Master Control Operator

Associated Press • Washington, DC, US • 2w ago

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world's population sees AP journalism every day.

Why this role matters:

The Associated Press is seeking a part-time Master Control Room Operator to join its Washington, DC broadcast operations team. This onsite role is responsible for supporting live news, video distribution, and broadcast workflows in a fast-paced Master Control Room environment.

The successful candidate will help support AP’s live operations across News, AP Direct, Live Choice and AP 360, ensuring video and audio signals are monitored, routed, recorded and delivered reliably for internal teams and external customers.

As a Master Control Room Operator, you will play a key role in maintaining the quality and reliability of AP’s live broadcast and distribution operations. You will work with internal departments, external clients, engineering teams and global transmission systems to support breaking news coverage and scheduled broadcast activity.

This is an individually contributing role and will report directly to our Video Operations Manager.

What you will do:

Monitor video and audio signals to ensure consistent quality and uninterrupted service

Route, switch and coordinate internal and external video sources throughout AP’s Washington operations and to external destinations

Record and play back video material using server-based systems in line with ScheduALL bookings

Support live operations for News, AP Direct, Live Choice and AP 360

Work with file-based video workflows, video servers and broadcast routing systems

Support national and international fiber, satellite and IP-based transmission workflows

Assist with satellite operations, including uplinks, downlinks and receiver management

Understand and follow AP’s global distribution, backhaul and backup procedures

Identify technical faults, escalate issues to engineering and communicate service disruptions to affected teams

Provide professional, courteous support to internal departments and external clients

Maintain a clean, safe and organized Master Control Room environment

Follow AP health, safety and fire policies, including mandatory training and updates

Perform other related duties as assigned by the line manager

Who you are:

At least two years of experience in a broadcast, master control, transmission or similar technical operations environment

Working knowledge of video and audio signal monitoring, routing and distribution

Familiarity with file-based video workflows and server-based recording/playback

Understanding of fiber, satellite and IP networks used in broadcast operations

Knowledge of television principles, live production workflows and broadcast standards

Strong IT literacy and confidence working with technical systems

Ability to work in a 24/7 operation, including weekends, holidays and non-standard hours

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Attention to detail, technical confidence and the ability to remain calm and organized under pressure

Proactive, reliable and willing to learn

A collaborative approach and commitment to supporting team operations.

Formal broadcast or technical qualifications are desirable but not required

Advanced-level professional competency in written and spoken English is required

Location:

This position will require you to work in our Washington, D.C. bureau on an as needed basis.

Why join us:

A mission-driven, inclusive environment focused on both individual and collective success.

Opportunities for professional development to help you reach your career goals.

Access to tools, mentorship, and resources tailored to elevate your proficiency and contributions.

Salary & Benefits: 

The anticipated hourly salary range for this position is $45-$55/hour based on a candidate’s skills, qualifications and location.

Application deadline is June 19, 2026, at 11:59p.m. ET.

AP seeks to build an inclusive organization grounded in respect for differences. We support all aspects of diversity and provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a veteran, or other characteristic protected by law.