Ingest / TX Controller (Fixed Term Contract)

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Job description

Purpose:

As an Ingest/TX Controller you will be responsible for the playlist continuity of Alaraby channels, making sure playlists are running smoothly, in close partnership with our Scheduling Dept.

TX/Playout is the final point of the broadcast chain prior to distribution, so those in transmission have ultimate control of the channel output. You should ensure that the Alaraby channels are ON AIR without interruption minimizing loss of broadcast services by rapidly identifying and implementing alternative methods to restore them.

You will handle the daily communication within the Playout (e.g. playlist deliveries/updates, live transmission preparation, graphic scheduling etc.).

You will also be responsible for reviewing all programmes and commercial content prior to broadcast (QC - quality control) and must ensure it meets with technical broadcast standards as well as rules set down by Alaraby. In addition, as Ingest controller, will be responsible for ingesting, previewing and verifying file transfers of on-air content to the main playout storage and remote stations.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Processing daily schedules and investigating missing items, liaising with internal and external clients to obtain and process material as required
• Ensure the modification of on air playlists as needed, including last minute changes, to ensure setup and execution of on air elements
• Follow program log to ascertain when the program will be recorded and aired
• React to automation warnings process
• Monitor automated workflows using MAM platform, intervening as required for manual processes and dealing with exceptions requiring manual handling/processing
• Maintain regular housekeeping of relevant systems, according to Alaraby standard operating procedures
• Manage and respond to any technical issues performing emergency restoration procedures of the transmissions
• Ingest, preview and verify file transfers of on-air content to multiple remote stations verifying and supplementing existing metadata
• Transfer material from video server to archive
• Supervise TX/RX feeds ensuring the on-air presence of the channels at all times and monitor all assigned station return feeds to ensure quality and continuity
• Processing the required tasks (including broadcast file management, registration, QC and database administration) according to current priorities
• QA and a video and audio spot check of HD/SD movies as well as spot check of promos
• Communicating issues that may affect the output of any channel to relevant parties and reacting to any potential issues in an effective manner
• A good understanding of IT networking infrastructures, file-based technologies and their implementation in a broadcast environment is preferable.
• A keen interest in broadcast technology and enthusiasm and willingness to learn with positive attitude, flexibility and excellent relationships with colleagues at all levels, focusing on teamwork.
• Ability to work without supervision and to handle responsibility. Work under pressure in a live news environment and availability to work on-call as needed, including evenings, overnights and weekends.

Qualification and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in relevant field or relevant practical experience
• Understanding of a live 24 hour broadcast environment
• Understanding of Broadcast media server workflows - Ingest - Transcoding - Video Compression
• Understanding of Ofcom guidelines
• English Language, verbal and written skills in Arabic is desirable