WMRA Public Radio at James Madison University is accepting applications for a Chief Engineer. WMRA is Harrisonburg’s local NPR affiliate, with broadcast facilities serving the Shenandoah Valley, Charlottesville, Winchester, Lexington, and Farmville, Virginia. WMRA and sister station WEMC are supported by the local community and are recognized for quality programming. WMRA is licensed to James Madison University, and all staff are employees of the university. More information about the station is at wmra.org.
WMRA is committed to ensuring that its workforce and governing boards reflect the diversity found in the communities it serves. Central to WMRA’s mission, vision and values is maintaining a governing and workplace environment which recognizes and celebrates the power of diversity. WMRA strives to create and foster a supportive environment in which all individuals can be successful and reach his or her full potential within the organization.
All applicants must apply through James Madison University's JobLink Site: https://joblink.jmu.edu/postings/7914
Duties and Responsibilities
Management of the broadcast-specific aspects of WMRA’s physical plant including planning and budgetary functions, administering leased properties, compliance with FCC technical regulations, and acting as liaison with JMU technical support groups.
Serve as Chief Operator of entire broadcast plant (including student station WXJM). Ensure that the stations are maintained and operate in compliance with FCC rules and regulations. Keep current with FCC actions, applications, and rulemakings.
- Manage the design, installation, modification, and repair of WMRA’s broadcast plant. Responsibilities extend from routine maintenance to on-call emergency repairs.
- Investigate, plan, design, procure, and install additional or revised broadcast and computing platforms.
- Serve as liaison with JMU Information Technology personnel. Implement strategies that result in the cost-effective, full utilization of JMU services whenever possible.
Qualifications
- Experience with satellite systems operation, microwave STL operation, high power RF system design and maintenance.
- Demonstrated experience in upgrading, managing, and maintaining transmitter systems, computer networks, and information technology systems in a complex RF technology environment.
- FCC General Radio Telephone License and/or commensurate SBE Certification.
- Familiarity with FCC regulations for noncommercial stations.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex technical projects, finances, and resources.
- Excellent organizational skills.
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity, access, and inclusion.