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Master Control Operator Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Cymertek

Key Access Control Analyst

Tysons, VA · On-site

... operating environment. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with a strong ... Some contracts give 2 years experience credit for a Master's Degree. We will work with you to find ...

Cymertek

Key Access Control Analyst

Reston, VA · On-site

... operating environment. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with a strong ... Some contracts give 2 years experience credit for a Master's Degree. We will work with you to find ...

Cymertek

Key Access Control Analyst

Chantilly, VA · On-site

... operating environment. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with a strong ... Some contracts give 2 years experience credit for a Master's Degree. We will work with you to find ...

WSSC Water

Sr. Laboratory QA/QC Auditor

Laurel, MD · On-site

Writes, reviews, and revises laboratory internal operating procedures/standard operating procedures ... master logbook, and analytical worksheets * Maintains inventory and control of internal and ...

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Master Control Operator information

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$15

$24

$34

How much do master control operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for master control operator in Washington, DC is $24.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $27.12 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 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.

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.
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Master Control Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Master Control Operator job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,687 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Technician, Broadcast Operations

Sirius XM Radio

Washington, DC

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities

Who We Are:

SiriusXM and its brands (Pandora, SiriusXM Media, AdsWizz, Simplecast, and SiriusXM Connect) are leading a new era of audio entertainment and services by delivering the most compelling subscription and ad-supported audio entertainment experience for listeners -- in the car, at home, and anywhere on the go with connected devices. Our vision is to shape the future of audio, where everyone can be effortlessly connected to the voices, stories and music they love wherever they are. This is the place where a diverse group of emerging talent and legends alike come to share authentic and purposeful songs, stories, sounds and insights through some of the best programming and technology in the world. Our critically-acclaimed, industry-leading audio entertainment encompasses music, sports, comedy, news, talk, live events, and podcasting. No matter their individual role, each of our employees plays a vital part in bringing SiriusXM's vision to life every day.

SiriusXM is the leading audio entertainment company in North America, and the premier programmer and platform for subscription and digital advertising-supported audio products. SiriusXM's platforms collectively reach approximately 150 million listeners, the largest digital audio audience across paid and free tiers in North America, and deliver music, sports, talk, news, comedy, entertainment and podcasts. Pandora, a subsidiary of SiriusXM, is the largest ad-supported audio entertainment streaming service in the U.S. SiriusXM's subsidiaries Simplecast and AdsWizz make it a leader in podcast hosting, production, distribution, analytics and monetization. The Company's advertising sales organization, which operates as SiriusXM Media, leverages its scale, cross-platform sales organization and ad tech capabilities to deliver results for audio creators and advertisers. SiriusXM, through SiriusXM Canada Holdings, Inc., also offers satellite radio and audio entertainment in Canada. In addition to its audio entertainment businesses, SiriusXM offers connected vehicle services to automakers.

How you'll make an impact:

You will be responsible for the operation and technical management of the systems in the Broadcast Operations Center which is a 24/7, 365 Broadcast Environment.

What you'll do:

  • Responsibilities include monitoring the quality of our service and addressing problems in real time across SiriusXM's satellite and streaming channels. You are responsible for control of systems which produce content for the broadcast channels including the playout, automation, scheduling, routing systems and audio file storage.
  • Monitor the quality of our service and address problems in real time across SiriusXM's satellite and streaming channels by performing first-line triage, documenting observations, and escalating as needed.
  • Operate and monitor systems that produce content for the broadcast channels, including playout, automation, scheduling, routing systems, and audio file storage, using standard operating procedures.
  • Respond to technical alarms from the various systems in the Broadcast Operations Center in real time and support the needs of channel programmers (talent and producers) by following runbooks and routing issues to the appropriate support teams.
  • Interface with the Broadcast Control Center Shift Supervisors, the Broadcast Maintenance technical staff, Programming, and Media Engineering to coordinate handoffs and ensure timely resolution.
  • Complete Incident Management tickets for Shift Supervisor review and resolution.
  • Perform routine duties and tasks related to day-to-day operations.
  • This role is an individual contributor position and is not expected to handle supervisory responsibilities.

What you'll need:

  • Bachelor's degree (BS/BA) or equivalent education and professional experience preferred.
  • 0-2 years' experience in broadcast operations is desired.
  • Flexibility to work day, evening, and weekend shifts as required.
  • Proficiency with digital audio editing, broadcast automation, digital routing, and quality control workflows.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across all levels of staff.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently while following detailed instructions and standard procedures as well as part of a team.
  • Strong organizational skills and keen attention to detail.
  • Professional demeanor in both in-person and phone interactions.
  • Commitment to customer service and "internal client" support principles.
  • Capable of managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Willingness to take initiative and follow through with shift supervisor guidance.
  • Previous master control experience is a plus.
  • Creative writing ability is beneficial.
  • Strong time management skills, with the ability to prioritize, multi-task, and adapt to shifting deadlines.
  • Solid spelling, grammar, proofreading, and editing abilities.
  • Broadcast operations monitoring
  • Incident triage & documentation
  • Broadcast automation / routing fundamentals
  • Digital audio editing & QC workflows
  • Communication & collaboration
  • Must have legal right to work in the U.S.

At SiriusXM, we carefully consider a wide range of factors when determining compensation, including your background and experience. These considerations can cause your compensation to vary. We expect the base salary for this position to be in the range of $64,800 to $99,900 and will depend on your skills, qualifications, and experience. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary short-term and long-term incentives. We encourage all interested candidates to apply.

Our goal at SiriusXM is to provide and maintain a work environment that fosters mutual respect, professionalism and cooperation. SiriusXM is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, alienage or citizenship status, age, disability or handicap, sex, gender identity, marital status, familial status, veteran status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. 

The requirements and duties described above may be modified or waived by the Company in its sole discretion without notice.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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