, and the ability to handle live situations. The job can be demanding due to irregular hours, the need for quick problem-solving, and familiarity with broadcast equipment and automation systems.

What do master control operators do?

Master control operators are responsible for monitoring and managing the broadcast of television or radio programs, ensuring that content airs smoothly and on schedule. They operate equipment such as video switchers, servers, and automation systems, and often work overnight or irregular hours to maintain continuous broadcast operations.

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.

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.
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Master Control Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Master Control Operator job openings in Pennsylvania as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,029 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
Master Control Operator

Master Control Operator

Hearst

Lancaster, PA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 hours ago

Hearst rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 75 rated media

Job description

WGAL-TV, the Hearst Television NBC affiliate located in the Harrisburg-Lancaster-Lebanon-York, PA market has an opening for a Master Control Operator. You will oversee the equipment that provides the content of our broadcast on-air program streams. You will monitor multiple air channels, prepare content, build playlists, maintain regulatory compliance, assuring quality control of on-air products, and documenting transmission events. You will ingest commercials and programs, timing them and making sure they all play on air properly. You will report to the Chief Engineer.

Responsibilities

  • Coordinate live and recorded programming for broadcast
  • Maintain on air operation to include running commercials, network and local programming
  • Monitor multiple channels to ensure regulatory compliance and signal integrity
  • Operate broadcast automation equipment
  • Follow FCC monitoring and EAS procedures
  • Observe transmitters and take readings
  • Maintain program and transmitter logs
  • Edit and append playlists
  • Acquire content from distributors and content delivery systems
  • Report on equipment issues and transmission discrepancies
  • Move and handle props and sets during production
  • Lighting and script preparation for newscasts
  • Flexibility to adapt to a schedule, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on organizational needs, special events, or unforeseen circumstances as required
  • Maintain appearance of studios including cleaning of set and floors

Requirements

  • 1+ years of computer, email, software and web applications
  • Prior exposure to television station operations and newscast production
  • Work in a collaborative environment and independently
  • Experience with master control activities and tasks preferred; training will be offered for qualified candidates
  • Knowledge of graphics systems for on-air branding and messaging
  • Can handle stresses and pressures of time-sensitive newscast production
  • Higher education in technology, SBE or related military experience will be considered
  • Related military experience will be considered
  • In-person attendance is required

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 your and your family's needs
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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