Principal Technical Operator

This position sits within the Technology division of the South African Broadcasting Corporation and is central to ensuring that all broadcast clients, both internal and external, receive reliable operational support across every platform. The Principal Technical Operator is responsible for coordinating, planning, setting up, preparing, recording and playing out broadcast material to the expected standards, using the available facilities and equipment. The role is essentially a senior hands-on technical leadership position within a 24/7 on-air environment, requiring someone who can combine deep sound and video expertise with operational planning, project participation and team guidance.

Key responsibilities include contributing to the business unit strategy by providing operational input to line management, aligning with the corporate plan and target operating model. The incumbent will be involved in both capital and operational expenditure planning, helping to develop project scopes, operational designs, risk assessments, migration requirements and implementation plans. They must participate in Capex projects and system execution, commissioning and workflows to ensure that functional requirements are met and on-air disruptions are avoided. Financial accountability is also important, with duties covering proper investigation and motivation of budgets, accurate submission of Capex and Opex inputs, and ensuring that operational expenditure contributes to broadcast system sustainability.

A significant part of the role involves using specialised sound and video skills to generate alternative revenue streams, such as CD artist recordings, front-of-house sound, webinars and external live broadcasts, in line with the external tariff list. The Principal Technical Operator must design fit-for-purpose, innovative operational solutions in consultation with digital partners, and work to agreed targets for resource, equipment and facility availability. They are expected to maintain high service delivery standards, submit ad-hoc incidence fault reports, and provide accurate monthly reporting on deliverables, non-conformance and potential risks with suggested mitigations. Other duties include identifying and coordinating operational production requirements, transmitting audio and visual content in liaison with Main Control, planning and setting up facility equipment, operating cameras and Live View for news and external broadcasts, and ensuring comprehensive understanding of microphone placement and industry best practices. The role also covers field programming, recordings, mixing and front-of-house audio, as well as planning multi-layered drama productions with effects, music and multiple audio streams. The operator must monitor schedule changes, check sound and video quality, set up mix-minus and program audio desks, operate digital playout systems, and perform final audio-visual manipulation according to customer requirements. They must deliver production material on time, within scope and specification, contribute to procuring correct digital solutions, escalate risks with corrective treatment plans, and monitor adherence to occupational health and safety and company policies. Asset management is another key area, with a requirement to verify 95% of assets annually and effectively control all assets within the area, including outside broadcasts. Customer service is paramount, and the role includes providing operational assistance and guidance to clients, monitoring compliance with requests, and addressing non-conformance. The incumbent must also comply with performance management policies, sign annual performance agreements, undergo quarterly reviews, and conduct ongoing training, coaching and mentoring for team members.

To be considered, candidates need a Sound Engineering Certificate of one year or more, or a Film/Video Technology qualification, or a relevant equivalent. A Sound Engineering Diploma at NQF Level 6 would be an advantage. A valid C1 driver's licence with a PDP is required. Applicants must have at least eight years' experience in a broadcast environment, including a minimum of three years as a Senior Technical Operator, with relevant experience in digital sound and video within live, production and post-production settings. The role demands excellent hearing and eyesight with no colour blindness, physical fitness, strong communication skills, the ability to work in and lead a team, proficiency in MS Office, and the capacity to work under pressure and handle conflict. A willingness to work irregular hours and shifts is essential to sustain the 24/7 on-air facility environment.