Nexstar Media Group’s Chicago operation (WGN-TV, NewsNation, Antenna TV, and Rewind TV) is seeking a hands-on, technically advanced Engineering Maintenance Department Manager to lead a team of highly skilled maintenance engineers supporting our mission-critical broadcast operation. This role requires a hybrid of engineering expertise, IT competency, and leadership excellence. The ideal candidate will be fluent in both broadcast and IT technologies and capable of managing complex, dynamic systems with a focus on preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and long-term system health.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

Lead and mentor the Maintenance Engineering team, including work prioritization, performance management, and professional developmentDelegate tasks appropriately to align strengths of the team with operational needsCommunicate effectively across departments and with senior leadershipCollaborate closely with IT Manager and Installations teams to ensure system integrity and coordinated effortsOversee scheduling and support for studio productions, remote broadcasts, and special projects

Technical Oversight

Provide hands-on support and guidance for troubleshooting studio and field equipment, including HD/SDI/ASI signal chains and RF pathsEnsure regular preventive maintenance and repair of studio equipment: LED walls, controllers, robotic cameras, anchor desk monitors, jib arms, Steadicams, Clear-Com systems, and prompter monitorsMaintain operational readiness of all in-studio systems, including mechanical and electromechanical componentsInterpret and work from signal flow diagrams, schematics, and AutoCAD engineering drawingsManage LED wall systems including configuration and calibration across multiple studios

Systems & Infrastructure

Oversee the integration, maintenance, and operation of server-based broadcast systems and control room gearMonitor and maintain broadcast-related IT infrastructure, including networking, storage, and hardware platformsTroubleshoot IP connectivity issues across devices, control systems, and serversSupport critical signal distribution systems including satellite downlinks, RF transmission, and IP-based streamingSupport software-defined workflows and automation platforms used throughout the facility

Collaboration & Communication

Serve as a liaison between engineering, operations, creative services, and corporate support teamsWork closely with IT to ensure alignment in overlapping responsibilities including network configuration, server maintenance, and system alertingEscalate and resolve technical issues swiftly to avoid impact on live production and distribution

Required Experience & Skills

Proven leadership experience in a broadcast engineering or maintenance department, ideally in a major market or national network environmentStrong working knowledge of HD/SDI/ASI standards, signal flow, IP routing, and broadcast networkingHands-on experience with broadcast robotics, LED displays, control room technology, and studio camera systemsExperience working with server operating systems (Windows/Linux), RAID storage systems, and remote access toolsProficient in reading and interpreting AutoCAD and schematic diagramsAbility to troubleshoot mechanical and electronic systems under pressureFamiliarity with satellite systems and RF transmission paths is a strong plusExcellent communication skills, both written and verbal; ability to clearly explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Broadcast Technology, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience consideredMinimum 5–7 years of experience in a maintenance engineering or broadcast systems roleMinimum 2 years in a team leadership or supervisory roleExperience with represented employees preferred (IBEW 1220)

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, crawl under equipment, climb ladders, and perform hands-on work as neededManual dexterity to operate tools and test equipmentMust possess a valid driver’s license and safe driving record

Location & Schedule

Based at WGN-TV Studios, Chicago (approx. 7 miles from downtown)Occasional on-call availability for emergencies or off-hours maintenanceMust be willing to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays

Why Join Us?

This is a rare opportunity to lead a technically sophisticated, collaborative team that supports both a top-five television market and a rapidly growing national cable news network. We offer competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the ability to grow within one of the country’s largest media companies.

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Salary Range:

140K to 155K Annualized - commensurate with applicant's experience and skill level

Benefits: Our comprehensive benefits package includes, but not limited to, medical (with multiple plan options), dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) with company matching contributions, Paid Parental leave, life insurance and more.