ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Playout Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Montclair State University

vMix Operator

Montclair, NJ · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Operating a single-operator vMix production environment, this position directs and assembles pre ... Encode and deliver the finished program to the central playout hub by established daily deadline ...

Montclair State

vMix Operator

Montclair, NJ

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Operating a single-operator vMix production environment, this position directs and assembles pre ... Encode and deliver the finished program to the central playout hub by established daily deadline ...

Ball Arena

Master Control Operator

Centennial, CO · On-site

$19.23 - $22/hr

Master Control Operator Department: Master Control Business Unit: KSE Media/Altitude Location ... Troubleshoot techniques related to channel playout systems and procedures in order to rapidly and ...

Digital Remedy

Master Control Operator

Flint, MI · On-site

The role of Master Control Operator is responsible for operating the multi-channel and CBS/NBC ... Record, Ingest and Prepare content for playout. * Monitor equipment for performance / device ...

Digital Remedy

Master Control Operator

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

The role of Master Control Operator is responsible for operating the multi-channel and multi-brand ... Record, Ingest and Prepare content for playout. * Monitor equipment for performance / device ...

Digital Remedy

Master Control Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

The role of Master Control Operator is responsible for operating the multi-channel and multi-brand ... Record, Ingest and Prepare content for playout. * Monitor equipment for performance / device ...

Digital Remedy

Master Control Operator

El Paso, TX

The role of Master Control Operator is responsible for operating the multi-channel and multi-brand ... Record, Ingest and Prepare content for playout. * Monitor equipment for performance / device ...

Digital Remedy

Master Control Operator

Hunt Valley, MD · On-site

$18.50 - $19/hr

The role of Master Control Operator is responsible for operating the multi-channel and multi-brand ... Record, Ingest and Prepare content for playout. * Monitor equipment for performance / device ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPlayout Operator Jobs

Playout Operator information

See salary details

$10

$20

$29

How much do playout operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for playout operator in the United States is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a playout operator?

A Playout Operator is responsible for ensuring the seamless broadcasting of TV and online content by managing the transmission of pre-recorded and live programs. They monitor automated systems, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure all scheduled content plays correctly and on time. Their role requires attention to detail, quick decision-making, and familiarity with broadcast technology.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a playout operator?

To thrive as a Playout Operator, you should possess strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience in broadcast or media operations, often supported by relevant qualifications or degrees in media, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with broadcast playout automation systems, video servers, and software like Harris or Pebble Beach automation, as well as certifications such as SBE (Society of Broadcast Engineers), are commonly required. Excellent multitasking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help operators manage live broadcasts and collaborate with production teams under tight deadlines. These competencies ensure smooth and error-free transmission of television or radio content, which is critical for both broadcast quality and organizational reputation.

What does a playout operator do?

A typical shift for a Playout Operator involves monitoring and managing the on-air content, ensuring scheduled programs, commercials, and promotions are played out seamlessly. You are responsible for handling live cut-ins, troubleshooting technical issues in real time, and logging broadcast events accurately. The role may require working in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, or holidays, especially in 24/7 broadcast environments. You’ll frequently collaborate with engineering, production, and editorial teams to coordinate smooth transitions and resolve any issues that arise during your shift. This fast-paced environment is ideal for those who thrive under pressure and enjoy being part of a dynamic media operations team.

More about Playout Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Playout Operator jobs? Cities with the most Playout Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Playout Operator jobs? The most popular types of Playout Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Playout Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Playout Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Playout Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Playout Operator jobs are:
Playout Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Playout Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 63% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,738 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

vMix Operator

Montclair State University

Montclair, NJ • On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago

Montclair State University rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 614 rated colleges and universities

Job description

IMPORTANT APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • Upload Resume or Curriculum Vitae for automatic population of information to the application.
  • The contact information, work experience, and education listed on your Resume/CV will be parsed and input into your Montclair application.
  • Review information and double-check all fields containing information that the system parsed - the software is intelligent, but you need to verify that the data is accurate.
  • In the "My Experience" section, you will find a Resume/CV upload option where you can submit your cover letter and all other supporting documents.

Note: If you have an expansive CV, we recommend that you apply manually and only include the positions you have held in the last ten (10) years. You will then be able to attach your Resume/CV, as well as all other supporting documentation in the "My Experience" section of your application.
Job Description
SUMMARY:
Reporting to Senior Producer, the vMix Operator is the technical production engine for NJ PBS, responsible for the direction, assembly, and delivery of the daily video-based news segments, shows, and original programming. Operating a single-operator vMix production environment, this position directs and assembles pre-recorded and live content, executes graphics and audio, and delivers broadcast-ready program files to the central playout hub and PBS master control. This is not a traditional multi-position control room role - it requires a uniquely versatile operator equally fluent in technical production, editorial workflow, and digital distribution, who takes full ownership of on-air quality from first frame to final delivery. This on-site position is based at NJ PBS production facilities at Montclair State University.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Serve as sole technical director and operator for the daily Monday-Friday newscast, working within a pre-recorded, late-afternoon assembly workflow.
  • Build and manage show rundowns in coordination with the editorial team; ingest, log, and organize all story packages, reporter tracks, and anchor footage.
  • Assemble the complete newscast in vMix, executing graphics, lower thirds, full-screen elements, video playback, transitions, and audio mixing in a single-operator environment.
  • Ensure all segments meet broadcast quality standards for video levels, audio normalization (LKFS/R128), closed captioning integration, and format compliance.
  • Encode and deliver the finished program to the central playout hub by established daily deadline, using required file formats and delivery protocols.
  • Monitor and troubleshoot delivery pipelines; escalate technical failures immediately and maintain backup delivery procedures.
  • Assemble original NJ PBS programs, specials, and documentary content using the vMix environment.
  • Coordinate with producers and editors on post-production workflows, ensuring compatibility between editing systems and vMix playout.
  • Manage multi-source productions including remote contributors via NDI, IP video, or other streaming inputs.
  • Build and maintain vMix project templates for recurring show formats to ensure consistency and production efficiency.
  • Operate and manage the graphics workflow within vMix, including integration with character generator tools and external design assets.
  • Encode and distribute content for streaming platforms, social media, and the NJ PBS owned-and-operated digital hub.
  • Assist in the configuration and maintenance of live streaming workflows for breaking news, special events, and digital-first content.
  • Serve as the primary operator and day-to-day steward of the vMix production system; Work with engineering and IT dept to maintain software licensing, updates, and hardware performance.
  • Work with engineers to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues with cameras, audio systems, monitors, signal routing, and network infrastructure.
  • Collaborate with IT and engineering staff on systems maintenance, upgrades, and redundancy planning.
  • Document production workflows, technical configurations, and delivery specifications for organizational continuity.
  • Adhere to NJ PBS editorial standards and public media ethics guidelines.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Management retains the right to add or change job duties at any time.

QUALIFICATIONS:
REQUIRED:
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Broadcasting, Communications, Film/Video Production, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
  • Minimum three years of experience in broadcast television production, with demonstrated experience in a technical director or production operator role.
  • Hands-on proficiency with vMix software; ability to build and execute complex productions as a single operator.
  • Strong understanding of broadcast signal flow, video formats (HD/4K), audio standards (PCM, LKFS/R128), and delivery file specifications.
  • Experience with newscast production workflows, including rundown management, package ingest, and deadline-driven delivery.
  • Working knowledge of broadcast graphics systems; ability to operate and update graphics packages.
  • Familiarity with closed captioning integration and FCC compliance requirements.
  • Ability to work independently under deadline pressure with minimal supervision.

PREFERRED:
  • Experience with NDI-based IP video workflows and remote production.
  • Familiarity with PBS technical standards, delivery requirements, and affiliate operations.
  • Experience encoding and publishing content for OTT, streaming, and social platforms.
  • Background in public media, journalism, or news production environments.
  • Proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud (Premiere Pro, After Effects, Photoshop) or equivalent; video editing experience strongly preferred.
  • Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish.

Salary Range
$76,486.40-$84,131.83 Annual
The position may also be eligible for comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance. For further details, please visit: https://www.montclair.edu/human-resources/benefits/
Montclair State University considers factors such as, but not limited to, scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's relevant work experience, education, skills, and internal equity, when extending an offer.
Salary offers for internal employees who are part of a collective bargaining unit (CBU) and are applying to a position that is within a CBU will be determined in accordance with contractual provisions.
Department
NJ PBS
Position Type
Administrative
Contact Information:
For questions or concerns, please contact Human Resources' Workday Recruiting Support at 973-655-5000 (Option 2), or email talent@montclair.edu.
Inclusion Statement
Montclair State University values access and educational excellence. We are committed to an environment of diverse perspectives which ensures that graduates will be civically engaged, committed to democracy, and prepared to thrive as global citizens. We foster a community that promotes varied experiences and voices. We seek applicants who will contribute diverse ideas and perspectives and who value an environment that promotes educational growth and advancement for all.
EEO/AA Statement
Montclair State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution with a strong commitment to diversity.
Additional information can be found on the website at
www.montclair.edu/human-resources/about-us/eo-aa-and-diversity/
Title IX and 34 C.F.R. 106 Policy
Montclair State is required by Title IX and 34 C.F.R. 106 not to discriminate on the basis of sex or gender, and does not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in the operation of education programs and activities. The requirement to not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in the operation of education programs and activities extends to admission and employment. For further details, please visit: https://www.montclair.edu/human-resources/job-seekers/

What Montclair State University employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply