OPT Broadcast Engineer Jobs
Broadcast Engineer jobs on OPT are available across television networks, streaming platforms, and live production companies. Most roles qualify as STEM OPT extensions under electrical engineering or computer science classifications, giving you up to 36 months of work authorization without needing an immediate H-1B visa sponsor.
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The salary range for this position is $7,083.33 - $8,333.33 per month ($85,000 - $100,000 per year) depending upon qualifications and is non-negotiable. This position is scheduled to close on 8/27/2026 at 4: 00pm (PST).
KPBS serves the greater San Diego community with informative, cultural, entertaining and educational television, radio, and web programming. KPBS TV/FM is the public television and radio station for San Diego. Licensed to San Diego State University, KPBS supports and furthers the university’s educational and community service mission by informing, enlightening and empowering its audience. It does so not only by presenting national and locally produced programming of value to its San Diego audience, but also by producing programming about San Diego and its people for distribution nationwide.
The department of Engineering is responsible for the building and technical facilities of the station(s). This includes maintenance of all electronic media production equipment and service transmission(s). The Department also lends occasional technical support to other San Diego State University areas as required.
Due to the nature of KPBS broadcast operations, this position requires working on-site and outside normal business hours (including overnight, nights and weekends) as needed. Ability to drive station owned vehicles is required. Position may require lifting and transporting heavy equipment, material and supplies.
Perks you'll enjoy as a member of #teamKPBS:
- Working on a college campus & in public media: Access to campus facilities and staff discounts, farmer's market Tuesday's, tons of eateries, community events, entertainment
- Casual work attire
- Paid time off on your birthday (can be taken on any day)
- 10 vacation days and 13 holidays off (4+ days off over winter break)
- Enjoy a 'beautiful day in the neighborhood' with local employee discounts
- Opportunity drawings to attend SDSU basketball games, local concerts and events
- Free wellness classes & programs
- Monthly pop-up events for staff
- Full benefits packages that are unmatched (medical, dental, vision, life)
- Sick leave accruals and paid leave options
- On-site childcare at a discounted rate
- Opportunities for continued learning and professional development
- Flexible spending account(s)
- Employee assistance program
- Matching and voluntary retirement savings plan
Responsibilities:
Under the general direction of the Director of Engineering and Operations, the Broadcast Engineer is responsible for the maintenance, repair and performance of complex television, radio and digital broadcast systems. Assisting with installation and routine maintenance of broadcast equipment and systems, this position will implement approved maintenance plans and procedures for equipment recommended by manufacturers, and maintain standard operating procedures.
As a member of the Engineering team, the Broadcast Engineer is responsible for maintaining TV, Radio and Internet Media audio/video broadcasting, data-casting, and computer equipment used in the origination and reception of radio and television signals, insuring that the transmissions with all associated ancillary data adhere to applicable Federal Communication Commission regulations, industry standards and guidelines. The following information is intended to be representative of the work performed by incumbents in this position and is not all-inclusive. The omission of a specific duty or responsibility will not preclude it from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical extension of position responsibilities. Job descriptions may be changed at any time based on the needs of the department.
The Broadcast Engineer is responsible for, but is not limited to:
Equipment Operations & Maintenance 95%
- Maintain all technical aspects of TV, Radio and Streaming broadcast operations, including studios, control rooms, transmission systems, and field equipment.
- Design, install, configure, maintain and troubleshoot broadcast systems such as automation servers, routing switchers, audio boards, intercom systems, and transmitter facilities.
- Respond to station emergencies resulting from equipment or facility failures.
- Maintain detailed inventory and repair records.
- Makes purchase recommendations for equipment, components and supplies.
- Be in constant communication with department supervisors and team members to exchange information, address concerns, complete assignments and work collaboratively on various projects as they arise.
Other Duties and Responsibilities as Assigned 5%
Qualifications
Knowledge and Abilities
- Demonstrated experience in troubleshooting and repairing broadcast equipment
- Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, coordinate, and perform work in various situations that requires the ability to adapt where numerous and diverse demands are involved in a high stress environment
- Demonstrated expertise in troubleshooting and problem solving
- Knowledge of and ability to set up remote broadcasting capability
- Working knowledge of digital file formats used in broadcasting and internet delivery
- Proven ability to provide excellent customer service and clear communication
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
- Ability to interact effectively with co-workers, clients
- Ability to understand and follow posted work rules and procedures
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to relate well to others within the project environment
- Ability to work outside normal working hours, including nights, weekends, holidays and outside normal working hours, when necessary; respond to emergencies in the event of system failures
- Ability to demonstrate a high level of cross-cultural sensitivity
- Ability to drive a station owned vehicle and possess a valid license
- Ability to lift and transport heavy equipment, material and supplies
Minimum Education
Bachelor’s degree in related field or combination of technical training and experience
Minimum Experience
Three years of progressively responsible experience as audiovisual engineer, including all phases of operation and maintenance of television facilities and broadcast studios
Preferred Qualifications
- SBE certification is highly desirable
- Knowledge of computer networks and systems used in broadcasting
- Cisco or CompTIA networking certifications
- Knowledge of AutoCad software
- Knowledge of RF transmission systems
Additional Applicant Information:
Candidate must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire.
Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on background check results (including a criminal record check).
San Diego State University Research Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU Research Foundation provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin or any other categories protected by federal or state law.
Employment decisions are based on an individual’s qualifications as they relate to the job under consideration. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every employee has equal access to resources and support.
SDSU Research Foundation complies with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), and other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws including grant or contract terms and conditions related to funded program activities. Further, the SDSU Research Foundation maintains a Nondiscrimination Policy that prohibits discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all programs, policies, and practices.
SDSU Research Foundation makes all employment decisions including, but not limited to, applicant screening, hiring, promotion, demotion, compensation, benefits, disciplinary actions, and terminations on the basis of merit.
Overview:
The salary range for this position is $7,083.33 - $8,333.33 per month ($85,000 - $100,000 per year) depending upon qualifications and is non-negotiable. This position is scheduled to close on 8/27/2026 at 4: 00pm (PST).
KPBS serves the greater San Diego community with informative, cultural, entertaining and educational television, radio, and web programming. KPBS TV/FM is the public television and radio station for San Diego. Licensed to San Diego State University, KPBS supports and furthers the university’s educational and community service mission by informing, enlightening and empowering its audience. It does so not only by presenting national and locally produced programming of value to its San Diego audience, but also by producing programming about San Diego and its people for distribution nationwide.
The department of Engineering is responsible for the building and technical facilities of the station(s). This includes maintenance of all electronic media production equipment and service transmission(s). The Department also lends occasional technical support to other San Diego State University areas as required.
Due to the nature of KPBS broadcast operations, this position requires working on-site and outside normal business hours (including overnight, nights and weekends) as needed. Ability to drive station owned vehicles is required. Position may require lifting and transporting heavy equipment, material and supplies.
Perks you'll enjoy as a member of #teamKPBS:
- Working on a college campus & in public media: Access to campus facilities and staff discounts, farmer's market Tuesday's, tons of eateries, community events, entertainment
- Casual work attire
- Paid time off on your birthday (can be taken on any day)
- 10 vacation days and 13 holidays off (4+ days off over winter break)
- Enjoy a 'beautiful day in the neighborhood' with local employee discounts
- Opportunity drawings to attend SDSU basketball games, local concerts and events
- Free wellness classes & programs
- Monthly pop-up events for staff
- Full benefits packages that are unmatched (medical, dental, vision, life)
- Sick leave accruals and paid leave options
- On-site childcare at a discounted rate
- Opportunities for continued learning and professional development
- Flexible spending account(s)
- Employee assistance program
- Matching and voluntary retirement savings plan
Responsibilities:
Under the general direction of the Director of Engineering and Operations, the Broadcast Engineer is responsible for the maintenance, repair and performance of complex television, radio and digital broadcast systems. Assisting with installation and routine maintenance of broadcast equipment and systems, this position will implement approved maintenance plans and procedures for equipment recommended by manufacturers, and maintain standard operating procedures.
As a member of the Engineering team, the Broadcast Engineer is responsible for maintaining TV, Radio and Internet Media audio/video broadcasting, data-casting, and computer equipment used in the origination and reception of radio and television signals, insuring that the transmissions with all associated ancillary data adhere to applicable Federal Communication Commission regulations, industry standards and guidelines. The following information is intended to be representative of the work performed by incumbents in this position and is not all-inclusive. The omission of a specific duty or responsibility will not preclude it from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical extension of position responsibilities. Job descriptions may be changed at any time based on the needs of the department.
The Broadcast Engineer is responsible for, but is not limited to:
Equipment Operations & Maintenance 95%
- Maintain all technical aspects of TV, Radio and Streaming broadcast operations, including studios, control rooms, transmission systems, and field equipment.
- Design, install, configure, maintain and troubleshoot broadcast systems such as automation servers, routing switchers, audio boards, intercom systems, and transmitter facilities.
- Respond to station emergencies resulting from equipment or facility failures.
- Maintain detailed inventory and repair records.
- Makes purchase recommendations for equipment, components and supplies.
- Be in constant communication with department supervisors and team members to exchange information, address concerns, complete assignments and work collaboratively on various projects as they arise.
Other Duties and Responsibilities as Assigned 5%
Qualifications
Knowledge and Abilities
- Demonstrated experience in troubleshooting and repairing broadcast equipment
- Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, coordinate, and perform work in various situations that requires the ability to adapt where numerous and diverse demands are involved in a high stress environment
- Demonstrated expertise in troubleshooting and problem solving
- Knowledge of and ability to set up remote broadcasting capability
- Working knowledge of digital file formats used in broadcasting and internet delivery
- Proven ability to provide excellent customer service and clear communication
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
- Ability to interact effectively with co-workers, clients
- Ability to understand and follow posted work rules and procedures
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to relate well to others within the project environment
- Ability to work outside normal working hours, including nights, weekends, holidays and outside normal working hours, when necessary; respond to emergencies in the event of system failures
- Ability to demonstrate a high level of cross-cultural sensitivity
- Ability to drive a station owned vehicle and possess a valid license
- Ability to lift and transport heavy equipment, material and supplies
Minimum Education
Bachelor’s degree in related field or combination of technical training and experience
Minimum Experience
Three years of progressively responsible experience as audiovisual engineer, including all phases of operation and maintenance of television facilities and broadcast studios
Preferred Qualifications
- SBE certification is highly desirable
- Knowledge of computer networks and systems used in broadcasting
- Cisco or CompTIA networking certifications
- Knowledge of AutoCad software
- Knowledge of RF transmission systems
Additional Applicant Information:
Candidate must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire.
Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on background check results (including a criminal record check).
San Diego State University Research Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU Research Foundation provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin or any other categories protected by federal or state law.
Employment decisions are based on an individual’s qualifications as they relate to the job under consideration. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every employee has equal access to resources and support.
SDSU Research Foundation complies with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), and other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws including grant or contract terms and conditions related to funded program activities. Further, the SDSU Research Foundation maintains a Nondiscrimination Policy that prohibits discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all programs, policies, and practices.
SDSU Research Foundation makes all employment decisions including, but not limited to, applicant screening, hiring, promotion, demotion, compensation, benefits, disciplinary actions, and terminations on the basis of merit.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Broadcast Engineer
Target employers with active broadcast infrastructure
Television networks, sports broadcasters, and streaming companies maintain large technical teams and sponsor visas regularly. These employers budget for engineering talent and are more likely to support OPT extensions and future H-1B visa petitions than smaller production houses.
Confirm your role qualifies for STEM OPT extension
Broadcast Engineer roles typically fall under CIP codes for electrical engineering or computer engineering. Confirm with your DSO before accepting an offer. A qualifying classification gives you 24 additional months beyond standard OPT, significantly extending your runway.
Emphasize hands-on technical skills in your application
Employers prioritize candidates who can operate broadcast systems, signal routing equipment, and live production infrastructure. List specific platforms you've worked with, whether from internships, student productions, or campus broadcast labs, to stand out from general candidates.
Apply to employers before your OPT start date
Broadcast Engineer hiring cycles can be slow, especially at large networks with structured onboarding. Start applications at least three months before your OPT authorization begins so an offer and E-Verify enrollment can be processed without gaps in authorization.
Understand the E-Verify requirement for STEM OPT
To work on a STEM OPT extension, your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify. Confirm this before signing an offer letter. Most major broadcasters and media companies already participate, but smaller production vendors sometimes do not.
Use your university's broadcast facilities to build experience
Student television stations, campus radio, and media production programs give you verifiable experience with professional broadcast equipment. Hiring managers in this field value demonstrated hands-on exposure, and campus work counts toward your technical portfolio.
Broadcast Engineer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Broadcast Engineer jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Many Broadcast Engineer roles qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, depending on how your degree and job duties are classified. Roles tied to electrical engineering, computer engineering, or telecommunications systems typically qualify. You'll need to confirm with your DSO that your degree's CIP code aligns with the position before applying for the extension.
How do I find Broadcast Engineer jobs that sponsor OPT students?
Migrate Mate filters job listings specifically for OPT-eligible candidates, making it straightforward to identify Broadcast Engineer roles at employers willing to sponsor. Rather than sorting through general job boards where sponsorship status is unclear, Migrate Mate surfaces positions from companies already open to hiring international students on work authorization.
Can I work as a Broadcast Engineer on day-one OPT without a STEM extension?
Yes. Standard OPT authorization allows you to work full-time as a Broadcast Engineer for up to 12 months after graduation. Your employer must enroll in E-Verify regardless of whether you're on standard OPT or a STEM extension. Make sure your job offer is in a field directly related to your degree to maintain valid OPT status.
What types of employers hire Broadcast Engineers on OPT?
Television networks, cable companies, streaming platforms, live sports broadcasters, and post-production facilities all hire Broadcast Engineers. Government broadcasters and public media organizations also hire in this role. Employers with large technical infrastructure teams tend to have more experience navigating OPT paperwork and are generally more comfortable sponsoring international candidates.
What happens to my OPT status if my Broadcast Engineer contract ends between projects?
OPT allows up to 90 days of unemployment for standard OPT and 150 days for STEM OPT, cumulative across your entire authorization period. Short gaps between broadcast contracts are permissible, but you must report employment changes to your DSO promptly. Extended gaps beyond the unemployment limits can invalidate your OPT status, so securing your next role quickly matters.