Production Engineer

KCRW • Santa Monica, CA

1d

About The Position

KCRW is seeking a recording and audio engineer to support the station’s day-to-day programming and special projects. The Production Engineer works on live-to-air and pre-recorded material for broadcast and podcasts, recording, editing, and mixing daily, weekly, and monthly programming to time-sensitive deadlines. The role requires a strong music-recording background and demonstrated experience using large-format consoles in a front-of-house or studio capacity.

This is a full-time, non-exempt position reporting to the Production Operations Manager. It is represented by the SAG-AFTRA Bargaining Unit.

Requirements

• Experience working in a fast-paced studio or production environment.
• Experience recording and mixing music.
• An undergraduate degree in audio engineering, recording, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Proficiency with digital audio workstations.
• Experience operating broadcast consoles or supporting live production.
• Strong understanding of audio signal flow and troubleshooting.
• Ability to work accurately under tight deadlines.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings, weekends, or adjusted schedules to accommodate live broadcasts and special events.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently or with a team.
• Self-motivation and substantial studio experience in broadcast or recording workplaces.

Nice To Haves

• Pro Tools experience.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to balance individual tasks with broader project goals.
• Strong organizational, communication, creative, and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with Windows and macOS operating systems.
• Experience with broadcast automation systems, particularly RCS Zetta or similar platforms.
• Knowledge of FCC standards and obligations, including EAS requirements.
• Interest in new audio technologies and ways to improve production workflows.
• A passion for KCRW’s programming and an interest in NPR news, current affairs, music, and the arts.

Responsibilities

• Serve as an assistant or lead engineer for live and pre-recorded in-studio music sessions and events.
• Mix live bands for stereo broadcast and multitrack recording.
• Edit music performances and interviews in post-production for broadcast and digital distribution.
• Record, mix, and edit broadcast and podcast programming, news and music segments, commentaries, special features, program promos, and other audio projects as assigned.
• Engineer live radio broadcast productions as needed.
• Operate the broadcast console, manage audio sources, and execute live elements to support smooth and accurate on-air programming.
• Coordinate with hosts, producers, and board operators on live segments, transitions, and technical needs during broadcasts.
• Coordinate technical needs and execution for off-site recordings and broadcasts.
• Prepare, deliver, and properly label audio assets for broadcast, podcasts, video, and other distribution platforms.
• Set up, test, and maintain studio equipment for daily recording and production.
• Lead and support special projects from planning through completion.
• Troubleshoot technical issues, including during live broadcasts and other time-sensitive situations.
• Provide staff with guidance and technical assistance on hardware, software, and production workflows.

Benefits

• Sick leave award
• Vacation leave accrual
• Paid holidays
• Eligibility for health insurance, including medical, dental, vision, FSA, life, and AD&D
• 403(b) with company match
• SAG-AFTRA representation, which provides support and resources for industry workers

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time