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Television Master Control Operator Jobs in California

Staffingine LLC

Operator

Burbank, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.50/hr

Operator Job Location: Burbank, CA Job Type: Contract * This role is mainly responsible for live ... At least one year of experience in live television, master control, or sports media. * A basic ...

Tennis Channel

Digital Network Operator

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $23.25/hr

... Master Control and Transmission • Strong understanding of digital delivery platforms and ... Smart TV's Preferred : • 5 years of experience in broadcast television is a plus • ...

Hearst Television

Production Assistant

Salinas, CA · On-site

$43K - $48K/yr

... 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 ...

FOX News Network, LLC

Per Diem Technician

Oakland, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

OVERVIEW OF THE COMPANY Fox TV Stations FOX Television Stations owns and operates 29 full power ... Operating in Master Control, the Technical Operations Center, and Ingest. Master Control automation ...

KTVU Fox 2

Per Diem Technician

Oakland, CA

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

OVERVIEW OF THE COMPANY Fox TV Stations FOX Television Stations owns and operates 29 full power ... Operating in Master Control, the Technical Operations Center, and Ingest. Master Control automation ...

Fox

Per Diem Technician

Oakland, CA

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

OVERVIEW OF THE COMPANY Fox TV Stations FOX Television Stations owns and operates 29 full power ... Operating in Master Control, the Technical Operations Center, and Ingest. Master Control automation ...

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Television Master Control Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do television master control operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for television 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a television master control operator?

To thrive as a Television Master Control Operator, you need a solid understanding of broadcast operations, signal flow, and FCC regulations, often supported by a degree or certificate in broadcast technology or a related field. Familiarity with automation systems, video servers, waveform monitors, and playout software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are critical to ensure seamless broadcasting, regulatory compliance, and quick resolution of technical issues during live programming.

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

AspectTelevision Master Control OperatorBroadcast Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles may require technical certificationsHigh school diploma; technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentBroadcast control rooms, TV stations, or networksStudio facilities, transmission sites, or technical support centers
Employer & IndustryTelevision stations, networks, cable providersBroadcast companies, TV stations, media organizations
Job FocusMonitoring and controlling live and pre-recorded broadcastsMaintaining and repairing broadcast equipment, technical troubleshooting

While both roles support broadcast operations, Television Master Control Operators primarily monitor and control live broadcasts, ensuring smooth transmission. Broadcast Technicians focus more on maintaining and repairing equipment to support broadcast quality. Both roles require technical skills and work in similar environments, but their daily responsibilities differ.

What are some common challenges faced by television master control operators, and how can they be managed?

Television Master Control Operators often encounter challenges such as managing multiple live feeds, troubleshooting technical issues under tight deadlines, and ensuring seamless transitions between programs and commercials. Staying calm under pressure, having strong attention to detail, and maintaining clear communication with production and engineering teams are essential for handling these situations effectively. Regular training on new broadcast technologies and developing quick problem-solving skills can also help operators stay ahead of industry changes and minimize on-air disruptions.

What is a television master control operator?

Television Master Control Operators are responsible for overseeing the final output of programming for broadcast television stations. They monitor and control the transmission of television signals, ensuring that scheduled programs, commercials, and other content air correctly and on time. Their duties include operating broadcasting equipment, troubleshooting technical issues, maintaining broadcast logs, and adhering to regulatory standards. Master Control Operators play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth, error-free broadcast for viewers.

What does a television master control operator do?

A television master control operator manages the broadcast of television programs, ensuring that video and audio signals are transmitted correctly and on schedule. They monitor equipment, switch between sources, troubleshoot technical issues, and maintain broadcast quality during live or pre-recorded transmissions.
What are popular job titles related to Television Master Control Operator jobs in California? For Television Master Control Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Television Master Control Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Television Master Control Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Television Master Control Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Television Master Control Operator job openings:
Television Master Control Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Television Master Control Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,333 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Master Control Operator / Newscast Director

Hearst Television

Salinas, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description


KSBW 8 (NBC) / Central Coast ABC / Estrella TV Costa Central, part of Hearst Television, has an opening for a Master Control Operator / Newscast Director. This hybrid position is ideal for a technically minded broadcast professional who enjoys working in a fast-paced, live television environment.
The primary focus of this role is Master Control Operations, while also developing the skills necessary to direct live newscasts. Training will be provided to qualified candidates interested in expanding their production and directing skills.
The successful candidate will monitor multiple broadcast channels, execute automation playlists, maintain FCC compliance, troubleshoot technical issues, and support the technical execution of live newscasts. This position reports jointly to the Operations Manager and Engineering Director and requires schedule flexibility, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Master Control Operations
  • Monitor multiple television program streams to ensure accurate, high-quality on-air presentation.
  • Coordinate live and recorded programming for broadcast.
  • Execute, edit, and maintain automation playlists.
  • Operate Florical automation and related broadcast systems.
  • Acquire, ingest, and prepare programming, commercials, and promotional content for air.
  • Monitor video, audio, captioning, and signal quality across multiple channels.
  • Maintain FCC compliance, EAS monitoring, and required broadcast logs.
  • Monitor transmitter status and document operational readings.
  • Identify, troubleshoot, and report technical issues affecting on-air operations.
  • Follow established Standard Operating Procedures to ensure consistent and reliable broadcasts.

Live Newscast Directing
  • Direct live and recorded newscasts using automated production systems.
  • Collaborate closely with producers, technical staff, engineering, and newsroom personnel to execute clean, accurate broadcasts.
  • Call and execute newscasts with precision while maintaining production quality.
  • Learn and operate automation and associated production equipment through on-the-job training.
  • Maintain composure and make sound decisions during breaking news and live production situations.

Broadcast Automation & Technical Operations
  • Operate and troubleshoot broadcast automation systems, video servers, routing systems, and related production equipment.
  • Work with systems including Florical Automation, ENPS, Bitcentral, VIZ RT graphics, Harmonic video servers, and other broadcast technologies.
  • Assist Engineering with operational troubleshooting and equipment monitoring when necessary.
  • Maintain a strong understanding of broadcast workflows and automation-driven production environments.

Studio Operations
  • Occasionally assist with studio operations as scheduling requires.
  • Support robotic camera operations, studio setup, and production equipment during live broadcasts.
  • Assist with general production support and maintain a clean, organized control room and studio environment.

Qualifications
  • Strong computer skills, including Windows-based applications and broadcast software.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to multitask and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced live production environment.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to quickly identify and resolve technical issues under pressure.
  • Willingness to work flexible schedules, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
  • Dependable attendance and reliable transportation.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in television Master Control operations or live television production.
  • Experience with broadcast automation systems.
  • Familiarity with Florical Automation, ENPS, Bitcentral, VIZ RT, Imagine Nexio video servers, and related broadcast systems.
  • Understanding of FCC regulations, EAS procedures, and broadcast compliance.
  • Knowledge of production switchers, routing systems, video servers, and television transmission systems.
  • Military broadcast or related technical experience is welcomed and encouraged.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to climb ladders up to 15 feet when required.
  • Ability to sit, stand, and work extended periods in a live broadcast environment.
  • Ability to respond quickly during live broadcasts and emergency situations.

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 $42,000 and $49,000. 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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