Audio Operator at eMedia Investments

Live Broadcast Audio Mixing

• Operate and manage audio mixing consoles for live and pre-recorded news bulletins and other broadcast productions.
• Configure fader strips, hybrid units, gain structures, auxiliary channels and other audio inputs in accordance with production requirements.
• Conduct required audio, sync, tone, colour bar, clapperboard, lip-sync and signal-generator tests before transmission.
• Balance microphones, music, effects, packages, hybrid feeds and external audio sources to achieve clear and consistent programme output.
• Coordinate audio cues with the Technical Director, Vision Mixer, Producer and other relevant production personnel.
• Monitor programme output continuously and adjust levels dynamically to prevent distortion, audio dropouts, dead air or other avoidable audio disruptions.
• Ensure audio is fully tested, operationally ready and compliant with required broadcast standards before going to air.

On-Location/Outside Broadcasts (OB)

• Set up, operate and monitor field audio systems for outside broadcasts, live events and on-location productions.
• Conduct comprehensive equipment checks before assignments, including microphones, transmitters, receivers, batteries, cabling and associated equipment.
• Configure microphones, frequencies, channel routing and auxiliary channels to meet production requirements.
• Conduct audio, sync, lip-sync and clapperboard tests with camera operators, Technical Directors and remote engineering teams before production.
• Set up and test hybrid, remote feed and communication systems to ensure reliable audio connectivity.
• Monitor and adjust audio levels throughout live outside broadcasts to maintain clarity, balance and consistency.
• Respond promptly to changing production requirements and resolve audio issues to minimise disruption to live coverage.

Audio Signal Management

• Monitor all active audio channels, programme outputs, hybrid feeds and external sources throughout production.
• Configure and adjust gain, EQ, auxiliary sends and other audio parameters to achieve required audio quality.
• Dynamically adjust audio levels in response to editorial, production and programme changes.
• Ensure audio sources are correctly routed and available for transmission or recording.
• Identify and address signal degradation, interference, distortion, dropouts and other audio quality issues promptly.
• Maintain consistent audio quality across different programme elements, contributors, locations and platforms.
• Conduct quality checks to ensure audio output meets established technical and broadcast requirements.

Equipment Management and Technical Maintenance

• Maintain studio and field audio equipment in operational and broadcast ready condition.
• Conduct routine equipment checks and ensure required equipment, spares and batteries are available before production.
• Report equipment faults, damage and servicing requirements promptly through the appropriate channels.
• Maintain accurate records and logs of technical faults, equipment issues and corrective actions.
• Coordinate with relevant technical support teams to facilitate timely repair, servicing and replacement of equipment.
• Ensure equipment is handled, stored, transported and used responsibly to minimise damage, loss and unnecessary downtime.
• Support the identification of equipment and technology requirements that may improve audio quality and operational efficiency.

Compliance and Safety & Operational Standards

• Comply consistently with applicable broadcast, technical, copyright, health and safety requirements and organisational policies.
• Ensure audio production practices and equipment operation meet established technical and operational standards.
• Apply approved procedures for the safe setup, operation, transportation and storage of audio equipment.
• Conduct appropriate equipment and operational checks to identify and mitigate potential safety or technical risks.
• Report incidents, hazards, technical failures and compliance concerns promptly through established procedures.
• Participate in required compliance, health and safety and technical training initiatives.
• Maintain professional and responsible working practices across studio, field and outside broadcast environments.

Stakeholder Engagement & Production Collaboration

• Build and maintain effective working relationships with Technical Directors, Producers, Executive Producers, Vision Mixers, Camera Operators, Engineers and other production stakeholders.
• Communicate audio requirements, technical limitations and operational changes clearly and within required timeframes.
• Collaborate with production and editorial teams to ensure audio requirements are understood and effectively implemented.
• Respond constructively to production changes, editorial requirements and technical direction during live and recorded productions.
• Participate actively in production planning, technical briefings and post production or post-broadcast discussions where required.
• Provide accurate technical feedback and recommendations to support improved production quality and operational performance.
• Prepare clear and accurate reports on significant technical issues, incidents, equipment faults and operational matters when required.

Personal Development

• Develop, implement and maintain an Individual Development Plan aligned with role requirements and professional objectives.
• Participate in relevant learning and development initiatives to strengthen technical, broadcast and production competencies.
• Maintain current knowledge of audio technology, broadcast standards, production techniques and industry developments.
• Participate in peer learning, coaching, mentoring and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Apply newly acquired knowledge and technical skills to improve audio quality and operational effectiveness.
• Seek and implement constructive feedback to improve technical and professional performance.
• Demonstrate an ongoing commitment to continuous learning, professional development and technical excellence.

Budget Compliance

• Comply with work rules, standards and methods. Take care to minimise waste.
• Comply consistently with organisational work practices, standards, financial controls and resource management requirements.
• Use audio equipment, consumables and other production resources responsibly and efficiently.
• Minimise unnecessary waste, damage, loss and avoidable expenditure.
• Ensure equipment and operational resources are used in accordance with approved procedures and requirements.
• Identify opportunities to improve resource utilisation and operational efficiency without compromising production quality.
• Support responsible planning and use of resources for studio, field and outside broadcast requirements.
• Contribute to the efficient delivery of production objectives within approved operational and financial parameters.

Requirements

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• National Senior Certificate (NQF Level 4) - Essential
• National Diploma in Sound Engineering, Audio Technology, Audio Production, Broadcasting or a related field (NQF Level 6) - Essential

Experience

• Broadcast audio mixing - Operational - 3 years - Essential

Competencies

• Drivers License - Code B - Essential

Technology Proficiency

• Microsoft Office Suite - Basic
• Audio Desk mixing - Essential

Language Proficiency

• English - Advanced

Technical / Job Specific Competencies

• Adaptability
• Building Strategic Working Relationships
• Initiating Action
• Managing Conflict
• Stress Tolerance